Cambridge-based Sphere Fluidics has introduced a new high-sensitivity assay designed for single-cell detection of Fc fusion proteins, potentially accelerating the development of this important class of biologic therapeutics. The technology leverages microfluidic capabilities to enable rapid screening of therapeutic protein-producing cell lines.

The Cyto-Cellect Fc Fusion assay employs fluorescent detection methodology within picodroplets to identify and isolate individual cells secreting Fc fusion proteins. This approach enables researchers to analyse millions of cells rapidly, whilst maintaining high sensitivity and specificity. The system is fully compatible with both the company’s original Cyto-Mine platform and their latest Cyto-Mine Chroma system.

Integration with existing workflows

The technology builds upon Sphere Fluidics’ established microfluidic picodroplet expertise, combining single-cell dispensing, sorting, imaging and clone verification in one automated benchtop unit. This integration streamlines the traditionally labour-intensive process of cell line development and verification.

Novel competition assay development

Particularly noteworthy is the implementation of FRET (Förster Resonance Energy Transfer) technology in a droplet-based format, representing the company’s first competition assay.

According to Maryam Ahmadi, Director of Science at Sphere Fluidics: “This project has provided valuable insights and opportunities for assay development. We look forward to expanding our offerings with future kits to enable the detection of a wider variety of secreted molecules using the Cyto-Mine.”

Richard Hammond, Chief Technology Officer at Sphere Fluidics, emphasised the strategic importance of the development: “The ability to support Fc Fusion programs with an optimised assay for our Cyto-Mine platforms is an exciting step for Sphere Fluidics. It is the latest product of an ongoing initiative to rapidly expand our menu of assay kits, enabling our customers to utilise Cyto-Mine across a wide range of Cell Line Development and Antibody Discovery projects.”

The assay is now commercially available and compatible with both generations of the company’s Cyto-Mine platforms.

For more information, visit: spherefluidics.com