Microarray Reader

Microarray Reader – Microarray Imager vs Microarray Scanner

Microarray scanner and microarray imager are terms often used interchangeably to refer to the same type of instrument, but they can also carry slightly different connotations depending on the context. Generally, both array reader and array imager terms refer to instruments designed to capture and analyze the signals emitted from microarrays. However, there might be nuances in their usage:

Microarray Scanner: This term is commonly used to describe instruments that are specifically designed to scan microarrays and capture the fluorescent signals from the labeled samples on the microarray surface. Microarray scanners usually consist of a scanning mechanism that moves a laser or other light source across the microarray slide, while detectors capture the emitted fluorescence. The term “scanner” reflects the process of moving across the microarray slide to scan the entire surface systematically. A microarray scan is intrinsically slower than an image, but may yield higher resolution.

Microarray Imager: This term, or microarray reader, is often used to describe instruments that capture and analyze images of the microarrays. The term “imager” emphasizes the capturing of images in a single event, rather than just scanning, suggesting a more comprehensive process that involves both capturing and processing image data.

axiREADER

The axiREADER is a microarray imager (microarray reader). It is equipped with specific optics that can detect and quantify the signals generated on a microarray slide or microarray in a well. These signals are typically produced by labeled DNA, RNA, or protein samples that have been hybridized to specific probes on the microarray surface. The imager captures the emitted fluorescence or color intensity and converts it into digital data that can be processed and analyzed using software.

The imager’s performance, such as sensitivity, resolution, and dynamic range, is crucial for obtaining accurate and reliable data from microarray experiments. The axiREADERs have a resolution of 6 um/pixel. They are thus suitable for the analysis of microarrays where spot sizes are 80 um or greater.

Colorimetric vs Fluorometric

Performing multiplex tests and microarrays experiments require a detection step, usually with Microarray imagers. Two of the most commonly used detection modalities for microarrays are colorimetric and fluorometric. The axiREADER microarray reader is available as colorimetric or fluorescence versions. A combo unit, with both capabilities, is also available. The compact and portable instruments can image microarrays from microtiter plate wells or from slides.

The software uses artificial intelligence for the best in automated spot finding, and quantitative data analysis. Many powerful features are built-in to allow complex data analyses. It can use data from plate level wells, in addition to intra-well arrays values, to perform calculations. For example, your test may include standard calibration curves with the target analyte varying concentrations in each well. This is standard good assay design practice and the axiREADERS can fully accommodate the data set.