[Development of a validation method for readers of ELISA microplates]

The results, either positive or negative, of the ELISA tests performed on blood donors to detect viral markers, are always validated by reading microplates on photometers. In Rennes, these microplates can be read on MR 7000 (Dynatech) or IEMS (Labsystems) photometers. This step, the last one in the technical sequence, conditions the results. Regular checking of the photometers therefore may enhance the quality of the testing sequence. To check the quality of the photometers, we use a 96-well microplate, the "Universal Calibration Test Plate" marketed by BIO-TEK Instruments USA. The plate includes 8 blank wells, 6 wells equipped with glass filters (3 stained and 3 unstained). This plate comes with a table showing the optical density in relation to the wavelength. We first verify the repeatability of each photometer, and secondly, verify accuracy. The plate also permits verifying the linearity of each photometer. In view of the results, we were able to state that both photometers were accurate, since the results obtained were compatible with an optical density of +/- 0.024 +/- 1%. Do. The tests are repeatable, with a variation coefficient below 0.5%, linearity was verified (r: 0.999 for both photometers). Reading the plate only takes a few minutes and permits daily control of the photometers. It only requires that the test results be reported on a control card to follow-up possible deviations, and technical maintenance can thus be carried out immediately.