Multiplex fluorescence detection device having removable optical modules

Abstract

Techniques are described for the detection of multiple target species in real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). For example, a system is described that includes a data acquisition device and a detection device coupled to the data acquisition device. The detection device includes a rotating disk having a plurality of process chambers having a plurality of species that emit fluorescent light at different wavelengths. The device further includes a plurality of optical modules. Each of the optical modules is optically configured to excite the species and capture fluorescent light emitted by the species at different wavelengths. A fiber optic bundle coupled to the plurality of optical modules conveys the fluorescent light from the multiple optical modules to a single detector.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to assay systems, and more particularly to techniques for detecting multiple target substances using fluorescent dyes. Background technique [0002] Optical disc systems are often used to perform a variety of biological, chemical or biochemical assays. In a typical system, a rotatable disk is used as a medium for storing and processing fluid samples such as blood, plasma, serum, urine or other fluids. [0003] One type of analysis is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which is often used for nucleic acid sequence analysis. In particular, PCR is often used in DNA sequencing, cloning, gene mapping, and other forms of nucleic acid sequence analysis. [0004] In general, PCR relies on the ability of DNA-replicases to maintain stability at elevated temperatures. There are three main stages in PCR: denaturation, annealing and extension. During denaturation, liquid samples are heated at approximately 94°C. During this proc...

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