JP2007089566A - Microorganism separating device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a microorganism separating device capable of selectively separating a target microorganism from sample water with good accuracy and recovering the microorganism. <P>SOLUTION: This microorganism separating device is equipped with a microchip 20 for capturing the target microorganism contained in the sample water, a sample water supply means 19 for supplying the sample water to the microchip 20, and a sample water suction means 21 for sucking the sample water from the microchip 20. The microchip 20 has a flat plate substrate 10 on which a flow channel 11 having a fluid supply port 13, a fluid suction port 15, and a fluid discharge port 14 are formed and a capturing part 12 positioned on the fluid suction port 15 of the flat plate substrate 10. The capturing part 12 of the microchips has a plurality of open holes 12a each having a diameter smaller than a minimum diameter of the target microorganism. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention selectively captures specific microorganisms from sample water containing microorganisms in water supply raw water quality management, purified water quality management, other water treatment water quality management, environmental water quality management, food sanitation management, aquaculture facility management, etc. The present invention relates to a microorganism separation apparatus for separation and recovery.

  Microorganisms are detected in the inspection of purified water quality in waterworks, food inspection, process control of food processing facilities, and water quality inspection of aquaculture and fishery facilities. In each of these tests, pathogenic microorganisms have a particularly strong influence, and pathogenic microorganisms may cause health damage to humans by spreading through treated water and products. Therefore, there is a demand for detection of pathogenic microorganisms to be detected or microorganisms that are indicators of pathogenic microorganisms. Concomitantly, a microorganism separation / recovery process is required as a pre-detection step.

  A conventional technique for detecting microorganisms is generally a method of observing colony formation by culture.

Although this method has an advantage that it can be easily performed, it takes time to obtain a result, and there is a problem that skill is required for operation. In addition, protozoa such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia, which are problematic in water purification plants, are difficult to detect by the above culture method.

  In recent years, methods for detecting and identifying microorganisms using molecular biological techniques using genes, DNA, antigens, etc. possessed by living organisms have been proposed. These techniques target base sequences and antigens unique to the target organism, and can selectively detect the target organism and selectively detect the target organism. However, DNA fragments, antibodies, and the like used in these techniques may adsorb microorganisms other than the target microorganism and impurities such as turbidity non-specifically, causing erroneous recognition. Actually, the target microorganism does not exist in a pure state in the sample water, but coexists with many other microorganisms and suspended substances. Therefore, it is difficult to completely eliminate misrecognition.

  As described above, the target microorganism does not exist in a pure state in the sample water, but coexists with many other microorganisms and suspended substances. Therefore, in order to improve detection accuracy, it is necessary to selectively separate and collect target microorganisms from the sample water. In addition, the above-mentioned protozoa such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia can cause great human damage even if the amount of microorganisms is small. Therefore, it is required to separate and recover only the diluted microorganisms present in the sample water.

Further, conventionally, observation has been performed using a microscope when detecting microorganisms. In order to perform microscopic observation, a slide glass, a membrane disk filter, or the like is used as an immobilization plate. For this reason, the target observation area may be relatively large (Patent Documents 1 and 2).
Japanese Patent Publication No. 5-88417 Japanese Patent No. 3422402

  In this case, in order to improve the efficiency of the work, an image processing technique is applied at the time of observation. However, in applying the image processing technique, a stage scanning mechanism for moving the microscope visual field or scanning with excitation laser light is used. A mechanism is required. Therefore, there is a problem that the apparatus is increased in size and cost, and the response is delayed by the time required for scanning.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of such points, and by using a microchip to which microfabrication technology is applied, microorganisms to be detected are selectively captured at a specific position in a minute region. An object of the present invention is to provide a microorganism separation device that can be separated.

  The present invention relates to a microorganism separation apparatus for separating and recovering target microorganisms contained in sample water, a flat substrate in which a flow channel including a fluid supply port and a fluid suction port is formed, and a fluid suction port of the flat substrate. A microchip having a plurality of through holes each having a diameter smaller than the minimum diameter of the target microorganism, a sample water suction means connected to the microchip capture section for sucking sample water, and a microchip flat plate A microorganism separation apparatus comprising: a sample water supply unit that is connected to a fluid supply port of a substrate and supplies sample water.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to effectively guide the target microorganism to the capturing part of the microchip. In addition, the target microorganism can be separated and collected from the continuously circulating sample water by the capturing unit in a short time, and the target microorganism can be held at a specific position.

  The present invention is a microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that an antibody that specifically recognizes an antigen of a target microorganism is provided in a through-hole of a flat substrate.

  According to the present invention, the target microorganism can be effectively separated, recovered and held in the through hole of the capturing part.

  The present invention provides a magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means for specifically recognizing an antigen of a target microorganism and supplying an antibody labeled with a magnetic substance to sample water, and a magnetic substance supplied from the magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means A microorganism separation apparatus, further comprising a reaction unit that reacts with a labeled antibody and a microorganism antigen, and having a material that attracts a magnetic substance in a through hole of a flat substrate.

  The present invention provides a magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means for specifically recognizing an antigen of a target microorganism and supplying an antibody labeled with a magnetic substance to sample water, and a magnetic substance supplied from the magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means A microorganism separation apparatus, further comprising: a reaction unit that reacts with a labeled antibody and a microorganism antigen; and a magnetic application unit that generates magnetism for attracting a magnetic substance is provided in the through hole of the flat plate substrate. is there.

  The present invention relates to a microorganism separation apparatus for separating and recovering target microorganisms contained in sample water, a flat substrate in which a flow channel including a fluid supply port and a fluid suction port is formed, and a fluid suction port of the flat substrate. A microchip having a plurality of through holes provided in the membrane, a membrane filter provided on the surface of the microchip on the fluid suction port side, and provided on the surface of the membrane filter opposite to the microchip, A microorganism separation apparatus comprising: sample water suction means for sucking sample water; and sample water supply means connected to a fluid supply port of a flat substrate to supply sample water.

  According to the present invention, the target microorganism can be fixed at a specific position corresponding to the through hole on the membrane filter, and the microchip can be used repeatedly, so that the cost can be reduced.

  In the present invention, the flow channel of the flat substrate of the microchip has a fluid discharge port, and the circulation unit for collecting the sample water that has passed through the flow channel and returning it to the sample water supply unit is connected to the fluid discharge port. A microorganism separation apparatus characterized by the above.

  According to the present invention, the sample water that has once passed through the microchip can be recovered and returned to the sample water supply means, and the target microorganisms that have passed without being captured by the capture portion of the microchip are again supplied to the capture portion. And the recovery rate can be improved.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device further comprising a physical application unit for applying energy to the microchip.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it becomes possible to remove efficiently microorganisms other than the target microorganism remaining in the through-hole of a microchip, and particulate matter, and can isolate | separate and collect | recover target microorganisms effectively. .

  The present invention is a microorganism separation apparatus further comprising a cleaning liquid supply means for flowing a cleaning liquid through a flow channel of a microchip.

  According to the present invention, microorganisms other than the target microorganism remaining in the through hole and particulate matter can be efficiently removed by the cleaning liquid.

  The present invention provides a microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that a fractionation processing means for fractionating target microorganisms and other particles contained in the sample water supplied to the microchip by size is provided in a stage preceding the sample water supply means. It is.

  According to the present invention, the target microorganism concentration in the sample water supplied to the microchip can be increased by fractionating the target microorganism and other particles contained in the sample water in advance according to the particle diameter, and the target microorganism By removing the one having a smaller particle diameter in advance, blockage of the through hole can be reduced, and efficient recovery can be achieved.

  The present invention provides a microbe separation apparatus for separating and recovering a specific target microorganism in sample water, a plate-like microchip having a through-hole having a smaller pore diameter than the target microorganism, and a top surface of the microchip. A first support having a first flow channel, and a second support having a second flow channel disposed on the lower surface of the microchip, the first flow channel of the first support And the second flow channel of the second support body can communicate with each other through a through hole of the microchip.

  In the present invention, the first flow channel of the first support has a supply port that opens outward, and the second flow channel of the second support has a discharge port that opens outward. This is a microorganism separation apparatus.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the through hole of the microchip is formed by laser processing.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the first and second supports are made of a transparent body.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the target microorganism is Cryptosporidium.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the narrowest part of the through hole has a diameter of 2 to 3 μm.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the thickness of the microchip is 5 to 50 μm.

