Methods and apparatus for qualitatively or quantitatively determining one
or more analytes in matrices such as foods, biological fluids, etc. An
embodiment for determination of a single analyte comprises a sample
receiving vessel, a first membrane and a reagent-containing well. The
prepared sample passes through the first membrane whereby extraneous
matter is removed, and a filtrate enters the reagent-containing well to
provide a filtrate-reagent admixture from which the analyte may be
determined. An embodiment for determination for multiple analytes includes
one or more additional membranes in series with the first membrane, each
such additional membrane being operative to capture one or more analytes.
Each of the additional analytes may then be eluted from the membrane upon
which it has been captured, into a separate reagent-containing well to
provide eluant-reagent admixture from which each desired analyte may be
determined. Formulations for preparation additives are also included.
Additionally, there's provided an embodiment of above-described invention
for determination of an analyte which is present in a matrix at low (e.g.,
sub-detectable) levels, wherein the filter of the apparatus is utilized to
capture and concentrate the analyte, to provide a filtrate-reagent
admixture wherein the analyte is present at a detectable concentration.