Abstract: Microvolume liquid dispensers that provide simple and inexpensive approaches to making cytology microarrays. In some embodiments, the dispensers comprise tips that comprise an outer sleeve, typically shaped like a funnel, that holds a reciprocating needle or pin. The tip of the pin slightly extends beyond the distal opening of the outer sleeve in one position, and is retracted in another position. When the pin is in the distal position the pin contacts the inner surfaces of the sleeve and blocks cytology liquid from flowing through the opening of the sleeve. Thus the pin and sleeve cooperate to form a reservoir behind the blockage. When the pin is pushed up into the sleeve, for example by touching the tip to a glass slide, a passage is formed between the outer surface of the pin and the inner surface of the sleeve. The liquid in the reservoir then flows through the passage and onto the slide.

Abstract: Microvolume liquid dispensers that provide simple and inexpensive approaches to making cytology microarrays. In some embodiments, the dispensers comprise tips that comprise an outer sleeve, typically shaped like a funnel, that holds a reciprocating needle or pin. The tip of the pin slightly extends beyond the distal opening of the outer sleeve in one position, and is retracted in another position. When the pin is in the distal position the pin contacts the inner surfaces of the sleeve and blocks cytology liquid from flowing through the opening of the sleeve. Thus the pin and sleeve cooperate to form a reservoir behind the blockage. When the pin is pushed up into the sleeve, for example by touching the tip to a glass slide, a passage is formed between the outer surface of the pin and the inner surface of the sleeve. The liquid in the reservoir then flows through the passage and onto the slide.