  The present invention is a microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that the microchip is provided with a physical cleaning means for cleaning the microchip.

  The present invention is a microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that a cleaning liquid supply means for flowing a cleaning liquid to the microchip is connected to the microchip.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device characterized in that the inner surface of the first flow channel is hydrophilized.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent microorganisms contained in the sample water from adhering to the first flow channel.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the hydrophilization treatment for the inner surface of the first flow channel of the first support includes plasma treatment.

  According to the present invention, the plasma treatment introduces hydrophilic groups to the surface of the flow channel portion, improves the flowability of the sample water, and reduces the adsorption of microorganisms.

  The present invention is characterized in that the hydrophilic treatment for the inner surface of the first flow channel of the first support includes a plasma treatment and a coating treatment with an anionic surfactant after the plasma treatment. It is a microorganism separation device.

  According to the present invention, the plasma treatment improves the flowability by improving the hydrophilicity of the flow path, and the surface potential is negatively charged by coating the surface with an anionic surfactant. The adsorption of microorganisms such as Cryptosporidium can be reduced.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation device, wherein the first support and the second support are made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily manufacture a complicated flow path by using polydimethylsiloxane that is transparent and has good moldability, and has the effect of preventing the adhesion of microorganisms by plasma treatment and surfactant coating. Obtainable.

  The present invention is a microorganism separation apparatus further comprising means for removing algae.

  According to the present invention, since it has the same particle size as Cryptosporidium and emits autofluorescence, it is possible to improve the observation accuracy by removing algae that interfere with Cryptosporidium fluorescence observation.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that the means for removing algae comprises a dissolution treatment means using an enzyme.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that the means for removing algae uses lysozyme as an enzyme.

  According to the present invention, algal cells can be destroyed by using lysozyme having a lytic action and cleaving a sugar chain constituting a cell wall. At this time, lysozyme does not destroy the oocyst wall of Cryptosporidium, and therefore does not interfere with fluorescence observation of Cryptosporidium.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that the means for removing algae uses protease as an enzyme.

  According to the present invention, algal cells can be destroyed by using a protease, which is a proteolytic enzyme, and decomposing a protein constituting the cell wall. At this time, since the protease does not destroy the oocyst wall of Cryptosporidium, it does not interfere with the fluorescence observation of Cryptosporidium.

  The present invention is the microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that the lysis treatment with an enzyme as a means for removing algae comprises a treatment with a mixed solution of lysozyme and protease.

  According to the present invention, algal cells can be more effectively destroyed by using two types of enzymes having different actions.

  The present invention is a microorganism separation apparatus characterized in that an enzyme solution supply means for supplying an enzyme solution to a microchip is connected.

  According to the present invention, the enzyme solution can be automatically supplied to the microchip, and a continuous automatic device can be realized.

  As described above, according to the microorganism separation device of the present invention, the target microorganism can be selectively separated and collected from the sample water at a patterned position.

  Further, according to the present invention, only a specific target microorganism can be quickly and reliably separated and recovered from the sample water.

  According to the present invention, microorganisms in sample water can be collected in the microchip portion without adhering to the flow channel. In addition, according to the present invention, it is possible to improve the observation accuracy of fluorescently stained Cryptosporidium by removing algae.

1-1 Embodiment A first embodiment of a microorganism separation apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  Here, FIG. 1A is a plan view showing a microchip, FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX ′ of FIG. 1A, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a capturing part of the microchip. FIG. 3 is an overall schematic view showing a microorganism separation apparatus.

  The microorganism separation device according to the present invention separates and collects target microorganisms contained in sample water.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the microorganism separation apparatus includes a flat substrate 10 in which a flow channel 11 including a fluid supply port 13, a fluid suction port 15, and a fluid discharge port 14 is formed, and a fluid of the flat substrate 10. And a microorganism capturing part 12 having a plurality of through holes 12a which are provided in the suction port 15 and are smaller than the minimum diameter of the target microorganism.

  Among these, the microchip 20 is comprised by the flat substrate 10 and the microorganism capture | acquisition part 12. FIG.

  In addition, a fluid suction device (sample water suction means) 21 for sucking sample water is connected to the microorganism capturing unit 12 of the microchip 20, and sample water is further supplied to the fluid supply port 13 of the microchip 20 to the microchip 20 side. A sample water supply pump (sample water supply means) 19 is connected via a sample water supply line 16. Further, a sample water supply valve 17 and a sample water reservoir tank 18 are sequentially connected from the upstream side to the downstream side of the sample water supply line 16 at a stage preceding the sample water supply pump 19.

  A sample water discharge valve 22 is attached to the fluid discharge port 14 of the microchip 20.

  Next, the configuration of the microchip 20 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the microchip 20 mainly includes a flat substrate 10 on which a flow channel 11 having a fluid supply port 13, a fluid discharge port 14, and a fluid suction port 15 is formed, and a microorganism capturing unit. Among these, the microorganism capturing part 12 is formed with a large number of microorganism capturing holes (through holes) 12a.

  In FIG. 1, sample water containing the target microorganism is introduced into the flow channel 11 from the fluid supply port 13 by an external sample water supply pump 19. As the sample water supply pump 19 for this purpose, a micro pump capable of controlling a minute flow rate such as a tube pump or a plunger pump is applicable. In particular, since the particulate matter containing microorganisms is contained in the sample water, it is desirable to apply the pump that is also suitable for feeding turbidity.

  As a material of the flat substrate 10 and the microorganism capturing part 12 constituting the microchip 20, silicon, metal, plastic, glass, a ceramic substrate, or the like can be used. The flow channel 11 and the microorganism capturing hole 12a of the flat substrate 10 are manufactured by a method combining photolithography and chemical etching, laser processing, micromachining technology, or the like.

  Further, the sample water containing the target microorganism flows through the flow channel 11, is introduced into the microorganism capturing unit 12, and is sucked in the microorganism capturing unit 12 by the fluid suction port 15 sucked by the fluid suction device 21. At that time, the target microorganism is captured in the capture hole 12a. The flow channel 11 on the fluid discharge port 14 side after the microorganism capturing unit 12 may be closed.

  In FIG. 2, the shape of the microorganism capturing part 12 and the microorganism capturing hole 12a of the microchip 20 manufactured for the purpose of selectively capturing Cryptosporidium is shown as an example. The microorganism capturing hole 12 a is processed at a patterned position of the microorganism capturing part 12.

  Cryptosporidium is a spherical microorganism having a diameter of about 5 μm, and the diameter of the inlet opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a is 10 to 30 μm in order to capture this. The diameter of the microorganism capturing hole 12a decreases from the inlet opening at the part in contact with the sample water in the depth direction, and the minimum diameter is 1 μm. In the depth direction beyond this, the diameter of the microorganism capturing hole 12a is 1 μm and is processed as a through hole. The length of the microorganism capturing hole 12a in the depth direction is 10 μm from the inlet opening to the position of the minimum diameter. Since the size of Cryptosporidium is about 5 μm in diameter, the depth from the inlet opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a to the position of the minimum diameter is required to be 5 μm or more, and preferably 10 μm or more. The depth to the outlet opening at a deeper position is 10 μm, but is not particularly limited.

  The microorganism capturing holes 12a are arranged at intervals of 30 μm, and the material of the microorganism capturing part 12 is made of a SUS substrate. Moreover, although the circular shape was set in FIG. 2 about the shape of the inlet opening part of the microorganisms capture hole 12a, and an outlet opening part, a shape is not ask | required in particular and it is good also as a polygon. The shape of the minimum diameter portion is not particularly limited, but the minimum diameter is 1 μm.

Moreover, in FIG. 2, in the through-hole part of the microorganism capture hole 12a deeper from the smallest diameter part toward the outlet opening part, it is processed with the same diameter as the smallest diameter, but there is no need to specifically limit it. For example, the diameter may be increased from the smallest diameter portion to the outlet opening.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment having such a configuration will be described. The sample water is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank 18 through the sample water supply line 16 and through the sample water supply valve 17. After introducing a predetermined amount of sample water into the sample water reservoir tank 18, the sample water supply valve 17 is closed, and the sample water is supplied from the sample water supply tank 19 to the flow channel 11 of the microchip 20 by the sample water supply pump 19. .

