ELECTROPHORESIS/ELECTRO-BLOT TRANSFER APPARATUS AND METHOD

OF MANUFACTURING

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[oooi] The present invention relates generally to apparatuses for performing electrophoresis and/or electro- blot transfer on gel slab assemblies and a method of manufacturing same.

2. Background Art

[0002] Presently there exist systems in the art that can be assembled to perform both electrophoresis and electro- blot transfer. However, these commercialized systems can be very costly. One factor that considerably influences the cost is the number of overall components of a particular apparatus: the greater the number of components, the greater the cost . In addition, more components also entail a more complicated assembly process that is time consuming. [0003] For example, previously known gel electrophoresis apparatus taught in U.S. Patent 6,001,233 includes a separate cam-activated clamp for securing the gel cassettes against the buffer core body; thus, creating a seal therebetween so as to separate the buffer tank into first and second reservoirs. The major drawbacks of having the locking mechanism as a separate component include the fact that an extra assembly step is required and that an extra component needs to be manufactured.

[0004] Generally, it is disadvantageous for a gel electrophoresis/electro-blot transfer apparatus to include components that carry out a single function. By including multi-functional components the total number of components is minimized. Consequently, the assembly process involved in piecing together the apparatus becomes more efficient and the overall manufacturing costs decrease.

[0005] Another factor that influences the cost of electrophoresis and electro-blot transfer systems is the method by which the apparatuses are manufactured. Generally, the more steps required making the components of the apparatus and the more attachment means between parts: the longer it takes to manufacture so as a result the steeper the price.

[0006] Still another factor that influences the cost is the frequency at which the electrically conductive elements need to be replaced due to damage. In many cases the electrically conductive elements are made of expensive materials like platinum. As taught in the prior art, these elements are typically included in the buffer tank attached thereto. Consequently, there is an elevated risk that during the cleaning process of the buffer tank, the elements are accidentally damaged. As a result, the buffer tank must be carefully cleaned to avoid having to replace the elements regularly, which implies a time inefficient cleaning process .

[0007] The present invention was developed with the above identified factors in mind so as to overcome the disadvantages set forth of presently k Inown apparatuses .

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide an electrophoresis/electro-blot transfer apparatus that is less expensive yet more efficient to assemble, clean and manufacture.

[0009] Therefore, in accordance with a first broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for performing chemical composition analysis using a power source, a buffer solution and gel slab assemblies comprising: a buffer tank configured for receiving at least one gel slab assembly and a core component; a lid for covering said buffer tank; said core component configured for insertion into said buffer tank for partitioning said

buffer tank into first and second reservoirs, said first and second reservoirs for receiving said buffer solution; said core component having first and second electrodes adapted to be connected to said power source for applying an electric potential to said buffer solution contained in said first and second reservoirs respectively; and a locking mechanism provided on one of said lid and said core component and a corresponding locking feature provided on said buffer tank, said locking mechanism automatically locking by engagement with said corresponding locking feature upon positioning the one of said lid and said core component relative to said buffer tank.

[0010] In accordance with a second broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for performing gel electrophoresis using a power source and a buffer solution comprising: a buffer tank, at least one gel slab assembly for insertion into the buffer tank, a lid for covering said buffering tank thereby providing protection from said buffer solution when performing gel electrophoresis, a core component adapted to be inserted into the buffer tank for partitioning said buffer tank into first and second reservoirs, said first and second reservoirs for receiving said buffer solution, said core component having: a partitioning segment for demarcating said first and second reservoirs, said partitioning segment being adapted to sealingly engage said gel slab assembly once in place in said buffer tank, first and second electrodes adapted to be connected to said power source for applying an electric potential to said buffer solution contained in said first and second reservoirs respectively, and a locking mechanism provided on one of said lid and said core component and a corresponding locking feature provided on said buffer tank, said locking mechanism automatically locking by engagement with said corresponding locking feature so as to ensure that said seal between said sealing member and said at least one gel slab assembly is created

and to prevent said core component from retracting out of said buffer tank.

