Extension of ultra-high-throughput experiment (UHTE) approaches to new assay methodologies is often limited by compromised data quality when samples are miniaturized. Overcoming this challenge requires attending to all components of an automated laboratory system contributing to assay variability. A key but often neglected source is the high-density multiwell platform or microtiter plate. Materials from which plates are fabricated may degrade or otherwise compromise an assay through a variety of sources, including structural weakness, distortion of optical signals, and chemical contamination. Cyclic olefin polymer (COP) resins (CAS Registry Number 26007-43-2, inclusive of polymers and copolymers, sometimes referred to as cyclo-olefin polymers or copolymers) are receiving attention for their structural strength, optical clarity, and biocompatibility. The physical and chemical properties of COP are reviewed for their ramifications on the performance of high-density multiwell plates. Cells known to be difficult to culture in standard plasticware thrive in miniaturized COP wells. In addition, cell-based assays whose data deteriorated when miniaturized in standard plastic reveal a robust recovery of data quality when miniaturized in COP. It is hoped that the material qualities and advantages of COP become better appreciated among the screening and biological communities.

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Miniaturization of biological assays requires dispensing liquids in the submicroliter range of volumes. Accuracy and reproducibility of dispensing this range depend on both the dispenser and the receptacle in which the assay is constructed. Miniaturization technologies developed by Aurora Discovery, Inc. (San Diego, CA) include high-density multiwell plates for assay samples and reagent storage, as well as piezo-based and solenoid valve-based liquid dispensers. Some basic principles of small-volume dispensing by jetting are described to provide context for dispenser design and function. Performance of the latest instruments incorporating these dispensing devices is presented.

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