Instrumentation solutions for the automation of xMAP® Technology-based multiplex assays
Analyzing a large number of samples or developing a highly multiplexed assay? Consider automating* all or part of your xMAP® workflow.
xMAP Technology provides the flexibility to customize each assay step—for both throughput and multiplexing. Specifically:
- bead coupling
- coupling confirmation
- plate preparation
- incubation
- washing
Ready to automate, but don’t know where to start?
A newly published white paper by Tomasz Zborowski, Senior Field Applications Specialist, provides examples of instrumentation solutions and implementation tips when considering automation with xMAP Technology.
While full automation with a walkaway system is possible, most xMAP users find that a semi-automated protocol is the best solution for them. Key automation considerations include:
- plate format
- speed of liquid handling
- deck capacities
- system and software
- consistency between experiments
- future upgrades
- scalability from partial plate to high-volume assays
- minimizing assay and labor costs
Automation of xMAP Instruments
Liquid handling robots have the advantage of standardized sample treatment and workflow error avoidance, during routine sample manipulations and buffer-preparation. Precise pipetting of reagents, bead mix preparation, dilution series creation, and sample addition guarantee hands free preparation of full 96 or 384 well format plates. Automated devices, such as the KiNEDx™ robot arm (PAA Inc.), Caliper Twister II robot (PAA Inc.) or Orbitor™ RS Microplate Mover (ThermoFisher Scientific), can simplify several steps of the Luminex bead-based assays. These robots are able to move microplates rapidly in and out of the xMAP instrument and between microplate devices, such as liquid handlers, dispensers, or washers located on the laboratory bench. Their extensive vertical reach allows multiple stacked or high density instruments to be loaded in a small footprint, and a bidirectional telescoping arm provides superior reach with unlimited base rotation (360°).
Coupling Microspheres with a Semi-automated Device
Although the coupling protocol typically involves some level of manual work, automation of the bead coupling process can reduce lot-to-lot variation (CV%) and maximize bead recovery. An efficient, semi-automated protocol for bead coupling uses MagPlex® Microspheres on the KingFisher™ Flex instrument by Thermo Scientific. The device features an innovative inverse magnetic separation technique, which eliminates the aspiration and other liquid handling steps that can lead to waste or contamination in the assay.
Download the Automation of xMAP® Technology-Based Multiplex Assays white paper to learn more about:
- Single and Multichannel Liquid Dispensers
- Plate Washing Systems
- Liquid Handling Workstations for Immunoassay
- Nucleic Acid High Throughput Solutions
Want detailed protocols, equipment, and reagent recommendations? Download the 3rd Edition xMAP Cookbook.
Still have questions? Contact Luminex Customer Support.
*Disclaimer: This is for clinical research purposes only.