[ooii] In accordance with a third broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a buffer tank of an apparatus for performing a chemical composition analysis on at least one gel slab assembly, the buffer tank comprising: a supporting surface adapted for receiving said at least one gel slab assembly, said supporting surface provided for guiding said at least one gel slab assembly into a proper position during insertion into said buffer tank thereafter supporting said gel slab assemblies in said proper position. [0012] In accordance with a third broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a core component of a gel electrophoresis/electro-blot transfer apparatus configured for insertion into a buffer tank, said core component including a partitioning segment, and an electrode assembly having electrical components, said method comprising the steps of: providing a pre-moulded frame for ^' receiving said electrical components, inserting said electrical components in said pre-moulded frame to create said electrode assembly, and setting said electrode assembly in a mould- and moulding said partitioning segment thereover.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, showing by way of illustration a preferred embodiment of the invention and in which:

[0014] Fig. 1 is a perspective assembled view of an electrophoresis apparatus that includes a first locking mechanism in accordance with a first embodiment ^■ of the present invention;

[0015] Fig. 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 1;

[0016] Fig. 3 shows another exploded perspective view of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 1;

[0017] Fig. 4 shows a cross sectional assembly view of the electrophoresis apparatus;

[0018] Fig. 5 shows a front view of the core component of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 1, and more particularly of the locking mechanism thereof;

[0019] Fig. 6 shows a side view of the core component of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 1, and more particularly of the locking mechanism thereof;

[0020] Fig. 7 shows an exploded view of the electrode assembly of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 1;

[0021] . Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of the buffer tank of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig.1;

[0022] Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of another electrophoresis apparatus that includes a second locking mechanism in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of the buffer tank of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 9;

[0024] Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a core component of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 9;

[0025] Fig. 12 shows a side view of the core component of the electrophoresis apparatus shown in Fig. 9, and more particularly of the locking mechanism thereof;

[0026] Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of an assembled electro-blot transfer apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0027] Fig. 14 shows a sectional side view of the electro-blot transfer apparatus shown in Fig. 13.

[0028]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] The present invention will be described with reference to two configurations; the electrophoresis configuration and the electro-blot transfer configuration.

ELECTROPHORESIS CONFIGURATION

[0030] Referring now to Fig. 1, an exemplary embodiment of an electrophoresis apparatus 10 according to the present invention is illustrated. Fig. 2 shows the interacting relationship between the main elements of the electrophoresis apparatus 10. The electrophoresis apparatus 10 generally comprises a buffer tank 100, gel slab assemblies 200, a core component 300, and a lid 400. [0031] Referring to Fig. 3, the buffer tank 100 is depicted as having a base 102 and two sidewalls 104, each sidewall 104' having an inside surface 106 and outside surface 108. In this exemplary embodiment, the base 102 is provided in the form of a U-shaped member having a bottom web portion from which extends upwardly a pair of opposed facing inclined plates. This arrangement contributes to facilitating the cleaning of the electrophoresis apparatus following the experimental process. In addition, the base 102 is preferably made of a transparent material allowing for clear visibility of the supported gel slab assemblies 200 throughout the conducted experiment. Advantageously, an individual performing the gel electrophoresis experiment can better monitor the progress of the experiment by observing the gel slab assemblies 200. However, it should be noted that alternative base configurations and material choices are also possible so long as the buffer tank 100 fundamentally serves its purpose as will be clarified herein furtheron.

[0032] Still referring to Fig. 3, it can be seen that the inside surfaces 106 of the sidewalls 104 have a U-shaped slit ^' 110 for receiving the U-shaped base 102 therein. An adhesive is used to secure the U-shaped base 102 in the U- shaped slit 110 so that the sidewalls 104 and base 102 are unified, thus forming the buffer tank 100. Furthermore, a gasket (not shown) can also be used to prevent possible leakage from occurring between the base 102 and the sidewalls 104. Notably, the buffer tank 100 could also be

formed as an integral part. One possible way of manufacturing the buffer tank 100 integrally is by way of injection molding.

[0033] Furthermore, the buffer tank 100 is adapted for receiving the gel slab assemblies 200 acting as a support frame. In this particular embodiment, the buffer tank 100 is designed to hold two gel slab assemblies 200 in an inclined position, in mirroring relation. Nevertheless, the design of the buffer tank 100 could easily be modified to support a plurality of gel slab assemblies 200 in various positions relative to each other, so long as the electrophoresis apparatus of the present invention does not deter from its operability.

[0034] As above-mentioned, it is preferable that the gel slab assemblies 200 are supported at a slight inclination within the buffer tank 100 to considerably improve the working position of an individual loading the gel slab assemblies 200 with samples. According to the present invention, the gel slab assemblies 200 are supported in the buffer tank 100 in an inclined orientation converging into the buffer tank 100. Note that the opposite inclination is another alternative design.

[0035] The inside surfaces 106 of the sidewalls 104 are advantageously formed to include integral angled supports 112 (Fig. 8) that act to uphold the gel slab assemblies 200 within the buffer tank 100. The angled supports 112 also aid in guiding the gel slab assemblies 200 into position. When properly positioned, the gel slab assemblies 200 face each other leaning against the angled supports 112 away from each other.

[0036] Moreover, the gel slab assemblies 200 referred to in the present description are preferably the same as gel cassettes and support plates taught in U.S. Patent 6,379,519Bl the contents of which is herewith incorporated by reference, but not limited thereto. A conventional gel slab cast between two glass plates separated by side spacers can also be used in the electrophoresis apparatus 10.

[0037] Referring now concurrently to Figs. 2, 3 and 8, it can be seen that the buffer tank 100 is also adapted for engageably receiving the core component 300. More specifically, the sidewalls 104 of the buffer tank 100 each possess a 'locking feature 114 for engagement with the core component 300. As a first embodiment, the locking features

114 are a pair of catches 115 protruding from the outside surfaces 108 of the sidewalls 104. Preferably, the catches

115 are integrally formed as part of the outside surface 108.

[0038] The core component 300, insertable into the buffer tank 100, comprises a pair of locking mechanisms 302 configured to engage with the corresponding pair of locking features 114. As a preferred embodiment, the locking mechanisms 302 are depicted in the accompanying drawings at opposite ends of the core component 300 in mirroring relation. A first embodiment of the locking mechanisms 302 is demonstrated in Figs. 1 to 6 and 8 and a second embodiment (of the locking mechanisms that will be denoted as 302' from hereon is demonstrated in Figs. 9 to 12) . [0039] Referring to Figs. 2 to 4, the locking mechanisms 302 of the first embodiment include clips 304 integrated to the core component 300 and designed to engage the locking features 114 once the core component 300 has been fully inserted into the buffer tank 100. Specifically, the clips 304 engage the catches 115 'by hooking thereunder. Moreover, the clips 304 preferably lock automatically once the core component 300 has been lowered to its final position in the buffer tank 100, thereby obviating the need to perform a further action to secure the core component 300 into the buffer tank 100, while at the same time providing an indication that the core component 300 has been properly positioned in the buffer tank 100. The core component 300 can be unhooked from the buffer tank 100 by simply pivotally disengaging the clips 304 as they are each predisposed to pivoting about a center of rotation 306.

[0040] In further detail, each clip 304 includes a pivoting portion 308 with a first end 310 and a second end 312, both ends being distally located with respect to the center of rotation 306. The second end 312 is in the form of a hook to hook onto the corresponding locking feature 114, the catch 115, of the buffer tank 100 upon insertion of the core component 300 therein.

[0041] Each clip 304 can be disengaged by an applied pressure P to the first end 310 of the pivoting portion 308 so as to unhook the second ends 312 of the pair of clips 304 from under the catches 115. As indicated in Fig. 2. Pressure P is applied towards sagital plane A, which cuts the electrophoresis apparatus into two ' similar parts down the center. Hence, pressure P causes the pivoting portions 308 to rotate about the centers of rotation 306, thus disengaging the locking mechanisms 302.

[0042] To retract the core component 300 from within the buffer tank 100, pressure P must be applied and maintained until the .core .component 300 is withdrawn to a point at which the clips 304 _. cannot engage with the locking features 114. Succeeding this point, the pressure P is no longer required and can stop being applied.

[0043] Now referring concurrently to ' Figs . 9 through 12,. the locking mechanisms 302' of the second embodiment are ratchet type mechanisms 304' designed to engage the locking features 114' once the core component 300 has been inserted into the buffer tank 100. As a second embodiment, the pair of locking features 114' are preferably integrally formed as part of the inside surfaces 106 of the sidewalls 104. [0044] Moreover, the locking features 114', as best illustrated in Fig. 10, can be described as ratchet teeth or notches propitiously suited for engagement with the ratchet type mechanisms 304' of the core component 300. Each ratchet type mechanism 304' .includes a rocking spring loaded arm 306' with a pawl portion 308' (shown in Fig. 12) . [0045] The rocking arms 306' are each predisposed to pivoting about a center of rotation 310' . In addition, the

rocking arms 306' are preferably partly enclosed by casings 312' as depicted in Figs. 11 and 12. The pawl portions 308' are adapted to fall into the notches so as to permit motion only in the direction of insertion of the core component 300 with respect to the buffer tank 100. Thus, the pawl portions 308' automatically engage the locking features 114', preventing the core component 300 from being retracted from the buffer tank 100 without first disengaging the locking mechanisms 302'. Furthermore, to ensure that the core component 300 is properly inserted and locked into the buffer tank 100, the pawl portions 308' must be urged to fall into the lowest notches. An inability to push the core component 300 still further into the buffer tank 100 is an indication to an individual performing the experiment that the core component 300 has been locked into the desirable position. '

[0046] To retract the core component from within the buffer tank 100, pressure P', identified in Fig. 12, must be applied and maintained until the core component is withdrawn to a point at which the pawl portions 308' cannot engage with the locking features 114' (i.e. fall into the notches in the sidewalls 104) . Succeeding this point, the pressure P' is no longer required and can stop being applied. [0047] At this point it is important to state that the locking mechanisms 302 and 302' herein described as part of the core component 300 can alternatively be included on the lid 400 with the locking features 114 and 114' remaining on the buffer tank. Thus, the lid 400 would act to secure the core component 300 within the buffer tank 100. [0048] Now referring concurrently to Figs. 2, 5, 6 and 7, the core component 300 can be further described as having a partitioning segment 314 and an electrode assembly 316 (shown individually in Fig. 7) that are preferably interconnected.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 4, the partitioning segment 314 is configured to divide the buffer tank 100 into a first and a second reservoir, 116 and 118 respectively. For example,

01700

the partitioning segment 314 can have a horizontal portion 318 (perpendicular to sagital plane A shown in Figs. 4 and 5) flanked, by a pair of vertical side portions 320, the latter received by the sidewalls 104 of the buffer tank 100. Thus, the combination of the horizontal portion 318 and the pair of side portions 320 in cooperation with the gel slab assemblies 200 define the first reservoir 116 as the upper reservoir; and, the combination of the horizontal portion 318 and the pair of side portions 320 in cooperation with the buffer tank 100 define the second reservoir 118 as the lower reservoir.

[0050] The electrode assembly 316, as best demonstrated in Fig. 7, includes a pair of electrodes 322 connected to respective electrically conductive rods 324 that are attached to respective electrical wires 326. The basis of the gel electrophoresis method resides in the fact that the electrode assembly 316 provides a driving force, when motivated by an electrical current derived from a power source, for moving molecules across a span of the gel slab assemblies 200.

[0051] Moreover, referring concurrently to Figs. 5 and 7, the electrical assembly 316 can be described as having the electrical wires 326 flanked by the electrically conductive rods 324 that are connected to respective electrodes 322. The electrical assembly 316 can also be defined by a rectangular shape whereby the electrically conductive rods 324 extend from the first reservoir 116 to the second reservoir 118 parallel to vertical plane A shown in Figs. 4 and 5, and the electrical wires 326 extend perpendicular thereto attached to opposite ends of respective rods 324. [0052] Preferably the rods 324 and electrical wires 326 are protected by a covering 328 as in Fig. 7. For example, the covering 328 can be integral to the partitioning segment 314 so as to interconnect the latter and the electrode assembly 316. More specifically, the wires 326 extend between top and bottom guards 330, 332 forming part of the covering 328. In the case of the electrical wires 326, the

protection that the guards 330 and 332 provide allows for smaller diameter wires to be used. Due to the fact that the wires 326 are made of expensive material like platinum, using smaller diameter wires reduces costs.

[0053] Notably, the electrically conductive rods 324 respectively must only make contact with one of the pair of electrical wires 326 for the electrode assembly 316 to function. One possible way of ensuring the abovestated such that the electrical wires 326 are securely maintained in relative position to the electrically conductive rods 324 is by having the electrical wires 326 attached to respective rods 324 at one end and to the covering 328 at the other. As best illustrated in Fig. 7 the covering 328 further includes threaded pegs 334 whereby the electrical wires 326 are wrapped therearound at one end, each to a respective threaded peg 334.

[0054] Another possible way of ensuring the pair of wires 326 only make contact with one of the pair of rods 324 respectively is by providing an insulation tube (not shown) over a portion of each rod 324. More specifically, an insulation tube is secured onto each rod 324 at the desired location of attachment of the respective wires 326 such that one end of each electrical wire 326 is wrapped around respective insulation tubes. The insulation tubes prevent the creation of an electrically conductive pathway. [0055] It should be stated that the electrically conductive rods 324 can differ in length so as to economize on material usage. As depicted in Fig. 4, one of the electrically conductive rods 324 only extends within the first reservoir 116 connected to a single electrical wire 326. In such a case, a single insulation tube is required for the longest of the pair of electrically conductive rods 324 as it interacts with both of the electrical wires 326 yet must only make contact with one of the pair. [0056] Moreover, the core component 300 is designed such that the first and second reservoirs 116 and 118 respectively, partitioned by the partitioning segment 314,

are each independently exposed to an electrical current derived from the pair of electrodes 322 in interaction with the electrically conductive rods 324 and wires 326. Hence, the buffer solution contained in the first and second reservoirs, 116 and 118, during the electrophoresis experiment gets electrically charged.

[0057] As a preferred embodiment of this invention, the partitioning segment 314 is positioned between the two electrical wires 326. One of the electrical wires 326 is positioned within the confines of the first reservoir 116 delineated by the partitioning segment 314 and the other electrical wire 326 is positioned within the confines of second reservoir 118.

[0058] As the buffer solution contained in each reservoir becomes oppositely charged by an application of electrical potential resulting from the pair of electrodes 322 in interaction with the electrically conductive rods 324 and wires 326, it is desirable to maintain the cathode and anode buffers substantially isolated from each other. Consequently, it is advantageous to keep the first reservoir 116 hermetically sealed from the second reservoir 118 for accurate electrophoretic separation.

[0059] Referring to Figs. 3, 5 and 6, the hermetic seal is created by a sealing member. In the present exemplary embodiment, the sealing member consists of a pair of sealing strips 336 incorporated on the pore component 300, and more particularly laterally positioned on the partitioning segment 314. A preferred material for the sealing strips 336 is an expanded ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. [0060] The partitioning segment 314 with sealing strips 336 is propitiously suited to create a hermetic seal upon insertion of the core component 300 into the buffer tank 100 (Fig. 2 and 12) . The sealing strips 336 come into contact with- the gel slab assemblies 200 such that when the core component 300 is locked into place the sealing strips 336 are pressed up against the gel slab assemblies 200 forming a

seal. Thus, the first reservoir is circumscribed by the partitioning segment 314 and the gel slab assemblies 200. [0061] In further detail, the core component 300 is designed such that when locked into place in the buffer tank 100, the partitioning segment 314 with sealing strips 336 is relatively positioned with respect to the gel slab assemblies 200. Particularly, the sealing strips 336 make contact with ^' the gel slab assemblies 200 just below the reservoirs of the gel cassettes (not shown) taught in U.S. Patent 6,379,519Bl previously mentioned. Essentially, the sealing strips 336 are positioned so as to apply pressure to the strongest area of the gel cassettes, which is just below the reservoirs .

[0062] Another important aspect pertaining to the position of the sealing strips 336 with respect to the gel slab assemblies 200 is that the latter act as a background to the zone of sample application during experimentation. The sealing strips 336 are preferably provided in white so as to contrast with the color of the samples applied into the reservoirs of the gel cassettes, thus, improving visibility.

[0063] In addition, the fact that the sealing strips 336 form a hermetic seal at the base of the reservoirs of the gel cassettes is advantageous when considering heat dissipation. For improved validity of experimental results, it is desirable to help disperse heat generated within the cassettes as well to maintain a homogeneous temperature therein. For example, if the sealing strips 336 formed a seal along the perimeter of the gel cassettes the results near the edges of the gel cassettes would thereby be affected. Thus, by providing the seal at the zone of sample application the effects of improper heat dissipation due to the contact pressure of the sealing strips 336 on the gel cassettes are less harmful to the overall results . [0064] Even more, by reducing the overall area of contact forming the hermetic seal in the present embodiment, the

likelihood of leakage occurring between the isolated first and second reservoirs 116, 118 decreases.

[0065] Now referring concurrently to Figs. 2 and 6, preferably the core component 300 further includes as an additional feature: stoppers 338 that act to refrain the gel slab assemblies 200 from potentially being withdrawn from the buffer tank 100 during experimentation. As illustrated, the stoppers 338 are provided as part of the vertical side portions 320 of the partitioning segment 314 integral thereto. However, this is an exemplary embodiment and it should be understood that many possible alternatives exist that would prevent the gel slab assemblies 200 from being retractable from the buffer tank 100 during experimentation. [0066] Now, the manufacturing method of the core component 300 of the present exemplary embodiment will be described in detail. The core component 300 comprising the partitioning segment 314, the electrode assembly 316 and the locking mechanisms 302 is preferably manufactured as an integral component.

[0067] Beginning first with the electrode assembly 316: it is provided as a pre-assembled piece of the core component 300. Firstly, the covering 328 having top and bottom guards 330, 332, and pegs 334 is moulded to receive the electrical components in a rectangular shape as best illustrated in Fig. 7.

[0068] At this point it should be stated that the following steps of manufacturing the electrode assembly are not presented in any specific order. One step involves positioning the pair of electrical wires 326 within the top and bottom guards 330 and 332,TeSPeCtIVeIy. In another step, each wire 326 is attached at one end to a respective peg 334 with the other end left free. In a further step, the pair of electrically conductive rods 324 is snapped into the covering 328 such that each makes contact with respective free ends of the wires 326. In still another step, the pair of electrodes is attached to respective rods 324. An exemplary attachment means is by way of the electrically

conductive rods 324 each having a threaded portion for receiving respective electrodes 322 such that the latter are screwed thereon.

[0069] Once the electrode assembly 316 has been pre- assembled, it is set in a standardized mould to undergo injection molding to make the partitioning segment 314 with or without the locking mechanisms 302 (in the event that they are included on the lid 400) integral thereto. The injection molding process creates the core component 300 as a single part having the pre-assembled electrode assembly 316 united with the partitioning segment 314 and the locking mechanisms 302. For example, the locking mechanisms 302 can be part of the vertical side portions 320 of the partitioning segment 314.

[0070] Notably, the same method of manufacturing is possible for core component 300 with locking mechanisms 302'; however an extra step is required following injection moulding whereby the rocking spring loaded arms are mounted to the vertical side portions 320 acting as the casings 312' as they are independent pieces.

[0071] Finally, the sealing strips 336 are added to the core component 300 on the partitioning segment 314 and secured thereto.

[0072] Generally, the core component 300 can be manufactured by a number of techniques such as by way of casting rather than injection moulding, and can be made from a variety of materials.

[0073] Next, as shown in Figs. 1 through 4, the lid 400 is adapted to be securely assembled to the buffer tank 100 primarily for safety reasons but also to provide protection to the electrophoresis apparatus during experimentation. Essentially, the lid 400 protects a user of the apparatus by shielding the user from the electrified solution in the buffer tank 100 and particularly in the upper or first reservoir 116. The lid 400 comprises a cover body 402, an aperture 404, and a pair of electrode adapters 406. The cover body 402 is preferably formed to have a handle 408

over an opening 410, the opening 410 for facilitating handling. Also, as previously stated the lid 400 can include the locking mechanisms 302 or 302' but will be described from hereon without.

[0074] The pair of electrode adapters 406 is "female" type adapters that mate with the pair of electrodes 316 when the lid 400 is assembled onto the buffer tank 100. Thus, the electrodes 322 with electrode adapters 406 thereon can be connected to a positive and negative power source (not shown) in a safe manner.

[0075] Another possible feature of the electrode adapters 406 is that they can be differentiated by colors. For example, one of the adapters 406 can be in red indicative of the positive terminal of the power source while the other adapter 406 can be in black indicative of the negative terminal.

[0076] Additionally, the lid 400 alternatively has a first configuration for receiving a portion of the locking mechanisms 302 or a second configuration for receiving a portion of the locking mechanisms 302' . The said portions of either embodiment protrude through a corresponding aperture (404 indicates the aperture required for the first embodiment) , intended for this purpose. Note that the lid 400 is only illustrated for the first embodiment of the locking mechanisms '302; however, the same applies for the second embodiment with locking mechanisms 302' and a corresponding aperture. The aperture 404 acts as a means of preventing the occurrence of an accidental disengagement of the locking mechanisms 302, as above-described. Such an occurrence could potentially destroy the hermetic seal formed between the core component 300 and the gel slab assemblies 200. Thus, the first reservoir 116 would no longer be isolated from the second reservoir 118 resulting in deterioration in electrophoretic separation. [0077] A further function of the aperture 404 is to ensure proper orientation of the lid 400 with respect to the mating of the electrode adapters 406 with the pair of

electrodes 322. As the electrode adapters 406 are designated to interact with specific terminals of a power source by a color code, a single lid orientation ensures that the electrodes 322 each receive the charge intended therefor. [0078] Notably, with the locking mechanisms 302 or 302' included, as part of the lid 400, the aperture's only function is to ensure proper orientation thereof.

ELECTRO-BLOT TRANSFER EMBODIMENT

[0079] Referring now to Figs. 13 and 14, an exemplary embodiment of an electro-blot transfer apparatus 10' according to the present invention is illustrated. A significant attribute of the present invention lies in the fact that the buffer tank 100 and the lid 400 (not shown) are the same components as described in the electrophoresis embodiment. However, instead of the same gel slab assemblies 200, the electro-blot transfer embodiment comprises electro- blot sandwiches 500 as will be below-described. The core component 600 of this embodiment ₍ is similarly received by the buffer tank 100, yet the component itself has different elements. Basically, the interacting relationships between the main elements of the electro-blot transfer apparatus are very similar to the electrophoresis apparatus. The differences in the elements and interacting relationships that render the apparatus functionable for another process will now be described in detail.

[0080] As shown in Figs. 13 and 14, the electro-blot sandwiches 500 have substantially the same dimensions as the gel slab assemblies 200 except for a slightly smaller width; thus the sandwiches 500 are received in the buffer tank in a similar fashion as in the previous embodiment. The interacting relationship between the buffer tank 100 and the sandwiches 500 remains the same.

[0081] The electro-blot sandwiches 500 each comprises a gel slab and an electro-blot membrane (not shown) within a case 502 (Figs. 13 and 14) . The case 502 is designed to support the gel slab and electro-blot membrane, keeping them

in close contact to assure that a complete transfer of bands will occur with no significant loss in resolution, as is desired for this type of detection method.

[0082] Moreover, the case 502 is made up of a first tray 504 hinged to a second tray 506 such that the trays 504 and 506 can be joined together or separated apart for easy access to the gel slab electro-blot membrane combination supported therein. Thus, the case 502 aids in facilitating the task of assembling and disassembling the gel slab electro-blot membrane combination.

[0083] To further clarify, the gel slab electro-blot membrane combination is inserted into the case 502 when the trays 504 and 506 are apart. The gel slab electro-blot membrane combination is positioned against the first tray 504 and subsequently the case 502 is closed by joining the second tray 506, which pivots about the hinge, to the first tray 504.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the electro-blot sandwiches 500 are inserted into the buffer tank 100 guided by the previously described angled supports 112 such that the second tray 506 of each case 502 faces inwardly with respect to the buffer tank 100 (Fig. 13) . Thus, the second trays 506 of each case 502 face each other following inclusion.

[0085] Now, still referring to Figs. 13 and 14, the core component 600 is depicted in interaction with the buffer tank 100 and the electro-blot sandwiches 500. The core component 600 of this embodiment also includes an electrode assembly 316 having a pair of electrodes 622 connected to respective electrically conductive rods 624 that are attached to respective wires 626. The electrodes 616 interact with the electrically conductive rods 624 and wires 626 to create an electrical field across the electro-blot sandwiches 500, the field being substantially perpendicular thereto.

[0086] One way to create the electric field across a sandwich 500 is by having an electrical conductor on both

sides of the case 502. In the present embodiment the electro-blot transfer apparatus is .customized to perform the experiment on two electro-blot sandwiches 500 however, experimenting on a single sandwich 500 with the apparatus is also possible.

