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Abstract

A membrane processing system for subjecting solid support membranes used in the analysis and investigation of membrane bound specimens, such as molecules and molecule fragments of DNA and RNA, includes a flexible wall jacket, a membrane support for supporting the membrane within the jacket, and a frame upon which the jacket is mounted for processing. The jacket includes an open end through which the membrane support is inserted and fluid ports for introducing and removing fluid from the interior of the jacket. The membrane support is defined by sheets of open weave fabric that support the membrane to define a multitude of fluid pathways across the opposite surfaces of the membrane and also define lateral distribution channels on opposite edges of the membrane support. The frame includes attachment points for attachment to the jacket and a resilient clamp allows convenient sealing of the open end of the jacket prior to the introduction and removal of treatment fluids. The treatment fluids may be introduced into the jacket by connecting one fluid port to a vacuum source to create a below ambient pressure in the jacket and by introducing a treatment fluid through the other port. The fluid flows through the numerous fluid pathways on the opposite surfaces of the membrane to effect time and cost efficient treatment of the membrane.

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First Claim