  The sample water is introduced from the flow channel 11 of the microchip 20 into the microorganism capturing unit 12, and the sample water introduced into the microorganism capturing unit 12 is sucked through the microorganism capturing hole 12 a by the fluid suction device 21. At this time, the target microorganism contained in the sample water is captured in the microorganism capturing hole 12a, and microorganisms and substances smaller than the diameter of the minimum diameter portion of the microorganism capturing hole 12a pass through the microorganism capturing hole 12a, and are sucked and discharged. The In this process, the particulate matter containing the target microorganism is captured in the microorganism capturing hole.

  In this case, it is also possible to confirm on the microchip 20 whether the target microorganism is actually captured. That is, the particulate matter containing the target microorganism is captured at a patterned position of the microchip 20. For example, when the flat substrate 10 of the microchip 20 is made of a transparent material, observation with a microscope can be performed. Only a specific position can be observed.

  Furthermore, when detecting a target microorganism or specifying the type of organism, a detection method based on biological information using an antigen / antibody binding reaction or a DNA hybridization reaction can be performed on the microchip 20. It is. For example, a labeled antibody labeled with a fluorescent or luminescent dye on an antibody that recognizes the target microorganism as an antigen, or a labeled DNA probe labeled with a fluorescent or luminescent dye on a DNA probe that specifically binds to DNA or RNA contained in the target organism A supply means may be provided, and the supply means may supply the labeled antibody and the labeled DNA probe to the microchip 20 to the microchip capturing unit. As a result, target microorganisms can be selectively stained, and they can be observed using a fluorescence microscope.

1-2 Embodiment Next, a 1-2 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the 1-2 embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the same parts as those in the 1-1 embodiment shown in FIGS. FIG. 4 shows a configuration example in the case of incorporating a sample water circulation mechanism into the microchip.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a circulation line 23 a to which a sample water circulation valve 23 is attached is connected to the outlet side of the fluid discharge port 14, and the circulation line 23 a communicates with the sample water reservoir tank 18. The circulation line 23a and the sample water circulation valve 23 constitute a circulation means. The sample water is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank 18 through the sample water supply line 16 and through the sample water supply valve 17.

  After introducing a predetermined amount of sample water into the sample water reservoir tank 18, the sample water supply valve 17 is closed, and the sample water is supplied from the sample water reservoir tank 18 to the microchip 20 by the sample water supply pump 19. The sample water introduced into the microorganism capturing part 12 of the microchip 20 is sucked by the fluid suction device 21 through the microorganism capturing hole 12a. The target microorganism contained in the sample water is captured in the microorganism capturing hole 12a. Microorganisms and substances smaller than the diameter of the minimum diameter portion of the microorganism capturing hole 12a pass through the microorganism capturing hole 12a and are sucked and discharged. The sample water that has passed through the microorganism capturing part 12 without being sucked on the microorganism capturing hole 12 a side is discharged from the fluid drain port 14.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the discharged liquid is returned again to the sample water reservoir tank 18 and supplied to the microchip 20 again. In this circulation step, the sample water circulation valve 23 is opened and the sample water discharge valve 22 is closed. After repeating the circulation for a predetermined time, the sample water circulation valve 23 and the sample water discharge valve 22 are closed, and all the sample water is sucked by the suction device 21 through the microorganism capturing hole 12a. Alternatively, after circulation for a predetermined time, the sample water circulation valve 22 is closed, the sample water discharge valve 22 is opened, and the remaining liquid is discharged. In this circulation process, the particulate matter containing microorganisms passes through the microorganism capturing part 12 of the microchip a plurality of times, and the capturing efficiency is improved.

1-3 Embodiment Next, a 1-3 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The first to third embodiments shown in FIG. 5 are different from the first to first embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except for the configuration of the microorganism capturing unit 12. In the first to third embodiments shown in FIG. 5, the same parts as those in the first to first embodiments shown in FIGS.

FIG. 5 shows a conceptual diagram of the microorganism trapping hole. A microorganism capturing antibody 24 that specifically recognizes the antigen of the target microorganism is immobilized at the inlet portion of the microorganism capturing hole 12 a of the microorganism capturing section 12 provided in the microchip 20. In the microchip 20, the sample water containing the target microorganism is sucked by the fluid suction device 21 through the microorganism capturing hole 12 a of the microorganism capturing unit 12. At that time, the target microorganism 25 is specifically captured by the microorganism capturing antibody 24 fixed to the inlet opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a.

  In general, using an antibody to improve selectivity for an organism is the most effective technique. By immobilizing the antibody at the inlet opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a, the target microorganism that has reached the microorganism capturing hole can be firmly captured and held. For example, when the target microorganism is Cryptosporidium, the immobilization of the anti-Cryptosporidium antibody on the silicon substrate can be realized by the technique shown in the following example.

  First, a 10% KOH-ethanol solution is dropped onto a microorganism trapping portion of a silicon substrate on which a microorganism trapping hole has been prepared, left to stand for 30 minutes, washed, dried with argon gas, and then added to a 2% -METPTES (3-mercaptopropyl trisilane) toluene solution. Immerse for a minute. After washing and drying with argon gas, the sample is immersed in a 1 mM-GMBS (N- (γ-maleimidebutyroxy) succinimide ester) ethanol solution for 30 minutes.

After washing, 0.5 mg / ml-Strptavidin is added dropwise and incubated overnight. After immersion in Blocking buffer (1% -BSA, 0.01% -NaN3) for 20 minutes or longer, Biotin-labeled anti-cryptospodium antibody mixed in Deposition buffer (10 mM-PBS + 10 mM-NaCl + 10 mM-Sucrose, 0.1% BSA) An anti-cryptospodium antibody is introduced into the capture hole by spotting the capture hole.

  Since the binding between the antibody and the organism is strong, it is desirable to limit the fixing site of the antibody within the microorganism capturing hole 12a as much as possible. However, even when an antibody is fixed outside the microorganism capturing hole 12a, the energy required for desorption differs between the outside of the microorganism capturing hole 12a and the inside of the microorganism capturing hole 12a. It becomes possible to preferentially collect the target microorganism in the microorganism capturing hole 12a.

1-4 Embodiment Next, a 1-4 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. In the first to fourth embodiments shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the same parts as those in the first to first embodiments shown in FIGS. FIG. 6 shows an example of the configuration of a microorganism separation apparatus provided with a magnetic substance labeling reaction section and magnetic application means, and FIGS. 7A and 7B are conceptual diagrams of microorganism capture holes.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 26 is installed at the front stage of the microchip 20, and a circulation line 23 a having a sample water circulation valve 23 is connected to the rear stage of the microchip 20. The circulation line 23 a is connected to the sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 26.

  6 and 7, the sample water is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 26 through the sample water supply line 16 and the sample water supply valve 17. When a predetermined amount of sample water is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 26, the sample water supply valve 17 is closed. On the other hand, an antibody labeled with a magnetic substance that specifically reacts with an antigen of the target microorganism is labeled with a magnetic substance from the magnetic substance-labeled antibody storage container 27 via a magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply line 28 and a magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply valve 29. A certain amount is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 26 by the antibody supply pump 30.

  In the sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 26, the magnetic substance labeled antibody is incubated for a predetermined time under a predetermined condition, and the target microorganism reacts with the magnetic substance labeled antibody.

Thereafter, sample water containing the target microorganism reacted with the magnetic substance labeled antibody is supplied to the microchip 20 side by the sample water supply pump 19. The sample water introduced into the microorganism capturing part 12 of the microchip 20 is sucked by the fluid suction device 21 through the microorganism capturing hole 12a.

  When aspirating the sample water, the magnetism applying device 31 applies a magnetism to the magnetic material 33 provided on the inner surface of the microorganism capturing hole 12a, whereby the magnetic substance-labeled antibody 32 contained in the sample water and The reacted target microorganism 25 is captured in the microorganism capturing hole 12a (FIG. 7A).

Microorganisms and substances smaller than the diameter of the minimum diameter portion of the microorganism capturing hole 12a pass through the microorganism capturing hole 12a and are sucked and discharged.

  Further, instead of applying magnetism to the magnetic material 33 on the inner surface of the microorganism capturing hole 12a by the magnetic application device 31, a magnetic material 34 having an attractive relationship with the magnetic substance for labeling is previously applied to the inner surface of the microorganism capturing hole 12a. It may be provided (FIG. 7B). As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, when the sample water is sucked, the target microorganisms that are specifically magnetically labeled are adsorbed by the magnetic material 33 or the magnetic material 34 installed on the inner surface of the microorganism capturing hole 12a. The target microorganism is captured and collected at the inlet opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a.

