MESH FOR CELL LAYER PREPARATION

Methods and devices for creating monolayer arrays of cells or particles are described which may be used for high-throughput cell sorting and analysis, or other particle sorting applications. A cell loading system is described, the system comprising a porous mesh having a plurality of openings arranged in a random or repeating pattern across a surface. The porous mesh is used for preparing a layer of target particles, e.g., cells, distributed and spaced apart in a two-dimensional configuration on or within the mesh. Each of the plurality of openings in the mesh is configured to receive and permit a target particle to pass through when a fluid containing the target particles is dispensed on the surface of the mesh.