Cell analysis in multi-through-hole testing plate

Abstract

A spatially fixed library of mutated cells and a method for creating such a library. The library is created by creating a set of cells having a genetic diversity, causing the cells to multiply and express phenotypes, preparing a solution containing the cells diluted in a medium, populating a plurality of through-holes of a testing plate with the solution such that surface tension holds the solution in respective through-holes, and analyzing the phenotypes of the cells in the solution on a hole-by-hole basis. Cells expressing specified phenotypes may then be retrieved.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a divisional application of copending Ser. No. 10 / 223,893, filed Aug. 20, 2002, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 970,578 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,436,632), which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 528,085 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,306,578), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 471,852 (abandoned), which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 272,122 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,027,873). Each of the patent applications described in this paragraph is hereby incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention is related generally to a testing apparatus and, more particulary, to a multi-through hole testing plate for high throughout screening. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Prior testing apparatuses have consisted of a testing plate with a pair of opposing surfaces and plurality of wells. The wells extend in from one of the opposing surfaces, but do not extend t...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for holding samples of a solution for analysis. The testing plate has a pair of opposing surfaces with a plurality of holes that hold cells or solutions. The holes are arranged in groups of at least two rows and two columns, which makes it easier for an operator to identify a particular hole. The method involves immersing the testing plate in the solution and analyzing the solution in the holes. The apparatus is simple to use and does not require special construction techniques. The technical effects of the invention include simplifying testing procedures, reducing the need for separate delivery systems, and improving the identification of particular holes.

Problems solved by technology

Although these testing apparatuses work there are some problems.

For example, the wells in these testing apparatuses are difficult to fill.

These special delivery systems are often expensive and difficult to operate.

As a result, the overall cost of the testing procedure is increased.

Another problem with these prior testing apparatuses is with their construction.

However, the rest of the testing plate needs to be constructed of a non-transparent material.

The construction of a testing apparatus with these characteristics is difficult and expensive.

Yet another problem with these prior testing apparatuses is with the operator locating a particular well in the testing apparatus.

As a result, locating a particular well within the large number of wells is difficult.

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