Beckman Coulter launches first modular spectral flow cytometry solution
Beckman Coulter Life Sciences has introduced the CytoFLEX mosaic Spectral Detection Module, the industry’s first modular approach to spectral flow cytometry. This innovative technology, compatible with existing CytoFLEX LX and S Flow Cytometers, delivers superior fluorescence sensitivity with up to 88 detection channels and can detect nanoparticles as small as 80 nm.
Advancing spectral analysis capabilities
The new module represents a significant advance in flow cytometry technology. Unlike conventional systems that measure only the peak emission of fluorophores, spectral flow cytometry captures the full emission spectrum across all lasers. This comprehensive approach provides researchers with richer data to untangle complex biological systems and disease mechanisms.
“As a central feature of the CytoFLEX platform, this innovation is focused on pairing ease-of-use with powerful, sensitive acquisition technology to remove the intimidation encountered in many flow cytometry instruments,” said Product Manager Matthew Goff. “Investigators can now easily switch between their true conventional detection system and this advanced spectral detection system, while maintaining a familiar sample management and user experience, all without having to invest in a separate instrument.”
User-friendly software integration
The CytoFLEX mosaic’s accessibility is enhanced by its intuitive CytExpert software, which reduces training requirements and accelerates adoption of spectral technology. The system offers two unmixing algorithms and up to 10 autofluorescence channels, with unmixing accuracy checks to ensure efficiency.
“I found the software very easy to learn and was able to start my first experiments in only a few hours,” said Tamar Tak, Coordinator of the Flow Cytometry Facility at Leiden University Medical Center. “A feature I really like is that it allows me to do an extensive QC of the unmixing. You get a plot with all the normalized spectra of your fluorochromes and a table with similarity indices.”
Complete workflow solution
The spectral module includes comprehensive tools for the entire spectral workflow, providing access to the FluoroFinder panel builder and a Cytobank premium licence. These resources support researchers through all stages from sample preparation to complex data analysis. The technology’s flexibility is particularly valuable for diverse research applications. Tak noted: “The autofluorescence settings are another highlight, allowing flexibility depending on your samples – from human tissue to complex samples of microorganisms.”
Availability and regulatory status
The new spectral module is now available globally in two configurations: CytoFLEX mosaic 88 for CytoFLEX LX Flow Cytometer and CytoFLEX mosaic 63 for 4-laser CytoFLEX S Flow Cytometer. The system is designated for research use only and is not intended for diagnostic procedures.
For more information, visit: www.beckman.com
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