Abstract: An inverted microwell (102) provides rapid and efficient microanalysis system (100) and method for screening of biological particles (128), particularly functional analysis of cells on a single cell basis. The use of an inverted open microwell system (102) permits identification of particles, cells, and biomolecules that may be combined to produce a desired functional effect also functional screening of secreted antibody therapeutic activity as well as the potential to recover cells and fluid, and optionally expand cells, such as antibody secreting cells, within the same microwell.

Abstract: Methods and systems for rapid and efficient screening of monoclonal antibodies and antibody-secreting cells, and particularly of single antibody-secreting cells, for both primary and functional characteristics, and particularly cell to cell interactions, in a microfluidic system, in particular an inverted open microwell system, where the particle(s) is not bound to a substrate.