Transparency-based microplates for fluorescence quantification.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Standard microplates often require complex manufacturing, limiting their accessibility in resource-limited settings.
• Developing cost-effective and simple-to-produce laboratory consumables is crucial for global health equity.
• Enhancing the sensitivity of fluorescence measurements is vital for accurate biomolecular detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and validate a low-cost, easily fabricated microplate for resource-limited laboratories.
• To leverage liquid behavior (contact angle hysteresis) for improved optical measurements.
• To assess the performance of the novel microplate in fluorescence detection applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of thin well arrays by attaching a precisely cut silicone sheet to a transparency.
• Utilizing contact angle hysteresis to create taller liquid drop shapes for enhanced signal detection.
• Evaluating fluorescence measurements using both fiber optic and imaging modes with and without a lid.

Main Results:

• The novel microplate demonstrated significantly higher sensitivity in fluorescence measurements compared to standard microplates.
• Smaller liquid volumes were required, leading to potential reagent savings.
• Fabrication cost was estimated at AU $0.40 per plate with rapid production times (3.5 min for 96 wells, 6.5 min for 384 wells).
• The configuration without a lid yielded marginally more sensitive readings.

Conclusions:

• The developed silicone-based microplate offers a viable, cost-effective solution for sensitive fluorescence measurements in resource-limited environments.
• The simple fabrication method and enhanced optical properties make it a promising alternative to conventional microplates.
• This approach highlights the potential of material properties and simple engineering for advancing diagnostic capabilities in underserved regions.