The IRIS 2’s flexibility is evident in its ability to handle ELISpot, FluoroSpot (up to four colors), and FociSpot assays. Its precise spot counting capabilities are enhanced by the fixed focus and self-calibrating XY table, which streamline the workflow and minimize user intervention. The intuitive software provides a smooth user experience, with customizable presets for recurring experiments, ensuring that the system is ready for automated plate loading and high-throughput applications.

Designed for a streamlined workflow, the IRIS 2 is pre-calibrated for ease of use. Users simply need to insert the plate, select the assay type, and press “read.” The system records the entire signal from every spot, allowing for post-reading adjustments without the need to re-read the plate. Mabtech Apex™ software further enhances efficiency with its intuitive layout features and automatic data export, speeding up the transition from data acquisition to analysis.

At the heart of the IRIS 2’s precision is the RAWspot™ algorithm, optimized for detecting the exact location of the spot center. This accuracy is crucial for identifying cells that secrete multiple analytes in FluoroSpot assays. The IRIS 2 also introduces a new dimension of spot data—relative spot volume (RSV)—by extracting a 3-dimensional volume for each spot, corresponding to the amount of secreted analyte. This detailed analysis capability is essential for researchers seeking deeper insights into their data.

One of the often overlooked yet time-consuming aspects of ELISpot assays is the data analysis process. The Mabtech ASTOR 2 addresses this issue by offering pre-calibrated settings and efficient analysis tools, significantly reducing the time from data acquisition to a completed analysis. The streamlined workflow allows users to focus on their research without being bogged down by lengthy and complex data processing steps. By minimizing the time required for analysis, Mabtech ASTOR 2 enhances productivity and ensures that results are delivered quickly and accurately, making it an invaluable tool in any laboratory setting.

Precise Spot Counting

At the heart of Mabtech ASTOR 2’s functionality is its advanced software, powered by the patented RAWspot™ technology. This technology is designed to accurately pinpoint the center of each spot, ensuring precise spot counting. The accuracy of this technology can be observed in its linear counting capability, especially when correlated with cell dilution. Mabtech ASTOR 2 provides linear spot counting even with more than 3,000 spots per well, ensuring reliable data processing across a wide range of experimental setups, including positive controls. This level of precision is crucial for researchers who require consistent and dependable results in their ELISpot assays.

Read Now, Analyze Later

Mabtech ASTOR 2 offers flexibility in data management by allowing users to select default settings for quick data acquisition. This feature enables researchers to capture data efficiently and then apply preferred spot size, plate layout, and image settings afterward without altering the original data. This capability is particularly beneficial for laboratories that need to meet stringent regulatory requirements, such as those outlined in CFR21 part 11, which pertains to FDA guidelines on electronic records in clinical investigations. With Mabtech ASTOR 2, researchers can rest assured that their data is not only accurate but also compliant with industry standards.

Ready for Automation

The design of Mabtech ASTOR 2 takes into account the growing need for automation in laboratories, especially for larger projects. In addition to its self-calibration features and responsive software, the ASTOR 2 supports robotic plate loading, making it an ideal candidate for integration into automated workflows. Whether used with a robotic arm or as part of a larger automated system, the ASTOR 2 is versatile enough to fit seamlessly into various setups. Mabtech offers support throughout the automation process, ensuring that each solution is tailored to meet the specific needs of the laboratory.

Performance Qualification

Reliability and accuracy are paramount when it comes to laboratory equipment, and Mabtech ASTOR 2 is no exception. To ensure that the reader maintains its performance over time, especially under regulatory scrutiny, Mabtech offers a Performance Qualification (PQ) plate. This plate allows users to conduct both quantitative and qualitative tests, verifying that the instrument continues to meet quality specifications. By regularly using PQ plates, laboratories can confidently validate the performance of their ASTOR 2 readers, ensuring that their experiments yield consistent and reliable results. This level of quality control provides peace of mind, knowing that the data produced is both accurate and reproducible.