First to Fifth Embodiments Next, a first to fifth embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the first to fifth embodiments shown in FIG. 8, the same parts as those in the first to first embodiments shown in FIGS. Here, FIG. 8 shows an example of the configuration of a microorganism separation apparatus provided with a cleaning mechanism.

  In FIG. 8, a circulation line 23 a having a sample water circulation valve 23 is connected to the subsequent stage of the microchip 20, and this circulation line 23 a is connected to the sample water reservoir tank 18. A cleaning liquid storage container 35 is connected to the front stage of the sample water supply pump 19 via a cleaning liquid supply line valve 36. In FIG. 8, after the target microorganism is separated by the microchip 20, the cleaning liquid is supplied from the cleaning liquid storage container 35 to the microchip 20 side by the sample water supply pump 19. Next, the cleaning liquid is introduced into the microorganism trapping part 12, and the microorganism trapping hole 12a is cleaned and discharged.

  As the cleaning liquid, a surfactant, alcohol, organic solvent, acid, alkali or the like is used. However, it is necessary to select a microchip 20 and a target microorganism that are not damaged by the cleaning liquid. For example, when a surfactant is applied as a cleaning liquid, the effect of the surfactant is that the cleaning liquid penetrates the interface between the surface of the microchip 20 and the particles, and the distance between the surface of the microchip 20 and the particles is increased. This reduces the potential energy required to pull the particles away from the surface. As a result, the target microorganism has a large interaction with the inner surface of the microorganism capturing hole 12a, whereas the other particles have a small interaction, so that the target microorganism is easily detached, and only the target microorganism is captured in the microorganism capturing hole 12a. As a result, the efficiency of capturing and collecting microorganisms is improved.

  At this time, physical application means 37 is provided on the microchip 20 in order to promote the desorption from the microchip 20 of particulate matter other than the target microorganism from the microorganism capturing hole 12a. For example, the physical application unit 37 applies energy such as ultrasonic waves, mechanical vibrations, electrical vibrations, and heat supply to the microchip 20.

  By installing the physical applying means 37 on the microchip 20 and applying mechanical energy by vibration to the particulate matter, energy necessary for desorption can be supplied from the microchip 20. Similarly, desorption can be promoted by supplying heating energy from the physical application means 37 to the microchip 20.

  However, the target microorganism may be detached due to excessive vibration and overheating. In order to prevent this and effectively remove other particulate matter, it is necessary to set optimum cleaning conditions. Note that the cleaning action by the cleaning liquid and the energy application action by the physical application means 37 may be used alone or in combination.

First to Sixth Embodiments Next, a first to sixth embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the first to sixth embodiments shown in FIG. 9, the same parts as those in the first to first embodiments shown in FIGS. Here, FIG. 9 shows an example of the configuration of a microorganism separation apparatus provided with a fractionation processing mechanism.

  In FIG. 9, a circulation line 23 a having a sample water circulation pump 23 is connected to the subsequent stage of the microchip 20, and this circulation line 23 a is connected to the sample water reservoir tank 18. In addition, a fractionation processing unit 38 is installed in the front stage of the sample water reservoir tank 18. For the sample water to be introduced into the microchip 20, a fractionation process using the size of the substance is performed by the fractionation processing means 38 as a stage before being introduced into the microchip 20. For example, when Cryptosporidium is the target microorganism, since Cryptosporidium has a diameter of about 5 μm, for example, a fractionation processing means 38 for removing those having a pore diameter of 10 μm or more is installed in the front stage of the sample water reservoir tank 18. ing.

  Thereby, impurities having a diameter of 10 μm or larger larger than the target microorganism can be removed, and the ratio of impurities can be reduced. In this case, examples of the type of the fractionation processing means 38 include a hollow fiber membrane filter, a membrane filter, a ceramic filter, and a plankton net, but the type is not particularly limited.

  Further, for example, contrary to the above, the fractionation processing means 38 for removing those having a diameter of 1 μm or less may be installed in the front stage of the sample water reservoir tank 18. When the minimum diameter of the microorganism capturing hole 12a is 1 μm, particles of 1 μm or less in the sample water are removed in advance, so that problems such as blocking of the microorganism capturing hole 12a are reduced. In this case, the type of the fraction processing means 38 is not particularly limited.

First to Seventh Embodiments Next, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a first to seventh embodiments of the present invention will be described. The first to seventh embodiments shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 differ only in that a membrane filter 39 is provided on the lower surface of the microchip 20 (the surface on the fluid suction port side). This is substantially the same as the 1-1 embodiment shown in FIG. 10 and 11, the same parts as those in the 1-1 embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram of a structure combining a microchip and a membrane filter, and FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram of the structure of the microchip. A membrane filter 39 is installed on the lower surface of the microchip 20 having the microorganism capturing part 12 and the flat substrate 10. The sample water introduced into the microorganism capturing part 12 of the microchip 20 enters the inside of the microorganism capturing hole 12a, and is a fluid suction device provided on the surface of the membrane filter 39 opposite to the microchip 20 via the membrane filter 39. 21 (see FIG. 3). At this time, the target microorganism is captured and fixed on the membrane filter 39.

  The pore diameter of the membrane filter 39 depends on the target microorganism, but is preferably about 1 μm when Cryptosporidium is the target microorganism. The material of the membrane filter 39 is not particularly limited, but it needs to have good adhesion with the microchip 20. The microchip 20 is not particularly limited in the shape of the opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a, and may be circular or polygonal. The shape of the microorganism capturing hole 12a in the depth direction is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a cylindrical shape. As for the size of the opening of the microorganism capturing hole 12a, it is essential that the size is at least larger than the size of the target microorganism, but an appropriate size is set for the maximum value.

  The depth dimension of the microorganism capturing hole 12a is not particularly limited.

  10 and 11, the membrane filter 39 functions as a fixed plate medium, and the microchip 20 has a fractionation function and a function of capturing and fixing microorganisms at a fixed position on the surface of the membrane filter 39. Therefore, the microchip 20 can be used repeatedly. Further, for example, if an antibody that specifically reacts with the antigen of the target microorganism is immobilized on the membrane filter 39, the target microorganism can be efficiently captured.

2-1 Embodiment Hereinafter, a 2-1 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  12 to 14 are views showing a 2-1 embodiment of the microorganism separation device according to the present invention. 12A is a plan view of the microorganism separation device, FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XX ′ of FIG. 12A, FIG. 13A is a perspective view of the microchip, and FIG. b) is an enlarged view thereof.

  As shown in FIGS. 12 (a), 12 (b), 13 (a), 13 (b) and FIG. 14, the microorganism separation device 110 separates and collects a specific target microorganism, and has a pore size smaller than that of the target microorganism. A plate-like microchip (also referred to as a metal plate) 101 in which a through-hole 111 is formed, first supports 102 a and 102 b disposed on the upper surface of the microchip 101, and a lower surface of the microchip 101. And a second support 102c.

  Of these, the first supports 102a and 102b are composed of an upper support 102a and an intermediate support 102b, and the second support 102c is composed of a lower support 102c, and the first supports 102a and 102b. The support body 102 is configured by the second support body 102c.

  As described above, the first supports 102a and 102b have a two-layer structure including the upper support 102a and the intermediate support 102b. However, the upper support 102a and the intermediate support 102b are integrally formed. Also good.

  Note that the microchip 101 is disposed between the first support body 102b (102a) and the second support body 102c, but the first support body 102a (102b) and the second support body 102c can be simply stacked. Various means such as pressure bonding of the microchip 101 with the support 102c can be employed.

  The upper support 102a has a flow channel 104a extending horizontally along the surface thereof and penetrating the upper support 102a, and a supply port 103 communicating with the flow channel 104a and opening outward. Is formed. Further, a flow channel 104b penetrating the intermediate support 102b is formed in the intermediate support 102b. Of these, the flow channel 104a of the upper support 102a and the flow channel 104b of the intermediate support 102b constitute a first flow channel.

