MDS Analytical Technologies Announces Availability of MetaMorph® 7.6 Software

MDS Analytical Technologies, a leader in innovative solutions for drug discovery and life sciences research, today announced the availability of MetaMorph® 7.6 software, which features new application modules for three-dimensional motion tracking and micronuclei detection.

The new release of MetaMorph®, which is compatible with MDS Analytical Technologies’ line of cellular imaging products, also incorporates a number of other enhancements, including support for enhanced deconvolution with OptiGrid Structured Illumination Microscopy (SIM), and automated slide handling.

Multidimensional Motion Analysis (Motion Analysis in 3D) will allow users to easily select multiple objects, and track their position and velocity within the sample volume. Current competitive tracking requires users to manually identify the original set of objects for tracking and prevents automated tracking, a feature that is particularly useful with large numbers of similar objects.

“MetaMorph® software is the gold standard in research imaging and analysis,” said Andy Boorn, President of MDS Analytical Technologies. “This latest release was designed to address the changing needs of our imaging and analysis customer base, and exemplify our continued focus on maintaining our leadership position in the market.”

Another enhancement to MetaMorph® 7.6 is the Micronuclei Application Module, a new product that allows users to find, evaluate and quantitate micronuclei in any nucleated cell. This is an improvement over competitive application modules that only allow users to find micronuclei in a multi-nucleated cell. Using additional probes, the new module also enables users to differentiate between mitotic, apoptotic, and necrotic cells.

The OptiGrid SIM is now fully controlled using MetaMorph® software via a USB connection, which allows for simple system integration. The structured illumination process returns a strong signal wherever focus is sharp and a weak signal where focus is soft. A series of optical sections taken through a sample (z-stack) can then be combined to create a haze-free ultra-sharp composite image. Image stacks can also be used to produce 3D reconstructions using post-processing software.
Along with MetaMorph® 7.6, the Ludl Electronic Products slide handling system offers scientists an easily expandable system that provides a complete solution for microscope automation. A single arm functions to pull the slide from the cassette to the stage and then return it with an opposite pushing motion. As the precision XY stage scans the slide, the transfer mechanism is completely clear of any interference with normal microscope function, which helps make the system ideally suited for low-volume repetitive analysis, and review applications.

For more information about MetaMorph® 7.6 software, visit the company article page.