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One of the challenges with multiplexing fluorophores in biological assays is being able to reliably distinguish the signal of one fluorophore from another. The complication of working with fluorophores with significant spectral overlap is exacerbated when using fluorescent filters or fixed bandwidth monochromators, which provide little flexibility in optimizing signal and minimizing background. Variable bandwidth monochromators provide a powerful alternative that enables fine control over the light range by which fluorophores are excited and emitted light is collected, which in turn allows signal to be more reliably deciphered. BioTek offers a fleet of hybrid-plate readers including the Synergy H1, Neo2, and Cytation, which offer the most flexibility when assaying with multiple fluorescent probes.

This webinar provides an overview of BioTek’s Cytation™ Cell Imaging Multi-Mode Reader, which combines automated digital microscopy with conventional multi-mode microplate detection to provide phenotypic cellular information with well-based quantitative data.

Variability in cell culture characteristics negatively impacts downstream applications, contributing to misleading data and poor assay reproducibility. Conventional methods for evaluating cell culturing techniques and assay optimization consist of manual inspection of a small subset of the cell population at random locations and time points—relying on subjective measurements and processes that are difficult to standardize. In this webinar we will describe methods for improving the quality and reproducibility of cell-based assays using automated imaging tools and liquid handling procedures.

In this webinar, we discuss automated methods for conducting and analyzing the colony formation assay using both the colorimetric and fluorescent properties of crystal violet, the well-established dye for this assay. We will cover important considerations for setting up the colony formation assay in multi-well formats, as well as discuss approaches for constructing a quantitative image analysis workflow that reliably identify colonies and extract meaningful results.

This webinar reviews the broad range of research techniques and assay formats employed to develop effective treatments and advance clinical testing. Content covers general virology applications, cellular host response studies, animal models of infection, and therapeutic development.

Just because your kids are out of school, doesn’t mean the learning has to slow down! 4 of BioTek’s Ph.D-trained scientists are teaching weekly science classes complete with experiments and projects you can do at home. Content is targeted for 7-12 year olds, but all are welcome.

The use of three‐dimensional (3D) culture models is rapidly expanding due to their recognition as representing more structurally and physiologically relevant models of in vivo biology. 3D cell culture assays attempt to mimic the cellular microenvironment including in vivo extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. In this webinar we will cover the advantages and limitations of the various culture models, assay formats, and imaging approaches. Attendees should gain knowledge on setting up and optimizing a broad range of 3D assays that are the best fit for their particular application. Topics Covered: 3D culture models, scaffold free vs. hydrogel matrix models, overview of the generation and use of organoids, molecular, biochemical and imaging assay methods.

In this webinar we provide a detailed review of available methods for measuring cell proliferation, with a particular focus on recent assay innovations, including both 2D and 3D formats. This information will assist researchers in selecting the most appropriate and effective system for measuring cell proliferation based on a broad range of factors. Additionally, we cover important considerations for setting up and running cell proliferation assays, including techniques for improving the accuracy and reproducibility of results.

BioTek’s Cytation Cell Imaging Multi-Mode Readers are the most advanced microplate readers on the market, delivering performance, versatility and reliability in a unique, patented design. With the recent release of the Cytation 7 and the available upright microscopy module, we’ve further expanded the range of supported applications. In this webinar we described workflows and tips for optimizing a range of recently developed assays, emphasizing integrated automation for increased efficiency and accurate quantitative analysis.

Cellular behavior is complex and dynamic. While end-point assays provide a single snapshot of this behavior, it is only when live cells are continually monitored that a more complete understanding of this behavior is realized. At issue, however, is the duration of these dynamics which can occur over seconds, as in the case of intracellular calcium signaling; or continuously, such as the proliferation of a population of cells.

Quantification of purified nucleic acids and protein is a preliminary step for a multitude of downstream applications in a wide range of scientific fields of study. Depending on the sample and application, there is a need for a range of methods to best quantify the biomolecule of interest. Here we will discuss the various methods available to accurately and precisely determine a wide range of analyte concentrations typically found during purification. Methods will include the use of micro-volume, microplate and standard one-centimeter path length vessels using a range of detection methods available in microplate readers.

In this webinar we will demonstrate a fully automated cell migration assay using the AutoScratch Wound Making Tool, which provides a convenient and reproducible method for quantifying 2D cellular migration in either 24- or 96-well formats. Additionally, we will present tips and tricks for optimizing scratch assays, including sample preparation, post scratch washing procedures, and techniques for ensuring accurate and meaningful quantitative results.

