Basic High Throughput Screening Equipment, Part Two

In this article we'll continue our examination of basic highthroughput screening equipment. We'll begin by completing our look at various microplate reading equipment, and continue on to handling equipment.

MICROPLATE READERS, CON'T

Both monochromators and filters offer separate and distinct advantages. Filters are comparatively less expensive (allowing several to be maintained at  the same time)and are capable of efficient division of wavelengths and excitations. However, repeated equipment updates and the inability to perform spectral scans are notable flaws.

It's also important to consider any incubation and long-term temperature control needs that you might have. Modern microplate readers offer equipment designed to address these needs, as well as further tools to handle reagent injection, gas purging, and customizable top/bottom reader layouts. There are also several specialized high throughput, high content scanners worth considering because their specific applications. High content imagers utilize automated equipment and processing software to collect high volumes of data under customizable parameters. Laser scanning cytometers are notable for their use of lasers to excite microplates, an effective method for detecting cells, model organisms and colonies. Finally, label free detection is an exciting new development in the world of high throughput screening, but we'll reserve the details for another article.

MICROPLATE HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Most laboratories prefer to use automated microplate handling equipment. However, there are still partially automated options available for the budget-conscious. In order to decide which setup will work best for you it's a good idea to consider the average number of plates you expect to process each day, the volume you expect to handle, as well as the speed and accuracy expected in returning results, the amount of space that's available in the lab, software needs and any anticipated future upgrades.

ADDITIONAL

Once you've determined which microplates and microplate readers will best suit your needs be sure to consult with an expert regarding microplate sealing systems and materials, as well as monochromators and filters. Reliable sealing equipment will help maintain well conditions over the course of multiple assays, allowing for the quantification and recording of conditions, exposure length and contamination risks. Automated sealing systems are currently available as well. Monochromators and filters are used in wavelength selection. Optical filters are incorporated and used in emission filtering and excitation. Generally the microplate reader you select will have an approved option that's been recommended by the vendor. Many of the most popular readers are modular, making them highly versatile and customizable depending on a given laboratory's needs.