Importance

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Abstract

Devices and methods for integrated packaging, shipping, storage and precise dispensing of extremely small volumes of liquids such as aqueous solutions and compounds dissolved in organic solvents are disclosed. Devices of the invention include a sealed reservoir with an integrated metering tap. The tap includes a metering tube, which is translatable between a fill position inside the reservoir and an expel position outside the reservoir. The metering tube includes: (1) a tube end closure in a lower portion of the tube, (2) a port above the tube end closure, and (3) a piston in an upper portion of the tube. The piston is movable between a down position that seals the side port and an up position above the port. Movement of the piston from the up position to the down position can displace from 10 nanoliters to 20 microliters, e.g., from 20 nanoliters to 2 microliters, or 50 nanoliters to 500 nanoliters. Integrated arrays of reservoir/tap units are suitable for use in automated, multiwell formats such as those commonly used for high-throughput screening.

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First Claim