M2-Automation is focused on ultra-low volume dispensing instruments. Various instrument
configurations and micro-dispensing devices are available to provide the perfect platform for
applications including :
DNA/protein/cell micro-arrays, MALDI-MS sample preparation and target spotting, Diagnostic
biomarker assays on multiple substrates (slide, MTP, membrane), Diagnostic biochips,
Biosensors, Lab-on-chip systems, Analytical approaches micro-cavities, Capillary tubes,
Microchips, Micro-fluidic devices and many more.
instrument301 - Array Processor
Instrument301 is an automation solution for slide processing (3 x 1 inch; 75 x 25 mm) including
washing and downstream incubation, e.g. with a secondary antibody. Each unit can process
1-4 slides and 2, 3, 4 or more units can be connected to extend the processing capacity.
The Immune Proteomics group of the Medizinisches Proteom-Center of the Ruhr-University
Bochum, Germany uses 5 instrument301 to process up to 20 Human ProtoArrays® V 5.0
(Life Technologies, USA) or self-made protein microarrays in one run. In these experiments
human sera are screened for disease specific autoantibodies, which are detected
by a secondary, fluorescently labeled antibody.
All units are PC controlled and include a three channel on demand non-contact liquid supply,
a liquid removal, Peltier driven cooling, orbital shaking as well as tilting of the slide tray to
enable quantitative removal of the liquid past each processing step. A typical experiment
includes slide blocking, a brief wash, serum incubation, 5 washes, incubation with the
secondary antibody followed by another 5 washes. Incubation times, volumes and
temperatures can be individually set within the instrument control software. An intuitive
graphical user interface allows setting up a complete new method or modifying an existing
run by a few simple mouse clicks. Smart wizards and automation scripts take care of washing,
cleaning and disinfection of all components.
