Method for creating miniaturized cell arrays patented

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued and assigned U.S. Patent Number 6,103,479, entitled "Miniaturized Cell Array Methods and Apparatus for Cell-Based Screening," to Cellomics Inc. (Pittsburgh). The patent covers methods for producing a cassette containing a micro-patterned chemical array to which cells are bound and a chamber that provides a fluid delivery system for delivering reagents to the cells on the substrate. The patent claims cover key technology elements related to the company's CellChip program.

Cellomics Inc., a privately held corporation founded in October 1996, is focused on cell-based drug discovery. Cellomics' products utilize novel fluorescence-based reagents in automated platforms, and cellular informatics in an effort to increase the productivity of the drug discovery process.

For more information: Cellomics Inc., 635 William Pitt Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15238. Tel: 412-826-3600. Fax: 412-826-3850.

Edited by Jim Pomager
Assistant Editor, Drug Discovery Online