New Multimode Microplate Reader Emphasizes Label-Free Detection Technology

Drug discovery researchers now have the opportunity to upgrade their instrumentation to incorporate a new microplate reader that performs both optical label-free and traditional labeled assays.

This latest generation "EnSpire Multimode Plate Reader” boasts hardware designed by PerkinElmer, Inc. (Waltham, MA, USA) that is coupled with Corning Life Sciences (Corning, NY, USA) label-free "Epic” technology.


The reader's compact benchtop design combines Corning‘s Epic optical label-free technology with a range of classical labeled technologies, including quad monochromator-based absorbance and fluorescence intensity, ultrasensitive luminescence and patented Alpha technology in multiwell plate formats. Typically, Alpha technology kits are bead-based assays, using microparticles coated with either DNA or protein in a format suitable for use with automated reagent handling systems. Each AlphaScreen or AlphaLISA assay contains two bead types: donor beads, and acceptor beads. Binding of molecules captured on the beads leads to an energy transfer from one bead to the other, ultimately producing a luminescent or fluorescent signal.

The instrument can accommodate a portfolio of EnSpire label-free microplates that includes 384-well cellular and biochemical microplates, and 96-well cellular microplates.

These high performance microplates with proprietary coatings for label-free detection enable a wide range of biochemical and cellular assays. Automated liquid handling ensures the accuracy and consistency of results throughout the assay development process, and integrated software allows users to initiate assay development and data analysis more easily and simply.

Dr. Richard M. Eglen, president, bio-discovery at PerkinElmer, Inc., said, "Label-free technology represents a potential game-changer in drug discovery innovation, by offering researchers a universal platform to observe cellular interactions and the effects of possible new drug compounds on cells. This is a major improvement over the use of traditional labeled assay methods alone, which rely on more indirect and time-consuming methods of observation.”

Related Links:
PerkinElmer, Inc.
Corning Life Sciences