Types of Micropipettes Definition, Parts and Uses

High-quality micropipettes are particular devices that stand out for their accuracy, particularly in performing liquid handling tasks, and, therefore, they are important in every laboratory. Micropipettes are manufactured for different fields of study and research, and this includes molecular biology and pharmaceutical research, where accuracy is critical. Proper pipette use can help minimize errors and, at the same time, improve the replicates that can be obtained from the procedures performed, so the efficiency is also improved.

Contamination as well as compliance problems that are often a risk when using low-quality micropipettes, are solved by investing in high-quality products. This blog will focus on the reasons why every laboratory must have a high-quality micropipette to achieve consistency and repeatability.

What is a Micropipette?

Unlike machinery, micropipettes are known as devices or gadgets and are advanced instruments that can serve multiple purposes in a laboratory. Each micropipette is manufactured to have volume range specifications. This means that micropipettes rely on sophisticated mechanisms for the precise and accurate transfer of small amounts of liquids or volume ranges, usually measured in microliters (µL) or even less. That accuracy and precision are critical is self-evident in microbiology and molecular biology to even chemistry and pharmaceutical research and studies.

Contamination and workflow interference are reduced and minimized through a fixed volume, variable volume, or multichannel micropipette. These types of micropipettes have enhanced ergonomic features and highly precise advancements in calibration, allowing them to serve scientific practices that rely on precision in micropipette measurement.

Different Types of Micropipettes and Their Uses

In the laboratory context, there are different types of micropipettes, as each is specifically crafted to meet particular laboratory requirements. These are the most popular types of micropipettes and their functions:

Fixed Volume Micropipettes

As the name suggests, frozen fixed volume micropipettes can only be set at one predetermined volume. This feature allows for efficiency and accuracy every time the liquid is dispensed. Fixed volume micropipettes are beneficial for repetitive procedures since no adjustment is made to the amount of liquid transferred. These devices are widely used in clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical testing, and quality control laboratories, which require high accuracy and precision as well as accuracy. Their simple construction makes them user-friendly, and as a result, they are the most commonly applied laboratory instruments.

Variable Volume Micropipettes

Variable volume micropipettes offer more functionality as the user can vary the volume of liquid within a predetermined range. This means they can be used in broader contexts, which include molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemical research. Various tasks like DNA sequencing, protein analysis, and cell culturing are frequently assigned to scientists and researchers. Their adjustable nature minimizes accessibility issues as is the case in laboratories where many experiments are conducted, each one requiring a different micropipette size.

Multichannel Micropipettes

Multichannel micropipettes are made to increase efficiency by making it possible for several liquid transfers at the same time. Multichannel micropipettes are made in several different configurations, but the most common ones are the 8 or 12-channel versions. These items are widely used in high-sample ELISA, PCR, and high-throughput screening. In diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical investigations, and biotechnology experiments, these micropipettes reduce manual effort expended towards task completion, increasing productivity. The ergonomically designed handles are comfortable to use over long periods and are ideal for repetitive micropipette tasks.

Electronic Micropipettes

Electronic micropipettes use the same concept as micromanipulators, but their ergonomic features enhance accuracy and usability even more. These advanced micropipettes feature automatic control systems that significantly improve the ease of liquid dispensing and associated manual errors. They are especially useful for precision work as in genetic studies, drug development processes, and in any environment where liquid needs to be handled automatically with great care. The electronically controlled micropipette parts are pre-programmed to remove the guesswork in repetitive tasks and are the most ideal for critical accuracy work. The simple ease of use and lack of manual work make them ideal for laboratories that conduct many experiments.

Micropipette Volumes

Every time a liquid is poured out using a micropipette, it is important that each volume measurement is accurate for the experiment to be successful. There are different types of micropipettes that are made for specific purposes and range from accommodating certain volume ranges in cubic microliters. Micropipette measurement is done in µL, and the unit helps to standardize the experiments to reduce inaccuracies.

