A map of an ELISA plate is essentially a template of the 96 wells found on a standard ELISA plate. With 96 wells, each containing an individual sample, it is critical to track exactly what has been placed in each well. An ELISA plate map helps to do exactly that.
An ELISA plate map is essentially a grid with 8 rows going down (A – H) and 12 rows going across (1 – 12). Each well can be identified by its corresponding letter and number such as B10. This well would be in the second row from the top and 10 columns from the left.
As in all ELISA tests, all standards, samples, and blanks are doubled with a serial dilution ELISA. Typically, wells A1 – B7 are standards, A8 and B8 are blanks, and the remaining 80 cells contain 40 samples (each doubled).
Automated ELISA Machine
A major benefit of the automated ELISA machine is that the need for manual ELISA plate mapping is eliminated. Automation not only takes care of running plates through the ELISA process, but it also does all of the rememberings. So, when the automated ELISA reader provides the results, it displays a perfect graph of the standard dilutions with each sample plotted and identified.
Besides ELISA plate mapping, so much manual work is eliminated allowing scientists and technicians to focus on other tasks such as interpreting the data, writing journal submissions, and designing new experiments.
Furthermore, using additional automation like an automated ELISA microplate washer saves even more time. It enhances laboratory safety by taking over the dangerous tasks of working with residual toxic ELISA reagents.
Fully Automated ELISA Reader
An ELISA reader makes obtaining the results of an ELISA straightforward. An automated ELISA reader contains a spectrophotometer that reads the colored reaction products and optical densities of the final products. And it does it without the need for manual ELISA plate mapping. But it does not stop there. These machines will also plot your standard dilution curve along with the samples saving countless hours in obtaining, organizing, and analyzing results. And with the automated ELISA plate map, there is never the risk of mistaking any of the 96 wells.
Fully Automated ELISA Machine
Just what can a “fully automated” ELISA machine do? They take over the technician’s job of doing everything from ELISA plate mapping to collecting and plotting fluorescence results. The benefits of automated ELISA machines include their ability to:
- Perform an entire ELISA from start to finish in as little as one hour (particularly relevant in diagnosing COVID-19).
- Test target proteins, antibodies, cytokines, growth factors, signaling molecules, transcription factors, IgG, IgM, IgA, N and S-proteins, and more.
- Examine samples from countless species of animals and plants.
- Use samples from serum, plasma, dried blood, etc.
- Handle all reagent dispensing.
- Perform sample dilution.
- Transfer samples from tubes to microplate wells.
- Wash microplates for reuse.
- Perform perfect incubation and washing with precise timing.
- Calculate results by determining absorbance with spectrophotometric measurements, chemiluminescence, and fluorescence.
- And much more.
ELISA Hudson Robotics
The benefits of an automated ELISA platform cannot be fully appreciated until one has explored the range of life science and pharmaceutical automation with an automation specialist. ELISA plate mapping is only one area where automation not only saves time and money, but like all laboratory automation, it dramatically increases overall productivity, experimental accuracy and precision, and result reproducibility.
What are the potential drawbacks or limitations of relying solely on automated ELISA machines for plate mapping, and how can laboratories ensure data accuracy and integrity in the absence of manual verification?
While automated ELISA machines offer efficiency gains, laboratories must be mindful of potential errors or software malfunctions that could compromise data accuracy. Implementing periodic manual checks or validation procedures can help ensure the integrity of results and mitigate risks associated with automated processes.
How can laboratories optimize the integration of automated ELISA machines with existing workflows and protocols, particularly when transitioning from manual processes to automated systems?
Laboratories should prioritize comprehensive training for personnel to ensure seamless integration of automated ELISA machines into existing workflows. Additionally, conducting thorough validation and performance assessments can help identify any compatibility issues and ensure that automated processes align with established protocols.
What considerations should laboratories take into account when selecting an automated ELISA machine, and how can they determine the most suitable solution based on factors such as throughput, versatility, and budgetary constraints?
Laboratories should evaluate factors such as throughput, assay versatility, and cost-effectiveness when selecting an automated ELISA machine. Conducting thorough assessments of technical specifications, performance capabilities, and potential return on investment can aid decision-makers in choosing the most suitable automation solution for their specific needs and budgetary considerations.
Hudson Robotics has been the leader in laboratory automation for nearly 40 years. They are the experts when it comes to improving the efficiency of your laboratory without breaking the bank. Contact them today to request a consultation about automation or learn more about everything from ELISA plate mapping to automation software to total laboratory automation.