Abstract: Preparation of an immunoassay gel substrate which includes the steps of depositing on an immobilizing support structure a liquid mass of a gel-forming emulsion which coalesces into a thick gel-like matrix film characterized by substantial non-agglomerated matrix homogeneity, treating the resulting film to alter matrix homogeneity by agglomerating particles which form part of the gel, and as a consequence of the treating step establishing the object gel. Treating may be performed either by subjecting the gel to multiple time-vigorous water-wash and dry cycles, by emersing the gel in water for a relatively long period of time, or by wetting the gel and then subjecting it to one or more freeze/thaw cycles.

Abstract: A substrate for fluoroimmunoassay is disclosed comprising a swellable, rehydratable polymeric protein-binding material forming a three-dimensional matrix; first particulate, light scattering centers distributed in the polymeric matrix capable of scattering visible light; and second particulate, light-scattering centers distributed in the polymeric matrix capable of reflecting fluorescent excitation light and absorbing all other light. The substrate efficiently binds proteins and enhances transmitted fluorescent light and thus increases the sensitivity of assays involving fluorescent measurements. The polymeric protein binding material is preferable an acrylic copolymer. The first light scattering centers are preferably oxides of titanium and zinc, and the second light-scattering centers are preferably a phthalocyanin compound.

Abstract: A test slide for the performance of a series of immunoassay tests having: a substantially elongated and thin body of solid material; a plurality of individual test wells formed in said body; alignment means formed in said body in association with each of said wells; and movement facilitating means formed in said body; said slide being suitable for insertion into an automated testing device, said slide moving by said movement facilitating means, and said wells being aligned for detection by said alignment means.

Abstract: A solid-phase immunosubstrate (14) which has a surface coating (12) composed of a water based emulsion of microdiameter sized latex polymer beads (16) and materials which act as light scattering centers (17), said surface coating (12) having an immunoreagent added thereto to form an immunoreactive immunosubstrate (27). An overcoating (28) being formed on said surface coating (12), said overcoating having a higher percentage of similarly sized latex polymer beads (16) contained therein.