High-Content Screening with AgileOptix Technology
Powerful solid-state lasers, water immersion objectives, scientific CMOS sensor, and dual spinning disk with five different disk geometries
What is high-content screening (HCS)?
High-content screening (HCS) encompasses high-content imaging (HCI), and high-content analysis (HCA), although all three terms are often used interchangeably. HCS is the umbrella term referring to the entire process of screening based on multiple parameters or assay readouts including phenotypic-based, high-content imaging assays.
Historically, high-content imaging and high throughput screening have been considered as two separate approaches. High-content imaging enables assay readouts at cellular or sub-cellular resolution, generating large, multivariate data sets. However, due to their complexity, high content imaging assays were limited in throughput and typically used in screenings of smaller, more focused libraries or in secondary screens.
High throughput screening, on the other hand, has the ability to screen larger amounts of compounds (or libraries). A screen is typically target based – the assay is designed around the specific molecular target or genetic perturbation.
The technological advancements in automated microscopes (robust auto-focusing methods, standard high-density imaging compatible plates) and improvements in image and data analysis software now enable high content screening at scale. Advances in lab automation, the availability of readily commercial integrating and scheduling software, and automation-compatible lab instruments are pushing the boundaries of high throughput screening.
AgileOptix HCS Technology for high-throughput, high-content screening for complex 3D biology
The ImageXpress® HCS.ai system systems feature the revolutionary AgileOptix® Spinning Disk Technology for high-content screening (HCS) that enables simple, user-defined configurations to ensure maximum assay performance for both confocal and widefield imaging. Multiple confocal geometries are available including pinhole and slit confocal imaging—the only commercially available high-content imaging system with this option.
AgileOptix HCS technology makes it possible for the system to deliver the sensitivity and throughput needed for demanding applications by combining an advanced solid-state light engine, proprietary spinning disk technology, state-of-the-art optics, and a scientific CMOS sensor. The system acquires a >3 log dynamic range and captures publication-quality images while its large optical field of view maximizes collection of statistically-relevant data.
Increase imaging efficiency using our intelligent, QuickID Targeted Acquisition performed by the MetaXpress Acquire Software. For analysis of challenging and complex images, the AI-enabled solutions available in IN Carta™ Image Analysis Software provides a streamlined workflow with powerful deep learning-based segmentation, machine learning-based classification, and 3D volumetric analysis.
Molecular Devices can successfully tailor ImageXpress HCS.ai system to include customized software and hardware with the features described herein, as well as integration of other lab components such as incubators, liquid handlers, and robotics for a fully automated work cell. Check out our new Organoid Innovation Center where we showcase these cutting-edge technologies with novel 3D biology methods to address key challenges of scaling complex 3D biology.
Sales are subject to our Custom Product Purchase Terms available at www.moleculardevices.com/custom-products-purchase-terms.
Featured Blog: Overcome the challenges of high-throughput 3D Imaging
Thanks to recent advances in imaging technologies, we are now able to observe and analyze complex cellular networks in three dimensions. However, 3D imaging is an intricate process with many complexities, from long image scanning times to low resolution and inadequate analysis tools. Learn about the common challenges faced in 3D cell imaging by reading our full-featured blog.
Learn how to overcome the challenges of high-throughput 3D imaging and analysis
Our high-content screening system with AgileOptix technology is a fully-integrated solution that addresses the many challenges associated with high-throughput 3D imaging. From out-of-focus haze or difficult light penetration to analysis bottlenecks and high-content data mining, we have a solution for you.