Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making a stable thin film dried protein composition on a surface that has a protein denaturing capability and related devices. A thin film of a biologically active protein containing solution to be dried is deposited on the support surface wherein the film also contains a buffer that maintains the surface pH between about 5.0 and 9.0 during drying under normal pressures and a saccharide in an amount sufficient to stabilize the protein while drying. An advantage of the present invention is that one can make thin film assay devices, such as proteomic microarrays, using supports that normally would not be useful. These supports include modified, chemically derivatized or coated glass substrates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel device for separating plasma from a whole blood sample on a treated microporous membrane. An advantage of the present invention is that the sample can be assayed on the membrane after separation has occurred. A lateral flow chromatographic assay membrane has a sample application zone, a separation zone, and an analysis zone. An erythrocyte binding agent is added to the membrane in an amount sufficient to bind any erythrocytes present in the sample. Methods for using such devices are disclosed also.