Labcyte Inc. Introduces New Automated Systems for MALDI Imaging Mass Spectrometry and Liquid Handling

Labcyte Inc., the world leader in acoustic droplet ejection and ultra-low volume liquid handling introduces two new products: The Portrait™ 630 reagent multi-spotter provides automated precision matrix deposition for MALDI imaging mass spectrometry.

The Echo^® POD integrates the Echo 500 series liquid handler into a fully automated plate preparation platform. Both of these systems incorporate acoustic droplet ejection (ADE), a highly precise technology that uses sound energy to transfer ultra-low volumes of fluids. Nothing ever touches the compounds or reagents, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination. ADE uses no tips or nozzles so there is no clogging, even with crystallizing agents or proteins.

We introduce the Portrait 630 reagent multi-spotter, bringing automated reagent deposition to the new field of MALDI tissue imaging mass spectrometry. Imaging mass spectrometry links the power of mass spectrometry and molecular histology for protein profiling, small molecule tracking, and other applications. Multi-step protocols, precise drop-on-drop positioning and flexible droplet timing automate sequential experiments such as proteolytic digests followed by matrix deposition. The Portrait 630 system enables users to optimize reaction conditions and crystal formation for more reproducible and higher quality mass spectra.

We also introduce a new addition to our award-winning Echo liquid handling portfolio. The Echo POD enhances the performance of an Echo liquid handler by incorporating a robotic plate handler, bulk filler, plate stackers, scheduling software and other components into a single integrated system. The POD prepares more than 660,000 wells in replicated plates or more than 115,000 wells per day for primary and secondary screening, including dose-response experiments. Truly non-contact liquid transfer minimizes false results due to cross-contamination, accumulated error or sample precipitation while it eliminates the cost of pipette tips and wash procedures.