Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatus for automated sample preparation for MALDI-TOF MS using columns in combination with a liquid handling system. The samples are typically biological such as serum or urine. The columns typically include a bed of media positioned within a modified pipette tip. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods for storing the prepared samples.

Abstract: The invention provides, inter alia, capillary extraction devices, and methods of making and using the same.

Abstract: In one aspect, a method for DNA mutation detection including the steps of PCR amplification using preferably Pho DNA polymerase, hybridization, and analysis by denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC), the method preferably utilizing a PCR buffer and other solutions that are compatible with DHPLC analysis. In other aspects, compositions and kits including a proofreading DNA polymerase, preferably Pho DNA polymerase, and a DHPLC compatible PCR buffer are provided.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of optimizing a process for extracting an analyte from a liquid sample. A plurality of samples can be processed simultaneously while varying several factors independently to determine extraction efficiency under a wide variety of conditions.

Abstract: The invention provides, inter alia, methods for synthesizing a molecule on the channel surface of a capillary, comprising the steps of: (i) covalently attaching a first chemical entity to the channel surface of a capillary; and (ii) covalently attaching a second chemical entity to the first chemical entity, wherein the covalent attachment steps are part of a process for synthesizing a molecule on the channel surface.

Abstract: The invention provides a sample preparation device for processing a plurality of fluid samples comprising: (a) a plurality of sample processing chambers connected in parallel, each chamber having an internal surface and inlet and outlet ports; (b) media chambers disposed within each sample processing chamber, each media chamber comprising: (i) a bottom frit attached to and extending across the sample processing chamber; and (ii) a top barrier attached to and extending across the sample processing chamber between the bottom frit and the inlet port, wherein the top barrier, bottom frit and internal surface define a media chamber having a first average cross-sectional area; and (c) a bed of separation medium positioned inside the media chamber. In certain embodiments, the top barrier is a frit and/or the separation medium comprises gel resin beads.

Abstract: The invention provides cover seals for covering microplates in a manner which attenuates evaporation of liquid from the microplate, while allowing pipette tip access to wells of the microplate.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column, often between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods characterized by the use of hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic membranes as frits, and/or by the inclusion of a wad of fibrous material to act as a wicking agent.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods and devices for desalting and/or buffer exchange of a sample.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies. The invention also provides methods for using the extraction columns including methods for varying parameters, such as the volume of sample loaded, the number of capture cycles performed, and the number or wash cycles performed to achieve a particular desired result.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies.

Abstract: Methods and reagents for the detection and/or quantification of silanol groups on a silica surface are provided. In certain embodiments, the subject methods are used to evaluate the channel surface of a silica capillary tubing. This evaluation can facilitate methods for derivatizing and/or chemically modifying such surfaces.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods of storing columns in a wet state.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods characterized by the elution of analyte in a small volume of liquid.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction media positioned in the column between two frits. In some embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as column bodies. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods characterized by the use of verly slow flow rates.