Molecular Devices to Showcase Next Generation SpectraMax® MiniMax™ 300 Imaging Cytometer at Analytica

Also on show, enabling both ELISAs and Western Blot on one plate reader, the new ScanLater™ Western Blot Detection System is the first western blot application for a microplate reader.

The SpectraMax MiniMax 300 Imaging Cytometer now features the patent-pending StainFree™ Cell Detection algorithm, which enables cell confluency and cell counting measurements on an imaging plate reader without the need for destructive stains, saving researchers valuable time and money. With two additional fluorescence detection channels; green and red, researchers may now perform and analyze a wide range of cellular viability and cell toxicity assays, including ratiometric assays such as transfection efficiency. The SpectraMax i3 system offers three integrated detection modes; luminescence, absorbance, and fluorescence, while its flexible design enables a wide array of assay possibilities. The patented user-exchangeable cartridge design expands the system's detection capabilities with cartridges like the recently launched ScanLater™ Western Blot Detection System, which enables protein analysis on a plate reader. 

The SpectraMax i3 platform with MiniMax 300 Imaging Cytometer and ScanLater Western Blot System are all managed through SoftMax® Pro Data Acquisition and Analysis Software, recognized industry-wide for its ease of use. With simple to set-up plate reader prompts and pre-defined analysis features, results are realized and analyzed quickly. The SpectraMax i3 System is also available for use in GMP and GLP labs when used with SoftMax® Pro 6 GxP Microplate Data Compliance Software. The highly sensitive instrument accommodates the budget and throughput needs of both small and large laboratories alike. Combining cellular imaging with microplate-based applications offers new ways for scientists to compress their workflows and increase efficiency. 

Also on show will be the AquaMax® 4000, the 4-in-1 self-contained microplate washer system. The AquaMax® 4000 is one of a series of microplate washers. The unique modular design of this washer platform allows researchers to configure the system for their current microplate format and applications, and provides an affordable upgrade path when assay requirements change. The system's 96- and 384-well wash heads are interchangeable to extend the capabilities of the system on a single instrument platform.

The AquaMax system washes the wells of microplate-based biological assays, an integral component of life science research. Primary applications for this instrument include ELISA, immunoassays, and cytotoxicity assays, and many cell-based assays used in high-throughput screening during the drug discovery process. 

The system washes all wells in the microplate simultaneously, resulting in very fast microplate processing unlike conventional washers that sequentially fill wells by strip or quadrant dispensing. On-board, touch-screen programming gives researchers a high degree of control over microplate processing parameters resulting in fast and efficient plate washing. The system's highly efficient washing capability minimizes background interference and maximizes assay sensitivity. A comprehensive cleaning routine prevents clogged dispense head and probes, the primary cause of microplate washer failure. Unlike competitive instruments, AquaMax is completely self-contained and does not require external pumps or computers resulting in significant time and cost saving over conventional wash systems.