Inspection of microarrays and monitoring e.g. hybridization of macromolecules on them, prepares spot patterns on surfaces to sandwich fluid containing macromolecules

摘要

The microarray is prepared with macromolecules on a solid surface (3) in a spot (5) pattern. A second pattern (7) is applied to a second surface (11). The surfaces are contacted by a fluid (13) containing macromolecules. These are able to hybridize at least with the second spot (7) macromolecules. The arrangement is such that the fluid forms a film contacted by both surfaces. A value is measured from spots of the second surface. The microarray is prepared with macromolecules on a solid surface (3) in a spot (5) pattern. A second pattern (7) is similarly applied to a second surface (11). The surfaces are contacted by a fluid (13) containing macromolecules. These are able to hybridize at least with the second spot (7) macromolecules. The arrangement is such that the fluid forms a film contacted by both surfaces. A value is measured from spots of the second surface. This is a function of the degree of hybridization in their macromolecules. Signals from spots are correlated to determine uniformity of hybridization, or establishment of equilibrium. Signals are evaluated from nominally-identical spots. Correlation determines their correspondence and hence reproducibility of the spot-manufacturing process. Measurements evaluated from spots of the second surface correspond with investigations of macromolecule hybridization in the fluid and in the spots of the first surface. Further procedures based on the foregoing principles are detailed.