BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
【Field of the invention】
【1】The present invention relates to a biomolecule extraction device
and method thereof. More specifically, it relates to a biomolecule extraction
device and method thereof that can enhance user’s convenience by simplifying the
process of extracting biomolecule such as protein or nucleic acid, etc., from
biomass such as tissue and cell and saving time spent. As the ratio of the surface
area of the sample to the amount of lysis buffer introduced is maximized, the
concentration of biomolecule extraction is increased and the amount of buffer
used is minimized. The present invention can also smoothly perform efficient
testing without an extra device or equipment by allowing constant discharge of the
extracted sample, and a method thereof.
【Description of Related Art】
【2】Cell lysis refers to a phenomenon where a cell membrane is
ruptured and cell contents (cytoplasma) are exposed as a cell dissolves. Such
cell lysis is a primary process for cell analysis and protein purification, which is
widely used not only to extract/separate protein, but also to separate nucleic acid
such as DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA (ribonucleic acid) prior to an
amplification process such as the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) used in
molecular biology and molecular diagnostics, etc.
【3】Cell lysis methods for cell disruption largely include optical,
acoustic, electrical and mechanical methods. Mostly, the methods are carried out
in a form applying external force and stress in various mechanical and physical
manner based on a lysis buffer.
【4】Optical cell lysis is a method destroying cells by irradiating laser
micropulse on the target cell to form cavitation bubbles and destroying cells as the
cavitation bubbles expand. Optical cell lysis has disadvantages that there is a
possibility for the cell and protein to be degenerated due to the heat abruptly
generated by applying a laser inside a specific cell or at a nearby location thereof,
and that a separate device for generating lasers should be added.
【5】Acoustic cell lysis is a method destroying cells by introducing a
cell solution or a suspension inside a chamber located in an ultrasonic water tank
and applying ultrasonic waves. It is difficult to obtain consistent results from
cell destruction using ultrasonic waves because it is difficult to form uniform
energy distribution of ultrasound waves, it takes a lot of time for cell destruction,
and the cell destruction using ultrasound waves may cause protein destruction or
deformation due to the heat generated.
【6】Electrical cell lysis is a method destroying cells by applying an
electric field to the cells to generate potential difference in cell membrane. It is
similar in a way to other cell lysis methods such as the freezing-thawing method,
3
heating method, osmotic pressure impact method, in terms of applying impact to
cell walls. However, these methods have problems that protein in the cells may
be damaged due to the thermal impact applied to the cells.
【7】Mechanical cell lysis uses presses, bead mills, etc. To be
specific, presses perform cell disruption by filling an empty cylindrical body made
of stainless steel often used in laboratory scale with cell paste, and extracting the
cells to atmospheric pressure through a needle valve on the bottom of the cylinder
under high pressure.
【8】High-speed bead mills comprise a grinding chamber filled with
small glass or iron beads (20~50 units), and grind cells with high shearing force
and impact force by rotating a circular disk or impeller attached to a driving shaft
by a motor and stirring the beads.
【9】Such mechanical cell lysis has problems that it is difficult to
apply the mechanical cell lysis to a small amount of samples, and expensive
equipment, large space, multi-step process and long processing time are required.
【10】Meanwhile, a homogenizer performs cell lysis and disruption by
having a user rotate a stick while filling an E-tube (Eppendorf-tube) or falcon
tubes of various capacities, etc. with a lysis buffer. In this regard, there may be
problems that in order to immerse a tape or disk for obtaining samples, a
relatively large amount of lysis buffer is required and the sample may splash out
or the buffer may overflow while rotating the stick.
【11】In addition, there are problems that in case of using the E-tube
(Eppendorf-tube) or Petri dish itself, in order to apply the lysis buffer to a
hydrophobic sample, a relatively large amount of buffer is required and additional
work such as several times of pipetting, etc. using tools such as a pipette is
required.
【12】Meanwhile, cell lysates according to cell lysis are widely used for
special protein detection tests (western blotting) or immune precipitation, etc., and
in case of extracting nucleic acid (DNA, RNA), they are applied to molecular
diagnostics and gene analysis, etc. using PCR or sequencing. The above
processes are performed by detecting the special protein itself or testing
interaction between molecules.
【13】Here, for cell lysis, it is preferable to have a sufficient amount of
biomolecule (protein or nucleic acid, etc.) product extracted from biomass, high
purification concentration, and no loss or deformation of the extract. For doing
so, an expensive protease inhibitor, etc. is used. Thus, since cell lysis of good
quality for biomass sample should be performed fast and analyzed immediately, it
would be necessary to simplify the process of extracting biomolecule and save
cost and time spent therefor.
【14】However, as mentioned above, the conventional biomolecule
extraction devices and methods thereof through cell lysis and disruption required
an extra device or equipment such as a centrifugal separator and pipette, etc. while
performing each steps. Plus, a complex process associated with the system had
to be performed, thereby requiring a lot of space, cost and time.
