| 摘要 |
The invention provides mechanical devices that can be used to combine reagents and discover their effects on living cells. A device of the invention holds liquids in open-ended channels and transfers liquids from one channel to another by bringing a second channel into proximity and alignment with an open end of a first channel. Channels of the device can include fluid partitions (e.g., water-oil-water emulsions) that include living cells. The device includes a mechanical system the operation of which causes a receiving channel to pass among supply channels, aligning with each in turn, to pick up chemicals from those channels and make new combinations within the receiving channel. The device then presents those new chemical combinations to the living cells within their respective partitions, thereby allowing for the determination of the effects of those combinations on living cells. |
