Abstract: High density multiplexing assays for proteins, nucleic acids, and other molecules are described based upon using mass spectrometry detection. A solid-state support assay format is utilized, whereby, the bead carries both a coding molecule to track the sample or analyte and the molecule(s) necessary to perform an affinity-based assay. After the necessary reactions are complete, all of the components, e.g., coding molecule, binding molecule, analyte, and/or label are dissociated for analysis in a mass spectrometer. Various means of performing detection for the assays include different types of mass spectrometers with different types of sampling systems, including MALDI-TOF and ESI.

Abstract: A method of making a sample plate for mass spectrometric analysis of a specimen is provided comprising applying a mask to a substrate to form at least one sample site. The sample plate comprises a substrate having an electrically conductive surface, a mask applied to the electrically conductive surface. The mask has a rougher surface than the substrate. The sample site comprises a central portion formed from the electrically conductive surface and a marginal portion formed from the mask where the marginal portion is more hydrophobic than the central portion.

Abstract: A method of making a sample plate for mass spectrometric analysis of a specimen is provided comprising applying a mask to a substrate to form at least one sample site. The sample plate comprises a substrate having an electrically conductive surface, a mask applied to the electrically conductive surface. The mask has a rougher surface than the substrate. The sample site comprises a central portion formed from the electrically conductive surface and a marginal portion formed from the mask where the marginal portion is more hydrophobic than the central portion.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction and preferably a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a reaction mixture in at least one capillary tube. Several different embodiments are disclosed. One embodiment cycles a sample through a capillary tube loop passing through two thermostatted fluid baths. Another embodiment has the capillary tube routed alternatingly between two heat exchangers to that the sample makes only one pass through the tube. Other embodiments maintain the heat exchangers stationary and translate the samples between them. Still further embodiments maintain the samples stationary and either automatically translate or rotate the heat exchangers past the samples contained within the capillary tubes to perform the thermal cycles necessary for the amplification reaction.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction and preferably a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a reaction mixture in at least one capillary tube. Several different embodiments are disclosed. One embodiment cycles a sample through a capillary tube loop passing through two thermostatted fluid baths. Another embodiment has the capillary tube routed alternatingly between two heat exchangers to that the sample makes only one pass through the tube. Other embodiments maintain the heat exchangers stationary and translate the samples between them. Still further embodiments maintain the samples stationary and either automatically translate or rotate the heat exchangers past the samples contained within the capillary tubes to perform the thermal cycles necessary for the amplification reaction.