Tecan makes automated cell culture easier
Flipper module, which has been designed to fit onto the company's
Freedom EVO liquid handling workstations.
It's another piece of kit for the life sciences group, who have added another product to promote automated cell culture to their range.
Many successful implementations of automated cell culture in drug discovery have focused on automation of well-characterised cell lines. This has been because of the likelihood of an improved quality of output, healthier, consistent cells and improved assay data.
Tecan's module handles tissue cultures in microplate-sized, automation friendly cell culture flasks, which have been introduced by recognised consumable manufacturers, including the RoboFlask vessel by Corning Life Sciences.
The module eliminates manually tedious cell culturing processes by automating the harvest, passage, splitting and seeding of adherent cell cultures.
The Flask Flipper module assists the cell harvesting process by shaking, knocking cells off flask surfaces and holding flasks in the upright position for liquid addition or removal.
The Freedom EVO series itself offers liquid handling platforms and flexible robotic workstations for a range of life science applications.
The Freedom EVO platform delivers flexibility and possibilities for expansion according to future needs. Powered by new software, Freedom EVOware, each system is equipped to automate genomic, proteomic, drug discovery, and other life science applications.
Tecan offers the Freedom EVO platform in four different base sizes (75, 100, 150 and 200 cm).
Each platform can be combined with a wide choice of robotic arms, liquid handling tools and application options powered by a straightforward software to meet individual needs, so now all laboratory personnel have access to a platform that will advance with their application needs.
According to market researchers, Front Line Strategic Market, the worldwide cellular assays market is projected to grow by more than 50 per cent to $700m (€537m) over the next five years. Currently, the US accounts for the lion's share of the market, at around 52 per cent of the total, with Europe following behind with 30 per cent and Japan in third with 15 per cent.