4
【15】Also, in case of using a tape or disk for obtaining samples, there
are problems that a lysis buffer where the sample can be immerged is required in
order to maximize the contact surface of the sample and that due to the decrease in
extraction concentration by applying a large amount of lysis buffer, a large
amount of samples, i.e., biomass needs to be collected and additional work of
chopping or dissociating the sample is required.
【16】This still leaves the problem of processing the residue which may
contaminate the environment and affect human safety, after extracting
biomolecule such as protein or nucleic acid from the sample.
【17】Thus, the necessity of a biomolecule extraction device has been
raised where user’s convenience can be enhanced by saving time and reducing
space in need, resulted from simplifying the process of extracting biomolecule
from biomass, and where consistent test results can be expected by minimizing
the damage of the extracted biomolecule and extracting at a relatively high
concentration while applying only a small amount of samples.
【18】Further, the biomolecule extraction device can not only increase
the concentration of biomolecule extracted and reduce the amount of buffer used
by minimizing dead space thereby maximizing the ratio of the surface area of the
sample to the amount of lysis buffer introduced, but can also efficiently and
smoothly perform testing by allowing constant discharge of the extracted sample.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
【Subject matter to be solved】
【19】The examples of the present invention are intended to simplify
the process of extracting biomolecule such as protein or nucleic acid, etc. from
biomass such as tissue and cell and save time and space spent therefor to enhance
user’s convenience.
【20】Also, the examples of the present invention are intended not only
to increase the concentration of biomolecule extracted and reduce the amount of
buffer used by minimizing dead space thereby maximizing the ratio of the surface
area of the sample to the amount of lysis buffer introduced.
【21】In addition, the examples of the present invention are intended to
provide a biomolecule extraction device and method thereof that can be
independently used without requiring an extra device or equipment to be applied,
minimize damage of the extracted biomolecule, and expect consistent test results
while applying only a small amount of samples.
【Means for solving subject matter】
【22】According to an aspect of one example in various applications of
the present invention, a biomolecule extraction device may be provided,
comprising an insertion part to which a sample containing collected biomass is
fixed, a body part which receives a lysis buffer inside and into which the insertion
part is inserted to extract biomolecule from the collected biomass, and at least one
5
discharge part provided at the insertion part or the body part.
【23】The insertion part comprises at least one fixing part to which the
sample is fixed.
【24】Also, the fixing part fixes the sample by adhesive bonding or
physical bonding.
【25】Adhesive bonding of the fixing part is performed by using the
adhesiveness present in the collected sample or applying an adhesive substance to
the fixing part.
【26】Here, at least part of the fixing part is in a bent curved shape.
【27】Physical bonding of the fixing part fixes the sample by insertion
bonding.
【28】At least part of the sample is fixed to the fixing part.
【29】The body part comprises a chamber having a predetermined
space formed inside for receiving the lysis buffer and into which the insertion part
is inserted and the lysis buffer is immersed.
【30】Here, the composition and component of the lysis buffer may
vary depending on the type of the biomolecule to be extracted.
【31】The biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiments
of the present invention further comprises a shielding film sealing the entrance of
the chamber wherein the lysis buffer is received in the chamber in a sealed
condition. In some cases, a lysis buffer of a certain amount required for a
separate disposable container may be provided in a sealed condition.
【32】Meanwhile, the body part further comprises an introduction part
guiding the insertion part to the chamber.
【33】Here, the insertion part comprises a sealing part formed in a form
corresponding to the introduction part and having a close contact with the inner
wall of the introduction part to seal the chamber.
【34】Also, the cross sections of the introduction part and the sealing
part are formed in an oval or circular shape.
【35】Also, the sealing part comprises a reinforcing rib for reinforcing
strength thereof.
【36】The discharge part comprises a discharge flow path and an
expanded discharge port for constantly discharging the sample.
【37】The discharge flow path has an inner diameter smaller than the
discharge port in order to minimize dead space.
【38】The biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiments
of the present invention may further comprise a sealing cap detachably sealing the
discharge part.
【39】The biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiments
of the present invention may further comprise a pressing part being formed at the
outer wall of the chamber and applying pressure allowing constant discharge of
6
the sample.
【40】Here, the pressing part is formed in an embossed form having a
thickness greater than that of the surrounding outer wall.
【41】Also, the biomolecule extraction device according to the
embodiments of the present invention may further comprise an engraved part
being formed around the pressing part and having a thickness smaller than the
surrounding outer wall.
【42】Here, a ratio between the surface area of the sample in contact
with the lysis buffer and the volume of the lysis buffer is from 0.4 to 9.15.
【43】According to another aspect of the present invention, the present
invention may provide a method for extracting biomolecule, comprising fixing a
sample containing collected biomass to an insertion part, inserting the insertion
part into the body part receiving lysis buffer inside, and discharging biomolecule
extracted from the biomass through a discharge part provided at any one of the
insertion part or the body part.
