Systems and methods for fluorescence detection with a movable detection module
First Claim
1. A fluorescence detection apparatus for analyzing samples located in a plurality of wells in a thermal cycler, the apparatus comprising:
- a support structure attachable to the thermal cycler; and
a detection module movably mountable on the support structure, the detection module including;
an excitation light generator disposed within the detection module; and
an emission light detector disposed within the detection module;
wherein, when the support structure is attached to the thermal cycler and the detection module is mounted on the support structure, the detection module is movable so as to be positioned in optical communication with different ones of the plurality of wells.
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Abstract
A fluorescence detection apparatus for analyzing samples located in a plurality of wells in a thermal cycler and methods of use are provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a support structure attachable to the thermal cycler and a detection module movably mountable on the support structure. The detection module includes one or more channels, each having an excitation light generator and an emission light detector both disposed within the detection module. When the support structure is attached to the thermal cycler and the detection module is mounted on the support structure, the detection module is movable so as to be positioned in optical communication with different ones of the plurality of wells. The detection module is removable from the support structure to allow easy replacement.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A fluorescence detection apparatus for analyzing samples located in a plurality of wells in a thermal cycler, the apparatus comprising:
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a support structure attachable to the thermal cycler; and
a detection module movably mountable on the support structure, the detection module including;
an excitation light generator disposed within the detection module; and
an emission light detector disposed within the detection module;
wherein, when the support structure is attached to the thermal cycler and the detection module is mounted on the support structure, the detection module is movable so as to be positioned in optical communication with different ones of the plurality of wells. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
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13. A method for detecting the presence of a target molecule in a solution, the method comprising:
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preparing a plurality of samples, each containing a fluorescent probe adapted to bind to a target molecule;
placing each sample in a respective one of a plurality of sample wells of a thermal cycler instrument, the thermal cycler instrument having a detection module movably mounted therein, the detection module including an excitation/detection channel, the excitation/detection channel including an excitation light generator disposed within the detection module and an emission light detector disposed within the detection module;
stimulating a reaction using the thermal cycler instrument; and
scanning the plurality of sample wells to detect a fluorescent response by moving the detection module and activating the excitation/detection channel, wherein during the step of scanning, the detection module is moved such that the excitation/detection channel is sequentially positioned in optical communication with each of the plurality of sample wells. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification