DETECTION APPARATUS FOR MULTIPLE HETEROGENEOUS CHEMILUMINESCENCE IMMUNOASSAY CONFIGURATIONS

We describe an apparatus for measuring signals emanated from two heterogeneous chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) configurations: antibody-coated polystyrene beads, in reaction tray wells, and microparticles captured by a porous matrix. An optics and fluidics design which allows the use of a common detection head for these two different assay configurations is described. The detection head moves along three Cartesian coordinates to create a localized light-tight compartment around each individual disposable reaction vessel. Reproducibility of the light seal, trigger solution delivery, and mixing is achieved for acridinium-labeled CLIA. The coated polystyrene beads configuration is tested using βHCG, CEA, and TSH assays. The microparticle-capture configuration is tested using βHCG and HBsAg assays. The microparticle capture CLIA has shorter incubation times and the potential for ease of automation. © 1991.