【44】According to another aspect of the present invention, the
extraction device comprises a chamber receiving a lysis buffer inside and an
insertion part being inserted inside the chamber together with the two tapes for
obtaining samples containing collected biomass which are adhered to the insertion
part while being separated from each other and facing each other, wherein the
non-adhesive surfaces of the two tapes for obtaining samples are respectively
adhered to both inner walls of the chamber and the lysis buffer can fill in the
space between the adhesive surfaces of the two tapes for obtaining samples.
【45】According to another aspect of the present invention, a tape for
obtaining samples containing collected biomass is inserted in the lysis buffer
received inside the chamber and the collected biomass is dissolved. A ratio
between the surface area of the tape for obtaining sample in contact with the lysis
buffer and the volume of the lysis buffer received inside the chamber may be from
0.4 to 9.15.
【Effect of the invention】
【46】The examples of the present invention are intended to simplify
the process of extracting biomolecule such as protein or nucleic acid, etc. from
biomass such as tissue and cell and save time and space spent therefor to enhance
user’s convenience.
【47】Also, the examples of the present invention are intended not only
to increase the concentration of biomolecule extracted and reduce the amount of
buffer used by minimizing dead space thereby maximizing the ratio of the surface
area of the sample to the amount of lysis buffer introduced.
【48】In addition, the examples of the present invention are intended to
provide a biomolecule extraction device and method thereof that can be
independently used without requiring an extra device or equipment to be applied,
minimize damage of the extracted biomolecule, and expect consistent test results
7
while applying only a small amount of samples.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
【49】Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the biomolecule extraction device
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
【50】Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the biomolecule
extraction device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
【51】Fig. 3 is a cut perspective view cutting the biomolecule extraction
device according to the embodiment of the present invention in the major axis
direction thereof.
【52】Fig. 4 is a cut perspective view cutting the insertion part of the
biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiment of the present
invention in the minor axis direction thereof.
【53】Fig. 5 is a cross sectional view illustrating the state of constant
discharge of the biomass lysate after inserting the insertion part of the
biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiment of the present
invention into the body part.
【54】Fig. 6 is a cross sectional view of A-A' of Fig. 4.
【55】Fig. 7 is a graph comparing the SA:V ratio of the biomolecule
extraction device according to the embodiment of the present invention with the
conventional methods.
【56】Fig. 8 is a graph comparing the extraction concentration of the
biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiment of the present
invention with the conventional methods.
【57】Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating variables for designing an
expanded discharge port for constant discharge after processing the sample.
【58】Fig. 10 illustrates perspective views and partial cross sectional
views of modifications examples of the pressing part of the biomolecule
extraction device according to the embodiment of the present invention, and
diagrams illustrating deformation of the inner walls of the chamber when pressed.
【59】Fig. 11 is process diagram illustrating the process of extracting
protein using the biomolecule extraction device suggested according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
【60】Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the biomolecule extraction device
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
【61】Fig. 13 is a cross sectional view of the biomolecule extraction
device according to another embodiment of the present invention.
【62】Fig. 14 is a plan view of the biomolecule extraction device
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
【63】Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, preferable
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embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. However, the
present invention is not limited to the embodiments described here, but may be
realized in other forms. In fact, the embodiments introduced here are provided
to complete the disclosure thoroughly and sufficiently deliver the idea of the
present invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art. Throughout the
specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same constitutional
elements.
【64】Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the biomolecule extraction device
according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an exploded
perspective view of the biomolecule extraction device according to the
embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is a cut perspective view cutting the
biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiment of the present
invention in the major axis direction thereof. Fig. 4 is a cut perspective view
cutting the insertion part of the biomolecule extraction device according to the
embodiment of the present invention in the minor axis direction. Fig. 5 is a cross
sectional view illustrating the state of constant discharge of the biomass lysate
after inserting the insertion part of the biomolecule extraction device according to
the embodiment of the present invention into the body part. Fig. 6 is a cross
sectional view of A-A' of Fig. 4. Fig. 7 is a graph comparing the SA:V ratio of
the biomolecule extraction device according to the embodiment of the present
invention with the conventional methods. Fig. 8 is a graph comparing the
extraction concentration of the biomolecule extraction device according to the
embodiment of the present invention with the conventional methods. Fig. 9 is a
diagram illustrating variables for designing an expanded discharge port for
constant discharge after processing the sample.
【65】Referring to Figs. 1~9, the biomolecule extraction device (1000)
according to an embodiment of the present invention may largely comprise an
insertion part (100) to which a sample containing collected biomass is fixed, a
body part (200) which receives a lysis buffer inside and into which the insertion
part (100) is inserted to extract biomolecule from the collected biomass, and at
least one discharge part (300) provided at the insertion part (100) or the body part
(200).
【66】The insertion part (100) may comprise at least one fixing part
(110, 120) to which the sample is fixed. The fixing part (110, 120) may fix the
sample by adhesive bonding or physical bonding, and the sample collecting
biomass may be properly applied, for example, to a tape or membrane, etc. having
an adhesive surface depending on the collection method.
