MultiwellPlatten

Multiwellplatten, also known as multiwell plates, are flat plastic plates containing an array of small wells that serve as individual reaction chambers. They enable parallel processing of many samples under identical or varied conditions, supporting high-throughput screening, quantitative assays, and cell-based experiments. Plates come in standardized formats with defined well counts and footprints, including 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, 384, and 1536 wells.

Materials and design vary to suit different assays. Commonly used materials are polystyrene or polypropylene; some plates are optically clear for absorbance, fluorescence, or luminescence measurements, while others are opaque. Surfaces may be tissue culture treated to promote cell attachment or low-binding for suspension assays. Bottom shapes include flat-bottom, U-bottom, and round-bottom designs, influencing imaging, washing efficiency, and cell culture outcomes. Edge wells can differ in evaporation rates and are sometimes avoided in automated runs.

Coatings and surface treatments enhance compatibility with specific cells or assays. Examples include collagen, poly-D-lysine, or other extracellular matrix components. Some plates are gas-permeable to support long-term cell culture under incubator conditions.

Applications are broad, spanning enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), reporter gene assays, cell viability and cytotoxicity testing, qPCR and nucleic acid quantification, and small-molecule or siRNA screening. The format is optimized for automation, with compatibility for robotic dispensers and plate readers that follow SBS (Society for Biomolecular Sciences) standards.

Manufacturers include several major suppliers, and quality considerations emphasize uniform well volume, optical properties, surface coatings, and lot-to-lot consistency. Proper handling, sealing, and storage help minimize evaporation and contamination.