July 10, 2013

HORIBA Scientific, global leader in SPR Imaging, just announced the launch of OpenPlex, a powerful and flexible research platform for real time analysis of label-free molecular interactions in a multiplex format.

OpenPlex uses Surface Plasmon Resonance imaging (SPRi) to monitor the binding of molecules to an array of receptors immobilized on a sensor chip. It offers all the advantages of a conventional SPR system but allows measurements of up to hundreds of interactions in a single experiment. OpenPlex can give qualitative (Yes/No binding) and quantitative information of the interactions, such as concentration, affinity (K_D), association and dissociation rates (k_on, k_off). Molecular interactions involving proteins, DNA, RNA, oligosaccharides, living cells, polymers or nanoparticles can be characterized and quantified. 

OpenPlex is compatible with MALDI-TOF mass spec analysis, enabling secondary identification of species for “ligand fishing” experiments.”  In situ trypsin digestion MALDI provides protein mass fingerprinting.

OpenPlex is an enhanced redesign of our flexible compact and manual label-free SPRi-Lab+. The new design will facilitate cutting edge research, from nanotechnologies, physical chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical research, and biology.  It has a smaller footprint and integrates the fluidics system into a compact enclosure.

The new configuration also allows for simultaneous fluorescence and electrochemistry experiments to be performed on OpenPlex.  An optical window design allows fluorescence information to be gathered either from the ensemble of experiments or individually with a microscope. An open ‘cuvette’ configuration allows for OpenPlex to monitor electrochemical deposition of material.

“OpenPlex extends the multiplex advantage of our SPRi technology. The flexible architecture featuring different flow cell configurations makes it simple to combine label-free molecular interaction analysis with fluorescence or electrochemistry” said Ishai Nir, Director of Fluorescence for HORIBA Scientific “

OpenPlex is currently available. More information can be found at:  http://www.horiba.com/us/en/application/material-property-characterization/water-analysis/details/openplex-flexible-surface-plasmon-resonance-imaging-system-74/