【67】In case the fixing part (110, 120) fixes the sample by adhesive
bonding, a tape with an adhesive surface, for example, a tape for obtaining
samples (10) having an adhesive surface coated with an adhesive substance, etc.,
is used, and bonded to the fixing part using the adhesiveness left on the tape after
collecting sample. Alternatively, it may be configured to apply the adhesive
substance to the fixing part (110, 120) and fix a non-adhesive sample.
【68】In case the fixing part (110, 120) fixes the sample by physical
bonding, it can be fixed by insertion. This will be explained in another
9
embodiment.
【69】In the present embodiment, a tape for obtaining samples (10) is
used, and the insertion part (100) may comprise the fixing part (110, 120) adhered
by having at least part of the tape for obtaining samples (10) in contact.
【70】Here, the fixing part (110, 120) may comprise a first fixing part
(110) formed on the inner side and a second fixing part (120) formed on the outer
side of the first fixing part (100). The fixing part may comprise two of each of
the first fixing part (110) and the second fixing part (120) on the same plane in a
form extended perpendicularly downwards.
【71】Also, the two tapes for obtaining samples (10) may be adhered to
face each other with the first fixing part (110) and second fixing part (120)
interposed. The tape for obtaining samples (10) may be in a disk form. In fact,
it is possible to use products such as D-Squame disk manufactured by Cuderm of
USA.
【72】One side of the tape for obtaining samples (10) can be an
adhesive surface (12) and the other side can be a non-adhesive surface (14). If
the adhesive surface (12) of the tape for obtaining samples (10) is attached to and
then detached from the subject’s skin, skin tissue comprising dead skin cells is
collected by being attached to the adhesive surface (12), and protein can be
extracted using this.
【73】The two tapes for obtaining samples (10) containing collected
skin tissue as above may be attached and fixed so that the adhesive surfaces (12)
face each other as separated at a certain interval with the first fixing part (110) and
second fixing part (120) interposed. Here, since the tapes for obtaining samples
(10) are attached to be separated at a certain interval with the first fixing part
(110) and second fixing part (120) interposed, and this prevents the tapes for
obtaining samples (10) from being adhered to each other.
【74】The two tapes for obtaining samples (10) are separated from each
other as much as the thickness of the first fixing part (110) and second fixing part
(120). When the insertion part (10) is inserted into the body part (200), a lysis
buffer (20) fills in the space between the tapes for obtaining samples (10).
【75】Thus, the thickness of the fixing parts (110, 120) becomes a
separation distance between the two tapes for obtaining samples (10) and also a
parameter for determining the volume of the lysis buffer (20) to be introduced.
【76】Here, the first fixing part (110) and the second fixing part (120)
may have the same thickness or the first fixing part (110) positioned on the inner
side may have a thickness thinner than that of the second fixing part (120). In
case a distance spaced enough not to be adhered to each other due to the rigidity
of the tapes (10) is maintained, the first fixing part (110) may have a minimum
thickness or even may be removed. In this case, the two tapes for obtaining
samples (10) are spaced apart from each other by the thickness of the second
fixing part (120) positioned on the other side. The part of the second fixing part
(120) where the tape (10) is fixed has a size slightly greater than the outer
circumference of the tape (10), and is engraved by the thickness of the tape, so
10
that the insertion part (100) is not caught by protrusions of the tapes (10) or dead
region is not generated when the insertion part (100) is inserted into the chamber
(210) after the tapes (10) are fixed. Further, the first fixing part (110) positioned
on the inner side prevents the tapes for obtaining samples (10) from being adhered
to each other in their middle parts.
【77】The first fixing part (110) and the second fixing part (120) may
be made into a linear bar shape having a predetermined thickness, but in the
present embodiment, at least part of it is in a bent curved shape. By configuring
part of the first fixing part (110) and the second fixing part (120) to be in a curved
shape, a user can apply pressure without interference by the first fixing part (110)
or the second fixing part (120) when applying pressure to a pressing part (212, see
Fig. 10) to be explained below. The structures of bumps are added to the first
fixing part (110) as necessary, which enable to minimize the contact surface of the
tapes for obtaining samples (10) and maximize the surface area of the tapes for
obtaining samples (10) exposed to the lysis buffer (20), and allow free movement
of the lysis buffer (20).
【78】The body part (200) may comprise a chamber (210) which forms
a predetermined space inside to receive the lysis buffer (20) and into which the
tapes for obtaining samples (10) are inserted to be immerged in the lysis buffer
(20).
【79】A base (220) is provided in the lower part of the chamber (210) to
support and stand the chamber (210). The base (220) may be formed with the
slope such that the cross sectional area increases downward in order for the body
part (200) to stand stably.
