Method for conducting tests, particularly comparative tests

摘要

The method for conducting tests, on a plurality of samples particularly cell samples employs apparatus which allows a first test to be carried out on some of the samples, the results of this test determining which of further tests involving optical properties of the samples of the transfer of the samples onto a receiving member should be carried out, these further tests being carried out with the use of the same apparatus comprising receptacle member in the form of at least one row of receptacles having a closed end and an open end, and a holder adapted to receive the receptacle member in a predetermined orientation. The receptacle member holder has means for determining the relative position of the unitary receptacle member and a microscope slide to allow use of the receptacle member in a centrifuge for sedimentation of the samples onto the microscope slide. The preferred material for the receptacle member is one having a high degree of optical transparency whilst being substantially non-adherent to cells especially tumour cells and several suitable materials are described.