Devices and methods for biochip multiplexing

Abstract

The invention is directed to devices that allow for simultaneous multiple biochip analysis. In particular, the devices are configured to hold multiple cartridges comprising biochips comprising arrays such as nucleic acid arrays, and allow for high throughput analysis of samples.

We claim:  
     
         1 . A biochip cartridge comprising: 
 a) a reaction chamber comprising: 
 i) a substrate comprising an array of electrodes, each comprising: 
 A) a self-assembled monolayer; and  
 B) a capture binding ligand;  
 
 II) an inlet port for the introduction of reagents; and  
   b) interconnects to allow the electrical connection of said electrodes to a processor.    
     
     
         2 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  wherein said capture binding ligands are capture probes.  
     
     
         3 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  wherein said reaction chamber further comprises a gasket to retain fluid in contact with said array.  
     
     
         4 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  further comprising a seal on said inlet port.  
     
     
         5 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  wherein said reaction chamber further comprises an outlet port.  
     
     
         6 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  wherein said reaction chamber is configured to minimize the introduction or retention of air bubbles upon introduction of a sample.  
     
     
         7 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  wherein said array is on one surface of said substrate.  
     
     
         8 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  wherein two surfaces of said substrate each comprise an array.  
     
     
         9 . A biochip cartridge according to  claim 1  further comprising a cap comprising at least one storage well comprising assay reagents.  
     
     
         10 . A device for multiple biochip analysis comprising at least two stations configured to receive a biochip cartridge.  
     
     
         11 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein at least one station comprises a thermocontroller.  
     
     
         12 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein every station comprises a thermocontroller.  
     
     
         13 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein at least one station comprises a signalling system.  
     
     
         14 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein at least one station comprises a memory chip reader.  
     
     
         15 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein at least one station comprises a barcode reader.  
     
     
         16 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein at least one station comprises a memory chip writer.  
     
     
         17 . A device according to  claim 10  wherein at least one station comprises an encryption system.  
     
     
         18 . A device according to  claim 10  further comprising at least two biochip cartridges.  
     
     
         19 . A device according to  claim 10  further comprising a liquid handling system.  
     
     
         20 . A device according to  claim 10  further comprising a wireless communication component.  
     
     
         21 . A device according to  claim 10  further comprising a device board.  
     
     
         22 . A device according to  claim 10  further comprising a processor.  
     
     
         23 . A device according to  claim 10  further comprising a global positioning system.