【80】The thickness of the inside space of the chamber (210) is
preferably configured such that each of non-contact surfaces (14) of the two tapes
for obtaining samples (10) is adhered to the inner wall of the chamber (210) when
the two tapes for obtaining samples (10) are inserted. Accordingly, most of all
the lysis buffer (20) contained in the chamber (210) fill the space between the two
tapes for obtaining samples (10).
【81】Such configuration is able to minimize dead space and to
maximize the contact surface with the tapes for obtaining samples (10), which
results in increasing the extraction concentration of biomolecule to a level which
can be measured with a small amount of sample, even with applying a minimum
amount of the lysis buffer (20).
【82】In particular, conventionally, since skin tissue samples adhered to
the tapes for obtaining samples (10) are hydrophobic and thus the lysis buffer (20)
did not spontaneously spread out, external force should be compulsorily applied
or additional operation should be performed by a device. Also, in order to avoid
a problem that the tapes (10) rise up when immerged, external force should be
consistently applied to the tapes (10).
【83】
【84】Also, as explained above, the biomolecule extraction device
(1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, which makes the
11
contact surface with the tapes for obtaining samples (10) relatively very large with
respective to the volume of the lysis buffer (20), can dissolve cells only by being
shaken once or twice and being left to stand. When the insertion part (100) is
inserted into and joined with the body part (200), strong fixing force can be
maintained, and thus the lysis buffer (20) can fill the empty space between the
tapes without additional compulsory external force or additional operation. The
condition for contact can be effectively maintained. Thereby, the efficiency of
extracting proteins can be rapidly increased.
【85】These matters can be confirmed from the graphs of Figs. 7 and 8.
Fig. 7 compares the ratio (SA:V) of the surface area of the tapes for obtaining
samples (10) in contact with the lysis buffer (20) to the buffer volume of the lysis
buffer (20) contained in the chamber (210) of the biomolecule extraction device,
Protein Extraction Device (PED, 1000) according to one embodiment of the
present invention with the ratios according to conventional devices.
【86】In the cases of applying conventional Petri dish and Eppendorf
tube, the SA:V ratios do not exceed 0.4. By comparison, in the case of applying
the device of the present invention, since the cross-sectional area of the tapes (10)
is 380 mm2 and the amount of the lysis buffer (20) to be introduced is 200 L when
using a product such as D-Squame disk manufactured by Cuderm Corporation, the
calculated SA:V ratio is 1.9, which is over 0.4, but the SA:V ratio practically
exceeds 1.4 in order to secure tolerance during the manufacture of injection
molding of an extractor and spare space of a mold, etc.
【87】In theory, the SA:V ratio can be further increased by reducing a
distance between the tapes for obtaining samples (10). However, considering
that a target discharge amount for one time is 35~40㎕ and a substantial
minimum gap that can be pressed when discharging is about 100㎛, while
preventing the adhesion between the two tapes (10), the SA:V ratio can be raised
up to about 9.15.
【88】As such, the present invention makes the SA:V ratio relatively
high and optimal, which enables to extract proteins with a minimum amount of
samples and also raise the extract concentration.
【89】Indeed, as can be confirmed from the graph of Fig. 8, in the case
of introducing the lysis buffer in the same amount (250㎕/disk) into the
conventional Petri dish and Eppendorf tube, the concentration of the extracted
total protein is around 40㎍/ml in both devices. However, in the case of the
device according to the present invention, it can be confirmed that it scored
63.4㎍/ml, which shows noticeably higher protein extraction efficiency.
【90】Meanwhile, the entrance of the chamber (210) may be left open
or comprise a shielding film (218). In case the entrance is left open, a user
introduces the lysis buffer (20) into the chamber (210) before inserting the
insertion part (100); in case the entrance comprises the shielding film (218), a
predetermined amount of the lysis buffer (20) may be contained inside the
12
chamber (210) in advance.
【91】The shielding film (218) consists of, for example, aluminum foil
or vinyl film, etc., to seal the entrance of the chamber (210), and the user can
insert the insertion part (100) after removing the shielding film (218), or push the
insertion part (100) to penetrate the lysis buffer (218) so as to be inserted into the
chamber (210). The position of the shielding film (218) is not fixed to the
entrance of the chamber (21) but may be in the introduction part (230) as
necessary.
【92】An introduction part (230) may be comprised on the upper part of
the chamber (210). The introduction part (230) can be configured to extend
upward from the entrance of the chamber (210) by a certain height. Further, a
sealing part (130) sealing the chamber (210) can be provided at one end of the
insertion part (100), which is closely contacted to the inner wall of the
introduction part (230) so as to correspond to the introduction part (230).
【93】That is, the introduction part (230) is open upward, and when the
tapes for obtaining samples (10) attached to the first fixing part (110) and the
second fixing part (120) are inserted into the chamber (210), the sealing part (130)
is fitted in the introduction part (230) to seal the chamber (210).