P10, P20, P100, P200, and P1000 are commonly used micropipette sizes. P10, for example, has a variable range of 0.5-10 µL and is most suited for extremely small liquid increments. The P10 range is broad and includes molecular biology and DNA sequencing. The P20, on the other hand, has a broader range than P10 and can handle a liquid volume from 2-20 µL. This micropipette is frequently used in biochemical tests while being a reagent holder. A P100 micropipette is appropriate for intervals of 10-100 microliters and is perfect for any basic routine work in the laboratory like sample preparation and other activities.

For most microbiological work and pharmaceutical research, the P200 is the most appropriate, serving a range from 20-200 µL. Finally, the P1000 is the least precise but is the best for preparing larger solutions and dilutions and is used for transfers of 100-1000 µL.

Parts of a Micropipette and Their Functions

A micropipette consists of many parts that allow precision in volume measurement and liquid dispensing. Understanding these parts is crucial in the micropipette use, maintenance, and calibration of the device. Below are the essential micropipette parts and their functions.

Plunger

The part of the micropipette that is pressed down to create suction is the tip of the plunger, which works like a piston-cylinder for any liquid retrieval or dispensing. The required suction and release power, blocking suction, and releasing it, is done by the plunger. Plungers in most cases, have two stops: the first enables liquids to be drawn, while the second enables full liquid dismissal.

Barrel

The barrel houses the volume scale that indicates the set volume and encapsulates the plunger along with the piston assembly. Moreover, the barrel offers sufficient safety to the internal elements and guarantees that all micropipette parts carry out their functions unimpeded.

Tip Ejector

The tip ejector enables the micropipette tips to be removed post-dispensing of the liquid without the risk of contamination. In addition, this component minimizes the possibility of cross-contamination and allows for safe dispensing without direct contact with the micropipette tips, thereby improving safety and cleanliness within the lab.

Volume Adjustment Dial

With this dial, one is able to preset the volumetric fill of the micropipette. The dial is located on the head of the micropipette and is calibrated to a selected unit of micropipette measurement. It is a prerequisite during an experiment to adjust the fluid quantity to the defined parameters of the device’s constructive design for proper pipette use in the laboratory.

Piston

The suction and dispensing actions are made possible by the internal component of the device known as the piston. It is located under the plunger and moves when the plunger lever is pushed. The piston serves as an integral aspect of fluid manipulation by providing control over the volume of liquid dispensed.

Micropipette Tip

The micropipette tip is the point of contact between the micropipette and the solution being dispensed. Additionally, there are micropipette tips for different designs and volume measuring capacities. The tip is vital for ensuring that no contamination occurs when transferring liquids.

Display or Volume Indicator

Advanced types of micropipettes have a digital display that shows the set volume. This feature helps users verify settings before employing the micropipette, thus controlling errors. Digital micropipettes are more accurate and user-friendly for large-quantity operations.

What You Should Know to Maintain a Micropipette

The following are key considerations when using a micropipette:

• Pick the Micropipette That Is Appropriate for the Volume You Intend to Pipette
  
• Properly Secure the Pipette Tip
• Set Volume to the Correct Desired Reading
• Correct Technique in Drawing Liquid
• Dispensing the Liquid
• Avoid contact with the Liquid Container
• Properly Eject the Micropipette Tip

How to Choose the Right Micropipette for the Lab

When selecting a micropipette, consider the following factors:

• Identify the Volume Range Requirements
• Consider Precision and Accuracy
• Pick the Correct Category
• Assess Ergonomics
• Check Calibration and Warranty
• Consider Cost-Effectiveness

Conclusion

The accuracy, efficiency, and precision of modern scientific experiments rely on selecting the right micropipette. Various micropipette types cater to different volume requirements, precision levels, and ergonomic features. Proper maintenance and micropipette calibration enhance longevity, making micropipettes indispensable for laboratory tasks.