Abstract: A magnetic particle (30, 70) has a layered structure (6, 56) between a top surface of the particle and an opposed bottom surface of the particle. Layers of the structure include one or more non- magnetic layer(s) and one or more magnetized layer(s). The ratio of a lateral dimension of the one or more magnetized layers to the aggregate thickness of the magnetized layer or layers is greater than 500. A plurality of such magnetic particles (30, 70) can be functionalised and marked with readable codes (16, 66) corresponding to the functionalisation, for use for performing assays such as bioassays.

Abstract: A carrier system (100) provides a carrier or carriers (12) for carrying assay samples in an assay. The carrier(s) are secured to a substrate (10) by a release layer (14). The carrier(s) are suitable for receiving an assay sample, and the release layer is configured to release the carrier(s) from the substrate in the presence of a biocompatible aqueous solution. To perform an assay a biocompatible aqueous solution, in which the assay sample is usually suspended, is supplied to the carrier system. The assay sample is received by the carrier(s) and the release layer is activated by the biocompatible aqueous solution to release the carrier.

Abstract: A magnetic particle (30, 70) has a layered structure (6, 56) between a top surface of the particle and an opposed bottom surface of the particle. Layers of the structure include one or more nonmagnetic layer(s) and one or more magnetized layer(s). The ratio of a lateral dimension of the one or more magnetized layers to the aggregate thickness of the magnetized layer or layers is greater than 500. A plurality of such magnetic particles (30, 70) can be functionalised and marked with readable codes (16, 66) corresponding to the functionalisation, for use for performing assays such as bioassays.

Abstract: A magnetic particle (30, 70) has a layered structure (6, 56) between a top surface of the particle and an opposed bottom surface of the particle. Layers of the structure include one or more nonmagnetic layer(s) and one or more magnetized layer(s). The ratio of a lateral dimension of the one or more magnetized layers to the aggregate thickness of the magnetized layer or layers is greater than 500. A plurality of such magnetic particles (30, 70) can be functionalised and marked with readable codes (16, 66) corresponding to the functionalisation, for use for performing assays such as bioassays.