【94】Further, if the introduction part (230) and the sealing part (130)
are cut horizontally, the cross sections thereof may be shown in an oval shape. If
the cross sections thereof are to be in a square shape, the adhesion force is not
distributed evenly, and thus the sample may leak from the corners; and if the cross
sections are made a circular shape, the adhesion force is distributed evenly, but
they have a bulky volume. Thus, the present embodiment proposes a case
where the cross sections of the introduction part (230) and sealing part (130) are
in an oval shape. Here, the sealing part (130) may comprise a plurality of
reinforcing ribs (132) for reinforcing the strength thereof. The reinforcing ribs
(132) boost the adhering force and fixing force of the sealing part (130) to the
inner wall of the introduction part (230) while reinforcing the strength so that the
sealing part (130) is not deformed when being joined with the body part (200).
【95】Meanwhile, the biomolecule extraction device (1000) according
to one embodiment of the present invention comprises at least one discharge part
(300) equipped in the insertion part (100) or body part (200). The present
embodiment describes an example where the discharge part (300) is provided to
the insertion part.
【96】Here, the discharge part (300) comprise a discharge flow path
(310) which penetrates the sealing part (310) and allows the chamber (210) to
communicate with the outside and discharge the sample, and an expanded
discharge port (320) which is provided at the end of the discharge flow path (310)
and has an inner diameter greater than the inner diameter of the discharge flow
path (310) so as to constantly discharge the sample.
【97】The discharge flow path (310) communicates with the chamber
(210) at one end and is connected to the expanded discharge port (320) at the
other end, through which a sample having the protein extraction can be discharged.
13
The discharge flow path (310) should be designed to have a minimum inner
diameter before reaching the expended discharge port (320), in order to minimize
the dead space and increase the total discharge amount. In the present
embodiment, the discharge flow path (310) has a diameter of 850 ㎛, which is
half of that of the expanded discharge port (320).
【98】The amount of the discharged sample can be adjusted to a
constant amount by adjusting the size of the inner diameter of the expanded
discharge port (320). The discharge amount can be calculated according to the
following equation with referring to Fig. 9. To be specific, the discharge amount
can be designed by means of the equilibrium state between the gravity force based
on the weight of a single droplet of the extracted sample flowing out from the
expanded discharge port (320) and the surface tension thereof trying to dangle at
the discharge port.
【99】
【100】Surface tension : Fγ = πdγ
【101】Gravity force : Fg = Fγsinα
【102】 mg = πdγsinα
【103】 mg = πdγ
【104】 W = 2πrγ
【105】W : weight of droplet, r : radius of outlet, γ : surface
tension
【106】
【107】In the present embodiment, the discharge path (310) has
an inner diameter of about 850㎛ and the expanded discharge port (320) has an
inner diameter of 1.7mm. When the inner diameter of the expanded discharge
port (320) is designed to be 1.7mm, the unit discharge amount of the sample is
theoretically about 37.7㎕.
【108】After producing actual products, 10 biomolecule
extraction devices (10) were measured and tested twice under each condition by
applying deionized water and the lysis buffer (20). As a result, the actual unit
discharge amount was measured as 35.5±2㎕, as shown in the following Table 1,
and thus it can be confirmed that the sample is substantially constantly discharged
through the biomolecule extraction devices(1000) according to the present
invention.
【109】【Table 1】
Dev No. D.I. water(㎕) Lysis Buffer(㎕)
1st droplet 2nd droplet 1st droplet 2nd droplet
1 33 36 40 33
2 33 36 35 35
14
3 34 37 48 36
4 33 33 35 36
5 32 30 33 34
6 35 35 35 36
7 36 35 35 36
8 37 38 37 35
9 30 34 35 34
10 30 34 35 37
Average 33.3 34.8 35.8 35.2
SD 2.3 2.3 2.0 1.2
%CV 6.94 6.47 5.56 3.49
【110】As such, the biomolecule extraction devices (1000)
according to one embodiment of the present invention, which is a simple device
without a separate metering device, is capable of precisely discharging a constant
amount of sample, and thus can produce a precise experimental result in a
following operation performed after the sample is discharged into a test kit after
extraction.
【111】A detachable sealing cap (140) may be additionally
provided to the expanded discharge port (320), which prevents the sample from
being randomly discharged and ensures the user’s safety.
【112】Meanwhile, a pressing part (212), which is formed on the
outer wall of the chamber (210) such that external force can be applied when the
user discharges the sample, and presses the sample, may be provided. Basically,
a region corresponding to a hollow part the curved shape of the above-described
first fixing part (110) forms in the outer wall of the chamber (210) forms a
pressing part (212).
【113】Specifically, the user applies pressure to the pressing part
(212) to discharge the extracted sample, and when applying pressure, the inner
walls of the chamber (210) are bent in a parabolic shape and thereby the extracted
sample is squeezed out of the outlet.
【114】Fig. 10 illustrates perspective views and partial cross
sectional views of modifications examples of the pressing part of the biomolecule
extraction device according to the embodiment of the present invention, and
diagrams illustrating deformation of the inner walls of the chamber when pressed.
