Abstract: Underdrain design for a multiwell device that when fixed to the device (either as an integral or removable component thereof), allows for adequate venting during filtration, minimizes or prevents air lock, and has improved structural integrity. Also disclosed is a laboratory device designed particularly for a multiplate format that includes a plate or tray having a plurality of wells, and an underdrain in fluid communication with each of the plurality of wells. The underdrain can be a separate, removable piece, or can be an integral unitary structure with the plate or tray forming a one-piece design. The design is preferably in compliance with SBS format.

Abstract: The present invention provides an underdrain having an improved spout. The underdrain has particular utility in the construction of both single-well and microarray filtration devices. In a principal embodiment, the underdrain is characterized by its incorporation of a straight-walled, roughly-textured spout, the spout being provided with microhole(s) at a terminal end thereof for the discharge of fluid conducted through the underdrain. An array comprising several of such underdrains can be mated with a corresponding array of wells, with separation material (e.g., membrane material) provided therebetween. The resultant microarray filtration device can be used for conducting several fluid assays contemporaneously with, for example, good “pendant drop” control and low “cross-talk”.

Abstract: An evaporation control device for a multiwell plate system that reduces the evaporation from the plate such as during centrifugation. Preferably it substantially conforms to the shape and size of the plate system. A first design is a sheet material interposed between the adjacent surface so f the plates. A second is a cover that has a skirt that extends downward from the top of the plate system to at least a point below the filter plate/collection plate interface. Preferably, the cover has a skirt that extends down to approximately the bottom of the collection plate and is formed of thin plastic that even more preferably has been vacuum formed into shape. A third embodiment is a combination of the two control devices.

Abstract: The combination of a supported UF membrane having low non-specific binding (NSB) and high protein retention of the tested chemical entity (CE) in a device that is SBS complaint. The membrane is heat sealed to form one or more integral wells that are used to reduce NSB and improve protein retention and provides a simple, flexible way to reduce CE, such as drug and drug candidate (and other small molecule) NSB so that drug binding studies may more closely predict the behavior of these compounds in vivo.

Abstract: A filter punch construction is provided for use in conjunction with a multiwell filtration device wherein each well includes a filtration membrane. The punch has a leading surface to which is secured an elongated piercing member having a sharp point and a periphery comprising holding or cutting edges and a following surface which has a guide member. The piercing member and cutting edges pierce the filtration membrane in each well and push the entire filter and retentate thereon into a receptacle vial.