The next generation of kinetic cell-based assays

Molecular Devices has introduced FlexStation 3 next- generation multi-detection benchtop reader with fluidics, based on the SpectraMax M5 multi-detection system with the addition of liquid handling

FlexStation 3 is based on Molecular Devices's popular SpectraMax M5 multi-detection system with the addition of liquid handling.

The system was developed for use in research, assay development and lead optimisation environments to address applications for researchers performing assay development and small-scale screens.

FlexStation 3 addresses a wide variety of assays that require liquid handling, including fast kinetic assays such as calcium mobilisation or dual luciferase reporter gene, as well as traditional endpoint or slow kinetic assays requiring automation liquid transfer prior to plate reading.

The system uses an eight- or 16-channel pipettor head to transfer reagents from 96 or 384 distinct wells of a source plate to a read plate, simultaneously.

Direct transfer reduces reagent consumption and allows more assay conditions to be explored in a single microplate, making the system more amenable to agonist and antagonist assay formats.

In addition, with integrated pipetting, researchers can adjust dispense parameters to optimize the assay's robustness, such as accommodating cells with different adherence characteristics or adjusting dispense speed to provide adequate mixing.

Jennifer McKie, director of marketing at Molecular Devices, commented: "The FlexStation 3 next-generation system is an improved version of our FlexStation II instrument, and is based on the proven optics of our powerful SpectraMax M5 multi-detection reader.

"FlexStation 3 will address more applications in different modes, particularly fast luminescence and absorbance assays.

"The system also has increased reliability since the eight- and 16-channel pipettor heads are more accurately aligned to the tip racks, enabling customers to more reliably and easily change pipettor heads".

McKie continued, "In addition, disposable tips minimise carry-over between plates and experiments, as well as making the system easy to clean.".

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