Abstract: Stable, enzymatically triggered chemiluminescent 1,2-dioxetanes with improved water solubility are provided. Dioxetanes further instituted with two or more water-solubilizing groups disposed on the dioxetane structure provide superior performance by eliminating the problem of reagent carryover when used in assays performed on capsule chemistry analytical systems. Compositions comprising a dioxetane with two or more water-solubilizing groups, a non-polymeric cationic surfactant enhancer and optionally a fluorescer, for providing enhanced chemiluminescence are also provided.

Abstract: Improved assay methods utilizing stable, enzymatically triggered chemiluminescent 1,2-dioxetanes with improved water solubility are provided. Assays are performed by a capsule chemistry analytical assay method wherein fluid capsules comprising discrete aqueous segments containing either a chemiluminescent dioxetane reagent or an activating agent separated by an oil-based isolating fluid are flowed through a conduit, and subsequently reacted to produce light.The improvement comprises using a dioxetane substituted with two or more water-solubilizing groups disposed on the dioxetane structure to provide the chemiluminescence. Compositions comprising such a dioxetane, a non-polymeric surfactant enhancer and optionally a fluorescer, provide enhanced chemiluminescence and eliminate the problem of reagent carryover when used in assays performed on capsule chemistry analytical systems.

Abstract: Living cells suspensed in a saline buffering media are exposed to microwave radiation without raising the temperature of the cells, to study the non-thermal effects of radiation on the cells, in an apparatus which includes a vertically disposed microwave waveguide having a partitioned end filled with a temperature controlled liquid solution. The sample is contained in a micropipette which projects across the width of the waveguide through the solution. The radiation projected through the waveguide and into the solution is measured.