Encoding of microcarriers

Abstract

Encoded microcarriers, and more specifically microcarriers having codes written on them. Methods for writing the codes on the microcarriers, methods of reading the codes, and methods of using the encoded microcarriers. A preferred method of encoding the microcarriers involves exposing microcarriers containing a bleachable substance to a high spatial resolution light source to bleach the codes on the microcarriers. The encoded microcarriers may be used, for example, as support materials in chemical and biological assays and syntheses.

1 - 26 . (canceled)  
   
   
       27 . An encoded microcarrier, 
 wherein the microcarrier is encoded by a code written on the surface of the microcarrier or at an internal depth of the microcarrier.    
   
   
       28 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 27 , 
 wherein the microcarrier is encoded by a code written at an internal depth of the microcarrier.    
   
   
       29 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 28 , 
 wherein the microcarrier is encoded by a code written in the center plane of the microcarrier.    
   
   
       30 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 29 , 
 wherein the microcarrier is a microsphere.    
   
   
       31 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 30 , 
 wherein the microsphere has a diameter of 1 to 200 μm.    
   
   
       32 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 27 , 
 wherein the code is written by exposing the microcarrier to an electromagnetic source.    
   
   
       33 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 32 , 
 wherein the code is written by exposing the microcarrier to a source emitting X-rays, α-rays, β-rays, or an ion beam.    
   
   
       34 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 32 , 
 wherein the code is written by exposing the microcarrier to a high spatial resolution light source.    
   
   
       35 . An encoded microcarrier according to  claim 27 , 
 wherein the code is written by photobleaching, photochroming, or chemical etching.