Devices and methods for evaulating the quality of a sample for use in an array assay

摘要

Methods for evaluating whether a sample of at least one detectably-labeled target biomolecule is suitable for use in an array based assay are provided. The subject methods include: (1) providing a substrate having an evaluation array thereon; (2) contacting the evaluation array with the sample; (3) detecting any resultant target biomolecules to obtain signal data; and (4) processing the signal data to evaluate whether the sample is suitable for use in a biopolymeric array assay. Many embodiments of the subject methods include using a volume of sample that does not exceed about 5 mul and/or incubating the sample with the array for a period of time that does not exceed about 4 hours. Also provided are methods of performing array based assays that include the subject evaluation methods, and kits for practicing the subject methods.