Microplates, also known as microtiter plates, microwell plates, or multiwell plates, are flat plates with multiple “wells” used as small test tubes. These versatile plates have become standard tools in analytical research and clinical diagnostic testing laboratories. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of microplates:

1. Design and Composition:

   • Microplates are small plastic reaction vessels, typically made of high-quality plastic materials.
   • They consist of a flat plate with multiple wells arranged in orderly rows. The number of wells can vary, with common formats including 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, 384, or even 1536 sample wells.
   • Each well holds a volume ranging from tens of nanoliters to several milliliters of liquid.
   • Wells can be circular or square, and some are designed with close-fitting silicone cap-mats for compound storage applications.

2. Applications:

   • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Microplates play a crucial role in ELISA, which is the basis for most modern medical diagnostic testing in humans and animals.
   • Filtration, Separation, and Optical Detection: Microplates are used for filtration, separation, and optical detection in life science research.
   • Cell Culture and Antimicrobial Activity: Microplates are modified for whole live cell studies, with surfaces treated to enhance cell adherence.
   • Storage and Reaction Mixing: They can store dry powder or support glass tube inserts.
   • Biomedical Studies: Microplates are employed in various fields, including therapeutics, diagnostics, molecular biology, pharmaceutics, and biomedical research.