Thursday 13 January 2011

Rapid set-up and image capture of 1D, 2D and multiplex gels

Syngene, a manufacturer of image analysis solutions, has unveilled its new GeneSys image acquisition software. Developed for use with Syngene’s G:BOX and Dyversity systems, GeneSys ensures scientists can quickly capture excellent images of even complex multiplex gels.

The GeneSys software features large touch-screen buttons which guide users effortlessly through set-up and image capture. Each screen prompts researchers to select, for example, the type of gel or blot they are using and what it is stained with. The software analyses which filters and lighting are available in the G:BOX or Dyversity. Then drawing on its extensive database, which contains manufacture’s recommended conditions for detection of hundreds of commercially available DNA, RNA and protein dyes, GeneSys suggests the optimal combination for imaging. Scientists can then select this via the touch-screen and the GeneSys software instructs the imaging system to automatically set up the filters and lighting and produces either one or a series of perfect gel images.

Scientists wanting simple set-up for multiplex gels can select up to five dyes and the GeneSys software calculates the best possible combination of filters and lighting to ensure that each dye in the multiplex image is accurately detected with minimal cross-over. This saves scientists the time and effort of looking up the recommended conditions to image different coloured dyes simultaneously, which can become complicated as some of the dye’s emission spectra may overlap and means filter and lighting choices have to be alternatives to the manufacturer’s first recommendation.

Laura Sullivan, Syngene’s Divisional Manager stated: “The ever-increasing choice of new DNA and protein dyes is making it impossible for scientists to quickly programme their imaging systems, especially when they are multiplexing. However, making imaging any commercial fluorescent DNA and protein dye easy is an incredibly complex task. This is why we are so excited that after having spent two years on this challenging project, we can now confidently say our incredible new GeneSys software will deliver the simplest set-up and image capture on the market.”

Laura added: “Since the software is based upon a well-researched database of dyes, which is continually being updated, GeneSys software will set the standard of image capture for many years and will guarantee Syngene’s G:BOX and Dyversity become the leading systems for multiplex imaging.”

Syngene