Sampling devices and methods of use
Sample-collecting devices, articles and methods of use are disclosed. Premoistened sample-collecting devices comprise 1,2-propanediol as a humectant, which promotes the retention of a liquid solution on the sample-collecting device during storage. 1,2-propanediol as humectant can be compatible with proteins and other reagents used to detect an analyte.
1. A method of detecting an analyte in a sample, the method comprising:
providing a sample-collecting device comprising a shaft and a porous medium coupled to the shaft, the porous medium comprising an aqueous solution including 1,2-propanediol as a humectant and a cell lysis reagent;
wherein the porous medium is adapted to collect a sample from a surface;
wherein the concentration of 1,2-propanediol in the aqueous solution is about 2 weight percent to 8 weight percent;
contacting the sample-collecting device with a surface to obtain a sample from the surface; and
detecting the analyte;
wherein the analyte is a Gram positive bacteria or a Gram negative bacteria.
2. A method according to claim 1 , comprising detecting the analyte by a culture method, a genetic assay, a cell detection assay, or an immunoassay.
3. A method according to claim 1 , wherein detecting the analyte comprises detecting cells, proteins, or enzyme activity of the Gram positive bacteria or Gram negative bacteria.
4. A method according to claim 3 , wherein said enzyme activity comprises at least one of luciferase enzyme activity, phosphatase enzyme activity, and adenylate kinase enzyme activity.
5. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the cell lysis reagent comprises a detergent.
6. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the cell lysis reagent comprises a chlorhexidine gluconate.
7. A method according to claim 4 , wherein said enzyme activity is detected by at least one of colorimetry, fluorimetry, and luminometry.