【115】As shown in Fig. 10, pressing parts (212a, 212b, 212c)
modified in order to increase the recovery rate by applying uniform pressure are
proposed.
【116】First, in the present embodiment, the pressing part (212a,
212b, 212c) may be made in an embossed form having a thickness greater than
the surrounding outer wall. The pressing part (212a, 212b) may be configured to
be made in a circular, embossed form as illustrated in Figs. 10(B) and 10(C), or in
a wheel shape as illustrated in Fig. 10(D). In the case of a structure having a
thickness or height of 2 mm or more, a hollow is generated due to the failure to
15
completely fill the structure of a mould with melted plastics when injection
molding or the residual stress is focused when cooling after injection molding,
which causes the structure’s deformation or the ease generation of cracks. In the
case of the pressing part in a wheel shape, the problem occurred in the injection
molding can be minimized. By means of the thus-configured pressing part (212a,
212b, 212c), the sample can be discharged by applying pressure uniformly.
【117】Further, the biomolecule extraction devices according to
the embodiments of the present invention may be configured to further comprise
an engraved part (214) which is provided around the pressing part (212b, 212c)
and has a thickness smaller than the surrounding outer wall. The engraved part
(214) reduces the thickness around the pressing part (212), which enables the
pressing part (212) to be easily bent.
【118】According to the above-explained modifications, the
inner wall of the chamber (210) to be pressurized is uniformly pressed from a
parabolic shape in a linear manner, which can apply pressure uniformly,
regardless of the shape of user’s finger or the size of force to be applied, and
thereby to increase the recovery rate of the sample.
【119】Fig. 11 is a process diagram illustrating the process of
extracting biomolecule (proteins) using the biomolecule extraction device
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
【120】Hereinafter, we will explain a method for extracting
biomolecule (proteins) by means of the biomolecule extraction device (1000)
according to one embodiment of the present invention, with reference to Figs. 1 to
11.
【121】First, two tapes for obtaining samples (10) are attached to
and then detached from the subject’s skin to take the skin tissue. Then, the two
tapes are adhered such that they are faced each other with the first fixing part
(110) and the second fixing part (120) interposed.
【122】Then, the lysis buffer (20) is introduced into the chamber
(210) of the body part (200) and the insertion part (100) is inserted into the body
part (200). Here, the lysis buffer (20) is contained in the chamber (210) in
advance and may be provided in a sealed state by the shielding film (218).
【123】Thereafter, the biomolecule extraction device (1000) is
shaken once or twice with the tapes for obtaining samples (10) positioned inside
the chamber (210) and is left to stand for 1 minute or several minutes as necessary.
In this process, the cells are dissolved in the lysis buffer (20) and the proteins are
extracted.
【124】Then, after removing the sealing cap (140), the pressing
part is pressed to discharge the sample having the extracted proteins into the inlet,
and the test through antibody response can be proceeded.
【125】Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the biomolecule
extraction device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig.
13 is a cross sectional view of the biomolecule extraction device according to
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another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 is a plan view of the
biomolecule extraction device according to another embodiment of the present
invention.
【126】With reference to Figs. 12 to 14, the biomolecule
extraction device (2000) according to another embodiment of the present
invention may also be made by comprising an insertion part (400), a body part
(500) and a discharge part (600), briefly.
【127】Here, the discharge part (600) may be equipped in the
body part (500), not in the insertion part (400), unlike the previous embodiment.
The insertion part (400) comprises a fixing part (410), and the tapes for obtaining
samples (10) may be physically joined with the fixing part (410) by means of
insertion or be adhered and fixed thereto by applying an adhesive.
【128】The present embodiment suggests a case where two tapes
for obtaining samples (10) are fixed to the fixing part (410), but it is also possible
to fix and use a single or three or more tapes for obtaining samples (10), as
necessary.
【129】The insertion part (400) and the body part (500) may be
connected to each other by a connection part(550). The body part (500)
comprises an introduction part (530), and the insert part (400) may comprise a
sealing part (430) to correspond to the introduction part.
【130】Meanwhile, the body part (500) may comprise a chamber
(510) which contains the lysis buffer, and the tapes for obtaining samples (10)
which are fixed to the fixing part (410) can be inserted into the chamber (510) and
the biomolecule can be extracted by the lysis buffer contained in the chamber
(510) as the insertion part (400) is inserted into the body part (500).
【131】Once the biomolecule extraction is completed, the user
presses a pressing part (512) formed on the outer wall of the chamber (510) to
discharge the extracted sample discharge through a discharge part (600). Here,
various modifications explained in the previous embodiment can be equally
applied to the pressing part (512).
【132】The biomolecule extraction device according to the
embodiments of the present invention explained so far has the following effects.
