Molecular Devices Announces Next-Generation SpectraMax MiniMax 300 Imaging Cytometer

3 Dec 2013
Emily Marquez-Vega
Publishing / Media

Product news

Molecular Devices®, has announced today the next-generation SpectraMax® MiniMax™ 300 Imaging Cytometer. This MiniMax 300 imaging cytometer enables both cellular visualization and first-of-its-kind stain free cell-based analysis on the field-upgradable SpectraMax® i3 Multi-Mode Microplate Reader. Brightfield and fluorescence based green and red channel cellular image acquisition and analysis is made simple using the SoftMax Pro® software workflow.

Combining cellular imaging with stain-free cell counting and confluency measurements with microplate-based applications, scientists now have more ways to compress their workflows and increase efficiency.

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 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.

Kevin Chance, President of Molecular Devices commented: “The patent-pending StainFree Cell Detection algorithm available on the SpectraMax MiniMax 300 Imaging Cytometer showcases Molecular Devices’ extensive experience in both cellular imaging and image analysis. Adding this unique cellular imaging capability to the SpectraMax i3 microplate reader platform enables scientists to perform non-destructive cell counting and confluency measurements in the same microplate as downstream microplate based assays.”

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Western BlottingWestern blotting equipment is used to transfer and identify specific proteins within a sample, reveal protein modifications, as well as give a semi-quantitative estimation of their concentration. Western blotting equipment includes all apparatus necessary to transfer proteins from gel to membrane and subsequent processing steps. Protein transfer can be performed by electroblotting with wet, semi-dry and dry transfer systems onto nitrocellulose and PVDF membranes. Blocking, washing and labeling of membranes follows, involving buffers, blocking reagents, blotting / incubation trays, labeling reagents, immunoblotting assays, antibodies and conjugates. Automated equipment for these steps is available to accelerate your lab workflow. Finally, detection and imaging of proteins can be conducted using gel documentation and imaging systems. Find the best western blotting equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell Adhesion AssaysCell adhesion assays are used to quantitate attachment and analyze the molecular mechanisms for extracellular matrix adhesion, cell migration and sensitivity to inhibitors. Find the best cell adhesion assay equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell / Tissue CultureCell culture or tissue culture is used to study the biology of cells or tissues and to isolate cellular products in an environment which can be manipulated and well defined. Accurately control your culture environment with bioreactors or culture incubators, bind your cells to a surface or together with an extracellular matrix. Distinguish cell types with differential media or proliferate cells with certain characteristics using selective media. Enrich your media with supplements such as growth factors, sera and vitamins. Find the best cell and tissue culture products, kits and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell Lines Stem Cells and Primary CellsPrimary cell cultures, established cell lines and stem cells are vital for <i>in vitro</i> and <i>ex vivo</i> experimentation. High-quality cells, optimized for your applications, alongside optimized cell substrates, growth medium and supplements, are critical for experimental success. Explore a range of cells suitable for your applications, including isogenic cell lines, competent cells, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cell lines, fungal/bacterial/mammalian cell lines, stem cells and cancer cell lines. Find the best cells for your research in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Microplate Readers / DetectorsMicroplate readers are used to automate the detection and analysis of labeled or label-free components in microplates during assays or live-cell monitoring. Microplate readers are generally distinguished by their mode of detection. Types include absorbance, luminescence, fluorescence intensity, fluorescence polarization, TRF / FRET and multimode microplate readers. Microplate readers deliver a high throughput of samples by reading multiple wells simultaneously, with the 96-well format the most commonly used. As a result, microplate readers are often used in the drug discovery, bioassays, research and pharmaceutical industries for screening applications. Microplate loading can also be automated, with robotic microplate stackers to increase throughput. Find the best microplate readers in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell-Based AssaysCell-based assays are used to monitor the presence, quantity and activities of a desired cellular analyte including drug molecules or biomarkers. This can reveal information on cell health (apoptosis, cytotoxicity, viability and proliferation assays), cell metabolism, cell migration and cell signaling mechanisms. Find the best cell-based assay products, kits and equipment with our peer reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receiving pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell ImagingCell imaging can be achieved using a number of techniques including confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and light sheet microscopy.
Molecular Devices Announces Next-Generation SpectraMax MiniMax 300 Imaging Cytometer