  The lower support 102c is formed with a flow channel 104c that extends horizontally along the surface of the lower support 102c and penetrates the lower support 102c. The flow channel 104c has a discharge port 105 that opens outward. Communicate. This flow channel 104c is a second flow channel.

  The flow channel 104b of the intermediate support 102b and the flow channel 104c of the lower support 102c communicate with each other via a through-hole (also referred to as a microorganism capturing hole) 111 of the microchip 101. Although not shown in the drawing, the second support (lower support) 102c has two layers as in the case where the first support is formed in a two-layer structure including the upper support 102a and the intermediate support 102b. You may make it form with a layer structure. When the second support is formed with a two-layer structure, the discharge port 105 may be provided in the upper layer.

  In the present embodiment configured as described above, the sample water introduced into the microorganism separation device 110 is introduced from the supply port 103, passes through the flow channels 104 a and 104 b, and reaches the metal plate 101. At this time, the substance smaller than the hole diameter of the through hole 111 of the metal plate 101 and the dissolved component pass through the flow channel 104 c and are discharged from the drain port 105, and the substance larger than the hole diameter is captured by the metal plate 101.

  Here, the metal plate 101 has a through hole 111 smaller than the size of the microorganism. Generally, the size of bacteria and protozoa is 1 to several μm, and the through hole 111 having a size smaller than that is formed. However, when processing such a microhole, whether the laser processing or the chemical / physical etching processing is used, if the thickness is larger than the processing size of the through-hole 111, the hole diameter increases. It was impossible to process. If the thickness is reduced, processing is possible, but plastic or the like is weak in strength, and may not be able to withstand suction filtration of sample water and pressurized liquid feeding. Therefore, by using a metal that can maintain strength even if it is relatively thin, it is possible to achieve both the realization of the minute through-hole 111 and the practical processing speed by suction and pressurization.

  The first and second supports 102a, 102b, and 102c support the thin metal plate 101 from above and below so that liquid feeding by suction and pressurization is possible. At the same time, by providing the supply hole 103, the flow channels 104a, 104b, 104c, and the drain port 105 for feeding the sample water, a minute channel can be formed on the metal plate 101. With such a configuration, some piping can be omitted, leading to a reduction in the number of parts. In addition, by miniaturizing the flow path, an effect of preventing accumulation of target microorganisms in the flow path can be expected.

  As a processing method of the through hole 111, it is effective to apply laser processing. In machining and physical / chemical etching methods, when the through-hole 111 is formed, the order of a hole diameter of several tens of μm is the limit of processing accuracy. As described above, the size of microorganisms to be inspected, such as bacteria and protozoa, is on the order of μm, and is transmitted through the through hole 111 of several tens of μm and cannot be captured.

  In laser processing, the same is true in that the hole diameter increases as the processing thickness increases. However, by reducing the processing thickness, it is possible to produce the microbe-capturing through-hole 111 having a considerably small diameter. Therefore, by performing laser processing on the thin metal plate 101, it is possible to form a through hole 111 in the order of μm, and microorganisms such as bacteria and protozoa can be reliably captured by the through hole 111.

  As the material of the metal plate 101, various metals can be used, but water containing various ion components such as river water flows, and corrosive liquids such as acids, alkalis and organic solvents are used as reaction liquids and cleaning liquids. In consideration of flow and the like, it is desirable to use stainless steel.

  As materials for the first and second supports 102a, 102b, and 102c, plastic, glass, silicon, metal, ceramic, and the like can be used. At this time, in order to detect the target microorganism captured in the through hole 111 of the metal plate 101, an optical method such as observation of fluorescence emission is used. In this case, the first and second supports 102a, 102b, and 102c need to be made of a material that transmits light. In particular, by making the upper support 102a transparent, it is possible to detect the fluorescence from the target microorganism captured in the through-hole 111 by irradiating excitation light from above. Preferably, the first and second supports 102a, 102b, and 102c are made of an acrylic resin that is inexpensive, highly transparent, and easy to bond.

  Next, the shape of the through hole 111 for capturing microorganisms in the metal plate 101 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of the shape of the through-hole 111 of the metal plate 101 designed for selectively capturing the chlorine-resistant microorganism Cryptosporidium.

  The through hole 111 is processed at a patterned position on the metal plate 101. When the through hole 111 is formed, laser processing is used. In this case, since processing is performed with the laser focused on the tip of the processing region, the shape of the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 is tapered, and the diameter of the upper opening 111a on the laser irradiation surface side is increased. Therefore, microorganisms can be captured by making the size of the lower opening 111b opposite to the irradiation surface smaller than the size of the target microorganism.

  Cryptosporidium is a spherical microorganism having a diameter of about 5 μm, and in order to capture this, the diameter of the upper opening 111a of the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 on the sample water introduction side is 3 to 5 μm in diameter. When laser processing is performed, the hole diameter of the through hole 111 decreases from the upper opening 111a at the portion in contact with the sample water in the depth direction. When the thickness of the metal plate 101 is 5 μm, the hole diameter of the lower opening 111b on the opposite side of the laser irradiation surface is about 2 to 3 μm, which is smaller than the diameter of Cryptosporidium and can be captured.

  FIGS. 14A and 14B show a state of capturing microorganisms when a thin plate of SUS304 having a thickness of 5 μm is actually used as the metal plate 101 and this metal plate 101 is subjected to laser processing.

  Here, FIG. 14A shows an arrangement position of the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 provided on the metal plate 101, and FIG. 14B shows a capturing situation of the cryptosporidium simulated particles captured in the through-hole 111. FIG. FIG.

  As a result of actually measuring the hole diameter of the through hole 111, the upper opening 111a was 3.1 ± 0.6 μm, and the lower opening 111b was 2.5 ± 0.6 μm.

  When a capture experiment was actually performed using Cryptosporidium simulated particles (Cryptotracer No. 1: Water Optimal Technology Research Center), it was confirmed that the crypt was captured at the site of the microorganism capture through-hole 111. did it. Further, by reducing the pressure on the lower opening 111b side, it was possible to improve the flow velocity, and practical filtration performance of about 100 μL / min at a pressure difference of 40 kPa and 350 μL / min at 88 kPa was obtained.

  In this case, due to laser processing limitations, the microbe-capturing through-hole 111 has a certain taper angle. Therefore, when the metal plate 101 is thickened, the hole diameter of the upper opening 111a increases and the distance between adjacent through-holes 111 is wide. Become. For this reason, there exists a problem that it becomes difficult to arrange many through-holes 111 within a fixed area. Therefore, it is desirable that the thickness of the metal plate 101 be as thin as possible. However, the strength is insufficient without a certain thickness.

  When calculated from the processing results this time, if the upper limit of the interval between the adjacent microorganism capturing through-holes 111 is set to 30 μm, the thickness of the metal plate 101 needs to be 50 μm or less. From the above, the thickness of the metal plate 101 is desirably 5 to 50 μm or less.

  Moreover, although the circular shape was set in FIG. 13 about the shape of the opening part of the through-hole 111 for microorganisms capture, a shape is not ask | required in particular and it is good also as a polygon. The shape of the smallest diameter portion is not particularly specified, and it is important that the shape is smaller than the size of the microorganism.

2-2 Embodiment Next, a 2-2 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 15 shows a microorganism separation system incorporating the microorganism separation apparatus according to the 2-2 embodiment shown in FIGS.

  In FIG. 15, the sample water flows to the sample water supply line 121 via the sample water supply valve 122 and is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank 123. After introducing a predetermined amount of sample water, the sample water supply valve 122 is closed, the sample water is supplied from the supply port 103 to the microorganism separation device 110 by the sample water supply pump 124, and the sample plate contains the sample water in the metal plate 1101 of the microorganism separation device 110. Specific target microorganisms are captured. Thereafter, the sample water is discharged from the discharge port 105 of the microorganism separation device 110 and sucked by the fluid suction device 126.

  During this time, the target microorganism contained in the sample is captured in the microorganism capturing through-hole 111. Microorganisms and substances smaller than the diameter of the smallest diameter portion of the microorganism capturing through hole 111 are sucked through the microorganism capturing through hole 111 and discharged to the fluid suction device 126 side.

  In this process, the particulate matter containing the target microorganism is captured in the through hole for capturing microorganisms.

  Sample water is introduced into the microorganism separation device 110 by both the sample water supply pump 124 and the fluid suction device 126, but only one of the supply pump 124 and the liquid suction device 126 may be provided.