[0087] Referring to Fig. 14, generally it can be seen that the electrode assembly 616 has a pair of electrically conductive rods 624 attached to three electrical wires 626. Each rod 624 and electrical wire 626 is preferably protected by a covering 628 similarly to that of the electrophoresis embodiment. The electrode assembly 616 is configured such that one electrical wire 626 is adjacent the first tray 504, disposed between the first tray 504 and the base 102 of the buffer tank 100. The electrode assembly 616 is symmetrical to enable experimentation on a second electro-blot sandwich 500, thus the electrode assembly 616 includes a second wire 626 in mirroring relation to the first. The remaining electrical wire 626 is centrally located in the buffer tank 100 between the second trays 506.

[0088] Moreover, the wires 626 are preferably positioned horizontally, perpendicular to the sagital plane A shown for the electrophoresis embodiment, and are attached to the vertical rods 624 that extend parallel to the sagital plane A. In addition, the pair of electrodes 622 is vertically connected to the top of the electrically conductive rods 624 in a direction pointing out of the buffer tank 100. [0089] In an alternative embodiment of the electro-blot transfer apparatus, the core component 300 is utilized rather than core component 600. Essentially, the residing difference between the two experimental applications is that the sealing strips due not come into contact with the electro-blot sandwiches 500 to form a hermetic seal. Thus the buffer tank is not partitioned in a first and second reservoir.

[0090] With regard to manufacturability, the core component 600 can be molded as a single piece similarly to the manufacturing method of the electrophoresis embodiment

previously described. Advantageously, manufacturing the core component 600 as' a single piece reduces assembly time as well as overall costs.

[0091] Notably, the core component 600 can also comprise a pair of locking mechanisms (not shown) the same as either of the two previously mentioned embodiments (302 or 302') . The lid 400, however, remains identical to that of the electrophoresis apparatus with or without a ' locking mechanism on the core component 600. The only difference resides in the interacting relationship between the core component 600 and the lid 400 in that the core receiving aperture 404 are not utilized in the absence of the locking mechanisms 302 but act only as a means of properly orienting the lid 400.

[0092] As should be apparent from the above detailed description, the present invention provides significant advantages over conventional electrophoresis and electro- blot apparatuses . An ^" advantage being that the present invention can be assembled in either an electrophoresis configuration or an electro-blot transfer configuration whereby the same buffer tank and lid can be used, and even the same core component.

[0093] Another advantage being that the present invention can be sold as a kit including: a buffer tank, both core components herein described that are required to carry out the two different experiments, and a lid. The gel cassette and cassette holder of U.S. Patent 6,379,519 Bl and case described herewith for supporting a gel slab and electro- blot membrane combination can also potentially be included in the kit. Consequently, the overall cost of purchasing the electrophoresis/electro-blot transfer kit would be considerably less than having to purchase two separate apparatuses.

[0094] Still another advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the locking mechanism is integral to the core component. The core component is easy to insert and locks automatically upon inclusion to the buffer tank

ensuring that the hermetic seal is formed creating first and second reservoirs. Also, the automatic locking feature of the core component prevents it from being forced too far into the buffer tank potentially damaging the gel slab assemblies. Incorporating the locking mechanisms as part of the core component design facilitates assembly by reducing the total amount of components that need to be assembled before experimentation can begin.

[0095] A further advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the electrode assembly is part of the core component, which is removable from the buffer tank. This feature of the invention enables the buffer tank to be cleaned easily without risk of damaging the electrical wires. Hence, the cleaning process required for the present apparatus is more efficient than the process required cleaning devices with the electrodes and electrical conductors comprised in the buffer tank.

[0096] Still a further advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the core component and more particularly the electrode assembly is designed so as to minimize the length of the electrical wires as they are typically made of platinum, which is a relatively expensive material to purchase.

[0097] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the method of manufacturing the core component as an integral part is simplistic, thus eliminating unnecessary attachment means between parts. As a result, the method of manufacturing is an efficient way of fabricating a versatile core component with' an inbuilt electrode assembly and locking mechanism. Consequently, improved efficiency inherently reduces time and lowers costs involved in manufacturing an apparatus.

[0098] Although the present electrophoresis/electro-blot transfer apparatus has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the disclosure has been made by way of example only and that the present invention is not limited to the features of the embodiments

described and illustrated herein, but includes all variations and modifications within the scope and spirits of the invention as hereinafter claimed.