Fiber optic microwell arrays support sensitive biological analyses and offer economic advantages over conventional arrays. Researchers use microwell arrays to gather high-speed, high-density direct contact data reliably from fluorescence- and luminescence-based assays.
Incom chemically removes fiber cores to specified depths while leaving the fiber clads intact, transforming conventional fiber optic faceplates into three-dimensional microstructures with highly dense patterns of wells. The high sample density allows millions of simultaneous reactions in the space of an ordinary laboratory slide, saving money and time in studying complex test variables. Scientists can specify well diameters, depths, and well-to-well spacing to create a custom microwell array that will specifically meet their needs. In addition to the well plates having millions of analytical sites, each site is also an optical fiber that transfers the light from one side of the faceplate to the other without any crosstalk between the wells themselves. This enhances resolution and increases signal-to-noise ratio when compared to a conventional glass or polystyrene bottom well plates.