  It is also possible to confirm on the metal plate 101 whether or not the target microorganism is actually captured. When the target microorganism is detected or the type of organism is specified, a detection method based on biological information using an antigen / antibody binding reaction or a DNA hybridization reaction can be performed on the metal plate 101. . Supply a labeled antibody labeled with a fluorescent or luminescent dye to an antibody that recognizes the target microorganism as an antigen, or a labeled DNA probe labeled with a fluorescent or luminescent dye to a DNA probe that specifically binds to DNA or RNA contained in the target organism Means are provided on the metal plate 101, and a labeled antibody and a labeled DNA probe are supplied to the metal plate 101 side. As a result, target microorganisms can be selectively stained, and they can be observed using a fluorescence microscope.

2-3 Embodiment Next, a 2-3 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a microorganism separation device including a cleaning mechanism.

  In FIG. 16, the same parts as those of the embodiment shown in FIG. In FIG. 16, the cleaning liquid is supplied from the cleaning liquid storage container 131 through the cleaning liquid switching valve 132 by the sample supply pump 124 to the metal plate 101 and then introduced into the through hole 111 of the metal plate 101. The cleaning water cleans the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 and is discharged through the cleaning liquid discharge valve 133.

  As the cleaning liquid, a surfactant, alcohol, organic solvent, acid, alkali or the like is used. However, it is necessary to select a metal plate 101 and a target microorganism that are not damaged by the cleaning liquid. For example, when a surfactant is applied as a cleaning liquid, the potential required for the cleaning liquid to permeate the interface between the surface of the metal plate 101 and the particles and to separate the particles from the surface by separating the distance between the surface and the particles. Reduce energy. As a result, the target microorganism has a large interaction with the inner surface of the hole, whereas the interaction of the other particles is small, so that the target microorganism is easily detached and only the target microorganism is captured in the microorganism capturing hole. For this reason, the capture and recovery efficiency of microorganisms is improved.

  Further, a physical cleaning means 134 may be provided in order to promote the detachment of particulate matter other than the target microorganism from the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 (FIG. 16). For example, as the physical cleaning means 134, ultrasonic waves, mechanical vibration, electrical vibration, heat supply, or the like is used. The physical cleaning means 134 is installed on the metal plate 101, and mechanical energy by vibration is applied to the particulate matter, thereby supplying energy necessary for desorption.

  Similarly, desorption can be promoted by supplying energy by heating. However, the target microorganism may be detached due to excessive vibration and overheating.

  In order to prevent this and effectively remove other particulate matter, it is necessary to set optimum cleaning conditions. Note that the cleaning with the above cleaning liquid and the physical cleaning means may be used alone or in combination.

3-1 Embodiment Hereinafter, a 3-1 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  17 to 18 are views showing a 3-1 embodiment of the microorganism separation device according to the present invention. 17A is a plan view of the microorganism separation device, FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XX ′ of FIG. 17A, FIG. 18A is a perspective view of the microchip, and FIG. b) is an enlarged view thereof.

  As shown in FIGS. 17 (a) (b) and 18 (a) (b), the microorganism separation device 110 separates and collects a specific target microorganism, and has a through-hole having a smaller pore diameter than the target microorganism. A plate-shaped microchip (also referred to as a metal plate) 101 on which 1111 is formed, a first support body 102a disposed on the upper surface of the microchip 101, and a second support disposed on the lower surface of the microchip 101 Body 102b, 102c.

  Of these, the first support 102a is composed of an upper support 102a, and the second supports 102b and 102c are composed of an intermediate support 102b and a lower support 102c. Furthermore, the support body 102 is constituted by the first support body 102a and the second support bodies 102b and 102c.

  Note that the microchip 101 is disposed between the first support body 102a and the second support body 102b. However, the microchip 101 may be simply stacked to form a microchip by the first support body 102a and the second support body 102b. Various means such as crimping the chip 1 can be employed.

  At this time, as the material of the supports 102a, 102b, and 102c, various plastic materials, metal materials, glass, and the like can be used, but it is desirable to use transparent materials such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), PMMA, and glass. In the present embodiment, the supports 102a and 102c are made of PDMS, and the support 102b is made of a slide glass.

  In addition, the upper support 102a extends in the horizontal direction along the surface thereof, and passes through the upper support 102a, the flow channel 104b connected to the trapping holes for microorganisms, and the flow channel 104a. And a supply port 103 that opens outward. Further, a cleaning drainage port 106 is formed in the upper support 102a, which functions as a discharge port for cleaning liquid and particulate matter other than the target microorganism. The flow channel 104a and the flow channel 104b of the upper support 102a constitute a first flow channel.

  A flow channel 104c penetrating the intermediate support 102b is formed in the intermediate support 102b.

  The lower support 102c is formed with a flow channel 104d that extends horizontally along the surface of the lower support 102c and penetrates the lower support 102c. The flow channel 104d has a discharge port 105 that opens outward. Communicate. A second flow channel is formed by the flow channel 104c of the intermediate support 102b and the flow channel 104c of the lower support 102c.

  The flow channel 104b of the intermediate support 102b and the flow channel 104c of the lower support 102c communicate with each other via a through-hole (also referred to as a microorganism capturing hole) 111 of the microchip 101. Here, the hydrophilicity of the flow channels 104a and 104b increases the affinity with water, so that the attached microorganisms can be easily separated with running water. As a result, the adhesion of microorganisms to the flow path is suppressed.

  In the present embodiment configured as described above, the sample water introduced into the microorganism separation device 110 is introduced from the supply port 103, passes through the flow channels 104 a and 104 b, and reaches the metal plate 101. At this time, the substance smaller than the hole diameter of the through hole 111 of the metal plate 101 and the dissolved component pass through the flow channel 104 c and are discharged from the drain port 105, and the substance larger than the hole diameter is captured by the metal plate 101. Since the flow channels 104a and 104b are hydrophilized as described above, adhesion of microorganisms is suppressed, and almost all microorganisms contained in the sample water reach the metal plate 101.

  Here, the metal plate 101 has a through hole 111 smaller than the size of the microorganism. Generally, the size of bacteria and protozoa is 1 to several μm, and the through hole 111 having a size smaller than that is formed. Microorganisms that have reached the metal plate 101 are captured in the through hole 111. According to the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent microorganisms from adhering to the flow path and improve accuracy.

  The through-hole 111 is formed by a method such as laser processing or machining, but the diameter of the through-hole differs on both sides depending on the processing method. FIG. 18 shows an example in which a metal plate 101 (manufactured by SUS304) is processed by laser processing to produce a through hole. When a hole having a hole diameter of 2 to 3 μm is formed in a metal plate 101 having a thickness of 5 μm, The opening on the opposite surface has a hole diameter of 3-5 μm. This metal plate can be applied to microorganism separation regardless of which is the top surface. FIG. 18 illustrates an example in which a surface having a small hole diameter is the flow channel 104b side (supply side). An example of capturing microorganism simulated particles using this configuration is shown in FIG. Here, Cryptosporidium simulated particles (Cryptotracer No. 1: Water Technology Research Center) were used. It can be seen that one bright spot corresponds to one particle, and one particle is trapped in almost one hole.

  Actual sample water contains many non-biological particles other than microorganisms. By using a molecular biological technique, other than the target microorganism is not stained, so there is no problem in terms of misrecognition, but there is a possibility of blocking the through hole. In order to prevent this, it is possible to supply chemicals such as acid and alkali to the microchip 101 to remove abiotic particles adhering to the flow path and the through hole.

Examples of non-biological particles include mineral components such as calcium, iron, and silica. Table 1 shows examples of the weight ratio and atomic weight ratio of mineral elements actually contained in tap water.

Usually, hydrochloric acid cleaning is effective for dissolving these mineral particles. For example, by allowing 1 mol / L HCl to act for 10 minutes, oxidation of iron oxide (Fe ₂ O ₃ ), calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ ), zinc hydroxide (Zn (OH ₂ )) is performed without dissolving Cryptosporidium. It is possible to dissolve and remove copper (CuO, Cu ₂ O). For other acids, it is possible to apply acids used for scale cleaning, such as nitric acid, sulfamic acid, and citric acid. In the case where the particles cannot be sufficiently removed only by hydrochloric acid treatment, it is considered that silica (SiO ₂ ) is contained. In this case, the solubility can be improved by adding hydrofluoric acid as an auxiliary agent.