Zebrafish are a powerful vertebrate model for many avenues of biological research including developmental biology and pathology. Due to their small size and optical clarity they are uniquely amendable to imaging studies. In this webinar we will describe how automated digital microscopy and quantitative image analysis can be applied to zebrafish research focusing on three common areas of study including angiogenesis, toxicology and cell death.

In this webinar, we’ll describe how automated digital microscopy methods and high content image analysis tools frequently used in mammalian cell studies are applied to an array of microbial cell models common to bacteriology, virology, mycology, and mixed cell type co-cultures. Using live and fixed microorganisms, and a variety of stains, fluorescent probes and a label-free technique to demonstrate how downstream qualitative and quantitative data outcomes, such as cell counting and unit volume conversion, metabolic activity, strain differentiation, and morphology characterization, are obtained for each of a group of individual case studies. Our goal is to provide tips and insights that can be broadly applied in microbial imaging applications beyond the examples shown.

Three dimensional (3D) spheroidal cell models have become a mainstay in life science research to provide the most in vivo-like environment. Performing media exchanges and washes with unattached spheroids can be problematic due to the risk of accidental spheroid removal. In this webinar we will introduce the MultiFlo™ FX's new AMX™ Automated Media Exchange Module, a novel automated, peristaltic pump-based tool that allows these procedures to be carried out in a controlled and consistent manner that eliminates spheroid disruption and removal, simplifying long-term 3D experimental procedures.

Nucleic acids are the building blocks of life in all living things, from plants and animals to bacteria and viruses. In research, it’s important to quantify nucleic acids prior to downstream processes like sequencing, restriction enzyme digestions and ligations, PCR and qPCR along with many other applications. Along with determining nucleic acid concentrations, it’s also important to calculate the ratio of nucleic acid to protein to ascertain the purity of the nucleic acid before using the sample in subsequent analyses.

Phenotypic cellular analysis is a critical area of biological research. Numerous applications require quantifying the number of “spots” per cell, including DNA damage, autophagosomes, endosomes, and mitochondria. These evaluations are often done by hand, which is highly subjective and can be tedious. In this webinar we will describe using an automated image based approach for rapid, objective quantification of various assays that use object spot counting analysis including autophagy, mitochondria membrane potential, genotoxicity, and others.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is an antibody-based reaction that allows the detection and quantitation of numerous analytes with the same basic assay process. The reaction uses a solid surface, typically a microplate, to immobilize the analyte. Once immobilized, unwanted materials can be removed by washing and the remaining analyte quantitated. The assay technology uses antibodies in conjunction with enzyme-catalyzed amplification to provide high specificity and high sensitivity. Here we will describe the basic process steps of ELISA, best laboratory practices along with troubleshooting tips for common problems. In addition, some of the devices and instrumentation used with this assay technology will be described.

The use of cells cultured into a three-dimensional (3D) configuration continues to gain acceptance within multiple areas of life science research and drug discovery. Assay procedures commonly performed with two-dimensional (2D) cultured cells are rapidly migrating to 3D because of the reestablishment of cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, and in vivo-like results these cell models afford. Examples include cell migration studies, stem cell differentiation, and toxicity assessments.

Characterizing cell proliferation is a crucial aspect of biological research and therapeutic drug development. Most current cell proliferation assays rely on indirect biochemical metrics that are limited by artifacts or imaging-based endpoint measures. In this webinar, we will describe a continuous live-cell assay for determining cell proliferation profiles using high contrast brightfield imaging. This fully automated method enables long-term quantitative analysis of cell growth using non-invasive methods to directly count cells or assess % confluence.

The science of cell biology relies heavily on microscopy to visualize structure and function of cells. Qualitative assessments can be made with traditional microscopes that rely on oculars to visualize cells and how they behave in homeostasis or under stress. To quantify these processes, it is necessary to digitize images so processing and analysis routines can be employed.

BioTek's Lionheart™ FX Automated Live Cell Imager simplifies live cell imaging by providing a fully integrated solution. While the sample environment is effectively controlled to maintain cell health, all optical components are kept in separate conditions optimal for high resolution microscopy. The Lionheart FX also possesses versatile software allowing the easy creation of time-lapse movies and powerful image analysis enabling quantitative phenotypic assays. These capabilities will be demonstrated in the webinar by several applications including perfusion and wound healing assays.

In this webinar we will demonstrate imaging and analysis procedures using the CometAssay® from Trevigen®. Following staining, automated imaging of each well is performed using the Cytation cell imaging multi-mode reader. Built in Gen5 software, used for analysis and instrument control, then carries out commonly accepted calculations; such as % DNA in the comet tail and tail moment. The combined process can then be used to generate automated, high throughput comet-based genotoxicity data.