Dispersion serial dilution methods using the gradient diluter device.

A solute aspirated into a prefilled tube of diluent undergoes a dilution effect known as dispersion. Traditionally the effects of dispersion have been considered a negative consequence of using liquid-filled fixed-tip liquid handlers. We present a novel device and technique that utilizes the effects of dispersion to the benefit of making dilutions. The device known as the Gradient Diluter extends the dilution range of practical serial dilutions to six orders of magnitude in final volumes as low as 10 µL. Presented are the device, dispersion methods, and validation tests using fluorescence detection of sulforhodamine and the high-performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet detection of furosemide. In addition, a T-cell inhibition assay of a relevant downstream protein is used to demonstrate IC(50) curves made with the Gradient Diluter compare favorably with those generated by hand.

An inline QC method for determining serial dilution performance of DMSO-based systems.

Serial dilution of compounds solubilized in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) for dose-response curves is a common method for efficacy analysis of potential drug candidates. In general, serial dilution methods are particularly prone to error propagation because each dilution is dependent on the previous concentration. Moreover, assumptions about quality control parameters (i.e., dye linearity) can lead to an erroneous process. Here, an inline performance measurement is sought to improve the precision and accuracy of dilution plates. Sulforhodamine 101 (S101) dye is introduced as the quantitative fluorometric method of choice for DMSO-based systems. Although S101 in DMSO behaves in a nonlinear fashion over its detectable range, we account for this with a direct calibration method that includes every point of the dilution template. This report contains dye selection rationale for the S101 dye and its use in quantifying the performance of 96- and 384-well dilution protocols as tested on five identical instruments.

Mixing in 384-well plates: issues, measurements, and solutions.

Mixing in standard 384-well plates is different from mixing in 96-well formats. The aspect ratio of a typical well, the balance of surface tension and mass of the fluids, and the scale of diffusion all add to the increased difficulty in mixing fluids in higher-density plates. Here we examine two methods to measure mixing and some common techniques for mixing in 384-well plates. While conventional shaking can suffice, alternative methods can accelerate and improve the efficiency of mixing in 384-well plates.