  FIG. 20 shows changes in the contact angle when various treatments are performed on the PDMS material constituting the supports 102a and 102c. Although the contact angle is 100 ° or more before the treatment, it can be seen that the contact angle is greatly lowered in any of the plasma treatments.

  When the treatment is performed with pure water (Milli-Q water) after the plasma treatment, the contact angle greatly decreases immediately after the treatment, but tends to increase again after 5 hours. This is considered to be caused by the gradual disappearance of hydrophilic groups formed on the surface by the plasma treatment. When treated with a surfactant (1% SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate)) after plasma treatment, the increase in contact angle tends to be suppressed compared to that treated with pure water, and the effect of hydrophilization is demonstrated. Can be made.

  Further, it is considered that the surface is coated with an anionic surfactant to inhibit the adsorption of Cryptosporidium oocysts whose surface potential is negatively charged. In this test, PDMS was used as the material of the flow path, but it is considered that the adsorption of Cryptosporidium oocysts in the introduction flow path can be suppressed by devising the processing method for other materials.

  FIG. 21 is a comparison of the state of attachment of simulated microorganism particles in the microchannel. Using PDMS, a flow channel having a width of 200 μm, a depth of 200 μm, and a length of 1 cm was prepared, and a suspension of cryptosporidium simulated particles (100 particles / 10 μL) was introduced at a flow rate of 100 μL / min using a syringe pump. . Cryptosporidium simulated particles used Cryptotracer No. 1: Water Technology Research Center. This simulated particle has the same specific gravity and surface potential as that of actual cryptosporidium, and contains a fluorescent dye in advance. After introducing particles with each solvent for 5 minutes, the solution in the flow channel was pushed out with air, and then observed under a fluorescence microscope under U excitation. In the case of the untreated flow path A, it can be seen that very many particles remain in the flow path.

  On the other hand, in the case of the flow path B subjected to the plasma treatment and 1% SDS treatment as the surfactant, almost no bright spots due to fluorescence emission are observed in the flow path, and no adsorption of simulated particles is observed.

  FIG. 22 shows a comparison of the number of microorganism simulated particles adhering to the flow path when various treatments are performed. The test conditions are the same as in FIG. In the flow path subjected to the plasma treatment, the number of attached particles is reduced as compared with the non-treated flow path. In particular, the adhering particles are significantly reduced in the flow path where the plasma treatment + SDS treatment is performed.

  In this way, adsorption of Cryptosporidium can be effectively prevented by performing plasma treatment and further surface treatment with an anionic surfactant.

3-2 Embodiment Next, a 3-2 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 23 shows a microorganism separation system incorporating the microorganism separation apparatus according to the 3-1 embodiment shown in FIGS.

  In FIG. 23, the sample water flows to the sample water supply line 121 via the sample water supply valve 122 and is introduced into the sample water reservoir tank 123. After introducing a predetermined amount of sample water, the sample water supply valve 122 is closed, the sample water is supplied from the supply port 103 to the microorganism separation device 110 by the sample water supply pump 124, and the sample plate contains the sample water in the metal plate 101 of the microorganism separation device 110. Specific target microorganisms are captured. Thereafter, the sample water is discharged from the discharge port 105 of the microorganism separation device 110 and sucked by the fluid suction device 126.

  During this time, the target microorganism contained in the sample water passes through the first flow paths 104a and 104b of the first support 102a and is captured in the microorganism capturing through-hole 11. Here, if the number of microorganisms adsorbed in the first flow paths 104a and 104b is large, the proportion of microorganisms that reach the metal plate 101 decreases, leading to a decrease in detection rate. However, the microorganisms reach the metal plate 101 with higher probability by making the inner surfaces of the first flow paths 104a and 104b hydrophilic as shown in the 3-1 embodiment. Microorganisms and substances that have passed through the first flow paths 104a and 104b and are smaller than the diameter of the smallest diameter portion of the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 are sucked through the microorganism capturing through-hole 111, and the fluid suction device 126 side. Is discharged.

  In this process, the particulate matter containing the target microorganism is captured by the microorganism capturing through-hole 111.

  Sample water is introduced into the microorganism separation device 110 by both the sample water supply pump 124 and the fluid suction device 126, but only one of the supply pump 124 and the liquid suction device 126 may be provided.

  It is also possible to confirm on the metal plate 101 whether or not the target microorganism is actually captured. When the target microorganism is detected or the type of organism is specified, a detection method based on biological information using an antigen / antibody binding reaction or a DNA hybridization reaction can be performed on the metal plate 101. . Supply a labeled antibody labeled with a fluorescent or luminescent dye to an antibody that recognizes the target microorganism as an antigen, or a labeled DNA probe labeled with a fluorescent or luminescent dye to a DNA probe that specifically binds to DNA or RNA contained in the target organism Means are provided on the metal plate 101, and a labeled antibody and a labeled DNA probe are supplied to the metal plate 101 side. As a result, target microorganisms can be selectively stained, and they can be observed using a fluorescence microscope.

3-3 Embodiment Next, a 3-3 embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  Here, the effect on the removal of algae that interferes with the detection of microorganisms by a fluorescence microscope image will be described. When algae are contained in the sample, the algae contain fluorescent substances such as chlorophyll and phycocyanin in the cells and have the property of self-fluorescence (hereinafter referred to as autofluorescence). For this reason, when a detection method using fluorescent staining is employed, it may cause misrecognition, so it is desirable to remove it. In particular, when detecting Cryptosporidium, a chlorine-resistant pathogenic microorganism, since Cryptosporidium has a diameter of about 5 μm, it is the same size as algae, and is a fraction of the through-hole 111 for capturing microorganisms. It is difficult to sufficiently separate only with accuracy.

  FIG. 24 shows a microorganism separation system further equipped with an algae removing function. In FIG. 24, the same parts as those of the 3-2 embodiment shown in FIG.

  First, as shown in the above-described third to second embodiments, the sample water reaches the metal plate 101, and microorganisms in the sample water are captured by the microorganism capturing through holes 11 of the metal plate 101.

  Next, in FIG. 24, the solution is supplied from the algae-dissolving enzyme solution storage container 131 through the solution switching valve 132 to the metal plate 101 by the sample supply pump 124 and then introduced into the through hole 111 of the metal plate 101. The dissolved water is washed through the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 and discharged through the discharge valve 133.

  Next, the fluorescent staining liquid is supplied from the fluorescent staining liquid storage container 134 to the metal plate 101 by the sample supply pump 124 through the fluorescent staining liquid switching valve 135. This fluorescent staining solution comprises fluorescently labeled antibodies and DNA probes that specifically recognize and bind to the target microorganism. Of the particles captured in the microorganism capturing through-hole 111 of the metal plate 101, the target microorganism is recognized and selectively bound by the antibody and the DNA probe, whereby only the target microorganism is stained. With this configuration, it is possible to stain the target microorganism after removing the algae.

In the present invention, algae are removed using an algal lytic enzyme. FIG. 25 shows algae autofluorescence intensity characteristics for various cell lysis treatment methods. As a cell lysis treatment method, enzyme treatment using lysozyme, proteinase K which is one of proteases, etc. was verified. Here, as the test sample algae, Synechococcus sp. Cultured in a BG-11 medium with shaking and suspended in 80 μL of Tris-HCl buffer (pH 8.5). NKBG 042902 (6 × 10 ⁷ cells / ml) was used. In this algal suspension, 20 mg of 50 mg / mL-lysozyme was added and incubated at room temperature for 20 minutes. Furthermore, 10 μL of 1 mg / mL-proteinase K was added and incubated under each condition. After centrifugation collection and washing, the fluorescence intensity was measured under G excitation to measure the fluorescence intensity.

  As a result, regardless of which enzyme is used, a decrease in autofluorescence due to algae is observed, and an algae removal effect is obtained. In particular, lysis by continuous treatment of lysozyme + proteinase K is effective, and a large decrease in the autofluorescence intensity of algae is observed.

