| abstract |
Provided is a method for separating two or more analytes in a fluid, which method comprises: (a) binding each different analyte to a different functional particle in one or more binding zones, to produce two or more bound analytes; (b) allowing the bound analytes to move through a separating conduit to two or more separate functional zones; wherein, each different functional particle has, or can be controlled to have, a different function in the fluid as compared with the other functional particles; and wherein the separating conduit separates into two or more functional conduits, such that the separating conduit serves to separate the bound analytes into the separate functional conduits by means of the different functions of the different functional particles. Also provided is an apparatus for separating two or more analytes in a fluid, which apparatus comprises: (a) a binding zone; (b) two or more functional conduits; (c) a separating conduit connecting the binding zone to the two or more functional conduits; (d) a transporter for transporting the analyte through the separating conduit from the binding zone to the two or more functional conduits; and (e) optionally one or more concentrating zones in connection with at least one of the functional conduits. |