| abstract |
The invention relates to methods and systems for high throughput and quantitative processing, assaying and development of microarrays of DNA, proteins and other biological and chemical reagents. An in-line processing system (100) can be utilized based on a continuous indexing of microarray slides or substrates (130) through a series of processes where different functions or processes are performed at different positions on a conveyor (122). A batch processing system (200) can also be utilized, wherein the process steps are performed serially to an array of microarray slides or substrates (130) mounted on a movable table or carriage (222). A versatile positive displacement aerosol dispensing system (10) has the ability to aspirate fluid. A universal substrate cassette (310) can hold a plurality of substrates or slides (130) through a number of process steps without the need to remove the substrates or slides (130) from the cassette (310). |