µDrop: a system for high-throughput small-angle X-ray scattering measurements of microlitre samples

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Automated sample handling is crucial for high-throughput analysis in scientific research.
• Existing systems often face challenges with cleaning, efficiency, and sample volume limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the µDrop Sample Changer, an automated system for analyzing large numbers of liquid samples.
• To demonstrate the system's efficiency, reliability, and suitability for various applications, including small-angle X-ray scattering.

Main Methods:

• Development of a robotic arm with a pipetting mechanism and a novel drop-based sample holder.
• Utilizing surface tension to suspend liquid drops between parallel plates, eliminating transfer lines.
• Testing with protein solutions (bovine serum albumin, lysozyme) and a lipid solution for phase transition observation.

Main Results:

• The µDrop Sample Changer achieves cycle times under 35 seconds and processes up to 480 samples per run.
• Demonstrated high reliability with a drop misplacement rate of approximately 0.2%.
• Successful measurements were performed with very low sample volumes, down to 6 µl, with controlled temperature capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The µDrop Sample Changer offers a significant advancement in automated liquid sample analysis, improving efficiency and reducing sample volume requirements.
• Its design facilitates easier cleaning and superior background performance compared to capillary-based systems.
• The instrument is well-suited for demanding applications like small-angle X-ray scattering in biological research.