Direct Optic Bottom Reading

Cell-based microplate assays fulfill an important role in life science and screening labs. Fluorescence calcium signaling (FURA-2, FLUO-3/4/8, Indo, etc.) and transcription assays (beta-lactamase, GeneBLAzer®, etc.) all need sensitive bottom reading to be properly executed. In addition, GFP, luciferase, and CFP/YFP FRET assays all need bottom reading capability to provide the best results.  The image on the right demonstrates the PHERAstar FS direct optic bottom reading using well scanning (15 x 15 matrix in 96 well plates) on CHO cells expresssing a YFP and CFP protein.

 

BMG LABTECH engineered the PHERAstar FS HTS Microplate Reader with the most sophisticated bottom reading optical system of any current microplate reader.

The PHERAstar FS has a true, direct, free air optical path to the bottom of the microplate, eliminating the need for fiber optic bundles or light guides.

The PHERAstar FS uses a series of software controlled, motor-driven mirrors that directly focus the light on the bottom or top of the plate. Unlike conventional microplate readers, the PHERAstar FS  requires no changing or installation of any hardware (dichroics, apertures, filters or mirrors) when switching between top and bottom reading modes. The PHERAstar FS' direct optic bottom reading and dual emission detection allow for unmatched results on Invitrogen's Beta-lactamase assays (BLA), such as LiveBLAzer® and GeneBLAzer®.

 

Unique PHERAstar FS  Features that Enhance Bottom Reading:

• Software controlled mode switching with no user intervention
• Dual Emission detection for FRET based assays - Not found on any other microplate reader
• A 0.1 mm resolution, automatic Z-Height Focusing optical stage that precisely focuses light onto the cell monolayer
• No additional dichroics, mirrors, filters or lens are needed – PHERAstar assay modules are used for top and bottom reading
• Well Scanning allows for high resolution cell layer detection

 

Direct optic bottom reading and well scanning allow for high resolution analysis of GFP tagged HEK293 cells in a 96-well plate for example. To the right you can see a 3D view of one well scan (15 x 15) - Note how HEK cells aggregate to the back center and to the sides of the well (green areas). Replicate statistics (avg, %CV,etc.) can be done over just these points allowing for better quantitative analysis in cell based assays. Direct Optic bottom reading and welll scanning (30 x 30 matrix) provide the PHERAstar FS with an excellent platform for advanced high resolution cell-based ananylsis in 384 well plates.