Importance

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Abstract

A cell isolating device and method is provided to concentrate or isolate cells with specific characteristics from a mixture of different cell types. One embodiment may comprise two subtypes of antibodies that are directly conjugated to biotin (Ab.sub.b) and conjugated to a fluorescent molecule (Ab.sub.f). The conjugated antibodies (Ab.sub.b+Ab.sub.f) bind to the target cells in a mixed cell suspension. The cell suspension is then passed over an immobilized avidin or streptavidin substrate on a glass microscope slide. The biotinylated target cells adhere to the avidin/streptavidin substrate, while the unbound cells are washed off and collected in a wicking member. Captured cells on the avidin/streptavidin substrate may then be visualized directly using a fluorescent microscope or detected and enumerated via an on-board fluorescent detection device. Additional chemicals and/or physical manipulation may then be applied to the device to release viable target cells for subsequent analysis.

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First Claim