Quantitative autoradiographic imaging using gas-counter technology

Gas counters based on the multiwire proportional counter (MWPC) and multistep avalanche (MSA) technologies can combine the functions of imaging and quantitation (or assay) of radioactively labelled electrophoretograms and blots. Submillimeter spatial resolutions combined with good quantitation have been achieved for the most common beta-emitting radio labels. The current state of development of this technology is reviewed and assessments of the performance of these devices relative to the more traditional systems (X-ray film and the scintillation counter) presented. Particular attention is paid to the potential of these devices to enhance the productivity of the scanning of blots and the performance of assays.