【133】First, the biomolecule extraction device according to the
present invention can perform the whole process of fixing a sample and injecting
a buffer, assembling the insertion part and mixing, letting stand still and extraction,
etc., within 5 minutes, which results in innovatively reducing the time to be taken,
whereas most of the conventional protein or nucleic acid extraction methods
required at least 20 to 30 minutes in total for mechanical or physical impact
application, repetitive centrifugation, filtering and other process, etc., in order to
break intercellular bonding or cell membrane.
【134】Second, the biomolecule extraction device according to
the present invention is performed in a non-impact and non-power manner, which
needs neither broad experimental space nor a complicated system, ensures the
17
user’s safety, and is able to avoid harmful effect due to wastes because an
extremely small amount of buffer is applied for a single use.
【135】Third, the biomolecule extraction device according to the
present invention can minimize the dead space, greatly increase the SA:V ratio,
which allows the protein extraction without external force in a high concentration,
and constantly discharge after extraction. Thus, a precise test with a test kit is
possible.
【136】Fourth, the biomolecule extraction device according to
the present invention simplifies the protein extraction process in cells and can be
independently used as one device without the need of additional devices, such as a
centrifuge, a pipet, etc., and can be used without the user’s skill. Thus, the user’s
convenience can be enhanced.
【137】In the above, the present invention was explained by
referring to one example of the present invention (the example applied to the skin
tissues), but a person skilled in the art can variously modify and change the
present invention without deviating from the idea and scope of the present
invention recited in the claims described below. The extraction device proposed
in the present invention can be used for extracting from diverse biomass various
biomolecules available for various analysis and diagnosis. The application scope
includes biotechnology, molecular biology, medical science, pharmaceuticals,
cosmetics, genetic engineering, diagnosis, health care, etc., but is not limited
thereto. Thus, if the modifications basically comprise the features of the claims
of the present application, they all should be deemed to belong to the technical
scope of the present invention.
18
We Claim:
1, A biomolecule extraction device, comprising:
an insertion part to which a sample containing collected biomass is fixed;
a body part which receives a lysis buffer inside and into which the
insertion part is inserted to extract biomolecule from the collected biomass; and
at least one discharge part provided at the insertion part or the body part.
2, The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 1,
characterized in that the insertion part comprises at least one fixing part to
which the sample is fixed.
3, The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 2,
characterized in that the fixing part fixes the sample by adhesive bonding
or physical bonding.
4. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 3,
characterized in that the adhesive bonding of the fixing part is performed
by using the adhesiveness present in the collected sample or applying an adhesive
substance to the fixing part.
5. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 3,
characterized in that at least part of the fixing part is in a bent curved
shape.
6. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 3,
characterized in that physical bonding of the fixing part fixes the sample
by insertion bonding.
7. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 2,
characterized in that at least part of the sample is fixed to the fixing part.
8. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 1,
characterized in that the body part comprises a chamber having a
predetermined space formed inside for receiving the lysis buffer and into which
the insertion part is inserted and the lysis buffer is immersed.
9. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 8,
further comprising a shielding film sealing the entrance of the chamber,
characterized in that the lysis buffer is received in the chamber in a sealed
condition.
10. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 8,
characterized in that the body part further comprises an introduction part
guiding the insertion part to the chamber.
11. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 8,
characterized in that the insertion part comprises a sealing part formed in
a form corresponding to the introduction part and having a close contact with the
inner wall of the introduction part to seal the chamber.
12. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 11,
characterized in that the cross sections of the introduction part and the
sealing part are formed in an oval or circular shape.
13. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 11,
19
characterized in that the sealing part comprises a reinforcing rib for
reinforcing strength thereof.
14. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 1,
characterized in that the discharge part comprises a discharge flow path
and an expanded discharge port for constantly discharging the sample.
15. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 14,
characterized in that the discharge flow path has an inner diameter smaller
than the discharge port in order to minimize dead space.
16. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 14,
further comprising a sealing cap detachably sealing the discharge part.
17. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 8,
further comprising a pressing part being formed at the outer wall of the
chamber and applying pressure allowing constant discharge of the sample.
18. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 17,
characterized in that the pressing part is formed in an embossed form
having a thickness greater than that of the surrounding outer wall.
19. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 17,
further comprising an engraved part being formed around the pressing
part and having a thickness smaller than the surrounding outer wall.
20. The biomolecule extraction device according to claim 1,
characterized in that a ratio between the surface area of the sample in
contact with the lysis buffer and the volume of the lysis buffer is from 0.4 to 9.15.
21. Amethod for extracting biomolecule, comprising:
fixing a sample containing collected biomass to an insertion part;
inserting the insertion part into the body part receiving lysis buffer inside;
and
discharging biomolecule extracted from the biomass through a discharge
part provided at any one of the insertion part or the body part.
22. The method according to claim 21,
characterized in that the sample is fixed to the insertion part by adhesive
bonding or physical bonding.
23. The method according to claim 21,
characterized in that the sample has a ratio between the surface area of the
sample in contact with the lysis buffer and the volume of the lysis buffer is from
0.4 to 9.15.