Molecular Devices and Cytena Collaborate on Single-Cell Printer

On Sep. 19, 2017, Molecular Devices, a provider of high-performance bioanalytical measurement systems, software, and consumables, formed a partnership with Cytena, a start-up life sciences company focused on single-cell technologies, to launch the CloneSelect Single-Cell Printer (SCP) in North America. This system utilizes sophisticated microfluidics-based technology and real-time image analysis to isolate single cells and provide visual documentation of monoclonality for use in cell line development.

Traditional methods for single-cell sorting in cell line development have drawbacks, including low-sorting efficiencies, low cell viabilities, and limited evidence of monoclonality. The CloneSelect SCP overcomes these limitations by screening for both single cells and for cell morphology immediately prior to depositing the cells, ensuring high cell viability. The use of sterilized, disposable cartridges also ensures the prevention of any cross-contamination or need for in-situ sterilization. During deposition, images of single cells are provided, ensuring visual confirmation of monoclonality.

Clonal cell-line development has been receiving increasing focus and investment as a method for producing targeted therapeutics, according to Molecular Devices. As a part of the development process, cells producing high amounts of the antibody of interest need to be selectively isolated to move them forward for additional screening. The CloneSelect SCP accelerates antibody discovery by allowing for automated isolation of single cells into standard 96- and 384- well plates for a wide range of cell types.

“We are very excited about this product and how it allows us to expand our toolset in the fast-growing biotherapeutics market,” said Greg Milosevich, president at Molecular Devices, in a company press release. “Our customers have been seeking ways to bring biologics and biosimilars to market more quickly, and we continue to invest in technologies that accelerate time-consuming process steps.”

Source: Molecular Devices