  FIG. 26 shows the result of the same treatment performed on Cryptosporidium oocysts. Regarding Cryptosporidium, compared to Tris-HCl buffer, there is no decrease in fluorescence intensity even when enzyme treatment is performed, and Cryptosporidium can be immunostained without being dissolved even after algae dissolution treatment. It turns out that it is. From this result, it can be said that only the algae can be selectively removed after the mixture of algae and Cryptosporidium is captured on the microchip.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The structure conceptual diagram of the microchip which shows 1-1st embodiment of the microorganisms separator by this invention. The structure conceptual diagram which shows the microbe capture part and microbe capture hole of the microchip of a microbe separation apparatus. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The whole schematic diagram which shows 1-1st embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The whole schematic diagram which shows 1-2nd embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. The conceptual diagram of the microorganisms capture hole which shows 1-3rd embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The whole schematic diagram which shows 1-4th Embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. The conceptual diagram which shows the microorganisms capture hole of 1-4th embodiment of the microorganisms separator by this invention. The whole schematic diagram showing the 1-5th embodiment of the microorganisms separation device by the present invention. The whole schematic diagram which shows 1-6th embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. The structure conceptual diagram of the microchip and membrane filter which show 1-7th embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. The structure conceptual diagram of the microorganisms capture part of the microchip which shows 1-7th Embodiment of the microorganisms separator by this invention, a microorganisms capture hole, and a membrane filter. The block diagram which shows 2nd-1 embodiment of the microorganisms separator by this invention. The figure which shows the through-hole for microorganisms capture | acquisition of a metal plate. The figure which shows the position of the through-hole for microorganisms capture | acquisition, and the capture condition of cryptosporidium simulated particle | grains. The block diagram which shows 2nd-2 embodiment of the microorganisms separator by this invention. The block diagram which shows 2-3rd embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. The structure conceptual diagram of the microchip which shows 3rd-1 embodiment of the microorganisms separator by this invention. The structure conceptual diagram which shows the microbe capture part and microbe capture hole of the microchip of a microbe separation apparatus. The figure which shows the example of particle | grain capture | acquisition to a microchip. The figure which shows the contact angle at the time of giving plasma + various surfactant process to PDMS. The figure which shows the adhesion state of the microorganisms simulated particle | grains in a microchannel. The figure which shows the number of residual particles at the time of giving plasma + various surfactant process to PDMS. The whole schematic diagram which shows 3rd-2 embodiment of the microorganisms separation apparatus by this invention. The whole schematic diagram showing the 3rd-3rd embodiment of the microorganisms separation device by the present invention. The figure which shows the reduction | decrease characteristic of the autofluorescence intensity of algae with respect to various cell lysis processing methods. C. for various cell lysis treatment methods. The figure which shows a parvum oocyst fluorescence dyeing intensity | strength measurement result.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Flat substrate 11 Flow channel 12 Microorganism capture part 12a Microorganism capture hole 13 Fluid supply port 14 Fluid discharge port 15 Fluid suction port 16 Sample water supply line 17 Sample water supply valve 18 Sample water reservoir tank 19 Sample water supply pump 20 Microchip 21 Fluid suction device 22 Sample water discharge valve 23 Sample water circulation valve 24 Microorganism capture antibody 25 Target microorganism 26 Sample water reservoir tank / magnetic substance labeling reaction tank 27 Magnetic substance label antibody storage container 28 Magnetic substance label antibody supply line 29 Magnetic substance label Antibody supply valve 30 Magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply pump 31 Magnetic application device 32 Magnetic material substance-labeled antibody 33 Magnetic material 34 Magnetic material 35 Cleaning liquid storage container 36 Cleaning liquid supply line valve 37 Physical application means 38 Fraction processing means 39 Membrane filter 101 Metal Upper part of plate 102a Holding body 102b Intermediate support body 102c Lower support body 103 Supply port 104a Flow channel 104b Flow channel 104c Flow channel 105 Drain port 111 Microbe-capturing through-hole 121 Sample water supply line 122 Sample water supply valve 123 Sample water reservoir tank 124 Sample water supply pump 126 Fluid suction device 131 Cleaning liquid storage container 132 Cleaning liquid switching valve 133 Cleaning liquid discharge valve 134 Physical cleaning means

Claims (28)

In a microorganism separation apparatus for separating and recovering target microorganisms contained in sample water,
A flat substrate in which a flow channel including a fluid supply port and a fluid suction port is formed; and a capturing unit that is provided in the fluid suction port of the flat substrate and includes a plurality of through holes having a diameter smaller than the minimum diameter of the target microorganism. A microchip having
A sample water suction means connected to the microchip capture section for sucking the sample water;
Sample water supply means connected to the fluid supply port of the flat substrate of the microchip to supply sample water;
A microorganism separation apparatus comprising:   2. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an antibody that specifically recognizes an antigen of a target microorganism is provided in the through hole of the flat substrate. A magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means for specifically recognizing an antigen of a target microorganism and supplying an antibody labeled with a magnetic substance to sample water;
A reaction unit for reacting the magnetic substance-labeled antibody supplied from the magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means with a microorganism antigen;
2. The microorganism separating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a material that attracts a magnetic substance is provided in the through hole of the flat substrate. A magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means for specifically recognizing an antigen of a target microorganism and supplying an antibody labeled with a magnetic substance to sample water;
A reaction unit for reacting the magnetic substance-labeled antibody supplied from the magnetic substance-labeled antibody supply means with a microorganism antigen;
2. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a magnetic application means for generating magnetism for attracting the magnetic substance is provided in the through hole of the flat substrate. In a microorganism separation apparatus for separating and recovering target microorganisms contained in sample water,
A microchip having a flat substrate in which a flow channel including a fluid supply port and a fluid suction port is formed; and a capture portion including a plurality of through holes provided in the fluid suction port of the flat substrate; A membrane filter provided on the surface of the fluid suction port;
A sample water suction means for sucking the sample water provided on the surface of the membrane filter opposite to the microchip;
Sample water supply means for supplying sample water connected to the fluid supply port of the flat substrate;
A microorganism separation apparatus comprising:   The flow channel of the flat substrate of the microchip has a fluid discharge port, and a circulation unit that collects sample water that has passed through the flow channel and returns it to the sample water supply unit is connected to the fluid discharge port. The microorganism separation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   The microorganism separation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising physical application means for applying energy to the microchip.   The microorganism separation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising cleaning liquid supply means for flowing the cleaning liquid into the flow channel of the microchip.   9. The fractionation processing means for fractionating the target microorganisms and other particles contained in the sample water supplied to the microchip by size in a stage preceding the sample water supply means. Or a microorganism separation apparatus. In a microorganism separation device that separates and collects specific target microorganisms in sample water,
A plate-like microchip in which a through hole having a smaller pore size than the target microorganism is formed;
A first support having a first flow channel disposed on an upper surface of the microchip, and a second support having a second flow channel disposed on a lower surface of the microchip, The microorganism separation apparatus, wherein the first flow channel of the support and the second flow channel of the second support are communicated with each other through a through hole of the microchip.   The first flow channel of the first support has a supply port that opens outward, and the second flow channel of the second support has a discharge port that opens outward. The microorganism separation device according to claim 10.   The microbe separation apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the through hole of the microchip is formed by laser processing.   The microorganism separation apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the first and second supports are made of a transparent body.   The microorganism separation apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the target microorganism is Cryptosporidium.   The microbe separation apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the narrowest portion of the through hole has a diameter of 2 to 3 µm.   The microbe separation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the microchip has a thickness of 5 to 50 μm.   The microbe separation apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the microchip is provided with a physical cleaning means for cleaning the microchip.   The microbe separation apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein a cleaning liquid supply means for flowing a cleaning liquid to the microchip is connected to the microchip.   The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the inner surface of the first flow channel is hydrophilized.   20. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the hydrophilization treatment for the inner surface of the first flow channel of the first support includes plasma treatment.   21. The hydrophilization treatment for the inner surface of the first flow channel of the first support includes a plasma treatment and a coating treatment with an anionic surfactant after the plasma treatment. The microorganism separation apparatus as described.   The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the first support and the second support are made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).   The microorganism separating apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising means for removing algae.   24. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the means for removing algae comprises a dissolution treatment means using an enzyme.   25. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the means for removing algae uses lysozyme as an enzyme.   25. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the means for removing algae uses a protease as an enzyme.   25. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the lysis treatment with an enzyme of the means for removing algae comprises a treatment with a mixed solution of lysozyme and protease.   25. The microorganism separation apparatus according to claim 24, wherein an enzyme solution supply means for supplying the enzyme solution to the microchip is connected.