Molecular Biology

BMG VANTAstar Multi-Mode Plate Reader

The BMG VANTAstar is a versatile multi-mode plate reader designed for high-throughput analysis in life sciences and materials research. It enables quantitative measurements of fluorescence, absorbance, luminescence, and other optical signals from microplate-based assays. With fast read times and sensitive detection, it is ideal for applications including enzyme kinetics, biomolecular interactions, cell viability assays, drug screening, and high-throughput assay development. Its flexibility and precision make it suitable for both research and preclinical testing environments.

Specifications:

• Detection modes: Absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, time-resolved fluorescence (TRF), fluorescence polarization (FP), FRET
• 6–384 well standard plates
• High-sensitivity detection for low-concentration analytes
• Integrated plate heating/cooling for kinetic and enzymatic assays
• Linear and orbital shaking to ensure sample homogeneity
• Atmospheric control: CO₂, O₂, and temperature regulation for live-cell assays
• Two built-in injectors for kinetic studies and automated reagent addition

Request access to BMG Vantastar plate reader on PPMS

Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR

The QuantStudio Absolute Q is a digital PCR platform designed for precise and absolute quantification of nucleic acids without the need for standard curves. It partitions samples into thousands of individual reactions, enabling highly sensitive detection of rare targets and small fold-changes in gene expression. The system is ideal for applications such as rare mutation detection, copy number variation analysis, viral load quantification, and gene expression studies. Its rapid workflow and high accuracy make it suitable for both research and preclinical applications.

Specifications:

• Up to 16 individual samples per run
• Fluorescence-based detection for single- and dual-channel assays
• Absolute quantification without standard curves
• Detects low copy number targets with high sensitivity
• Nanoliter-scale partitions for precise measurement

Request access to Quantstudio Digital PCR on PPMS

iBright FL1500 Imaging System

The iBright FL1500 is a high-performance imaging system designed for sensitive and quantitative detection of proteins, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules. Using both fluorescence and chemiluminescence detection, it enables researchers to visualize and analyze Western blots, nucleic acid gels, and multiplex assays with high clarity. Automated features, such as auto-focus, exposure optimization, and onboard analysis, make it easy to generate reproducible results while reducing user variability. The system is particularly suited for applications in molecular biology, proteomics, and genomics research.

Specifications:

• Detection modes: Chemiluminescence, fluorescence (RGB + 2 NIR channels), and colorimetric imaging
• Wavelength range: Visible to near-infrared (~900 nm)
• Camera: High-resolution CCD (>9 MP) with automated focus and exposure
• Sample capacity: Supports gels, membranes, plates, and other flat samples

Request access to iBright Imaging System on PPMS

NanoDrop™ 8 Microvolume UV-Vis Spectrophotometer

The NanoDrop 8 allows rapid, microvolume quantification of nucleic acids and proteins without the need for cuvettes or dilution. By measuring up to eight samples simultaneously using only 1–2 µL, it provides high-throughput analysis while conserving precious material. Researchers can quickly assess both concentration and purity (A260/A280, A260/A230), making it a valuable tool for genomics, proteomics, molecular biology, and quality control applications.

Specifications:

• Sample throughput: Measures up to 8 samples simultaneously (1–2 µL each)
• Measurement range: 190–850 nm (UV–Vis)
• Concentration range:
  • dsDNA: 2–27,500 ng/µL
  • BSA: 0.06–820 mg/mL
• Pathlengths: Auto-ranging 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm (without dilution)
• Detection limit: 2 ng/µL dsDNA

The Nanodrop is free to use to researchers in the LSRF & no booking is required. 

Contact: sarah.webbkennedy@dcu.ie

Agilent Seahorse XF HS Mini

The Agilent Seahorse XF HS Mini is a real-time cellular metabolism analyser that measures key indicators of energy function in live cells. In an eight-well miniplate format, it simultaneously assesses oxygen consumption and extracellular acidification rates, providing insights into mitochondrial health, glycolysis, and ATP production without labels or destructive sampling. Its high sensitivity makes it ideal for studies with limited cell numbers, such as primary cells, immune cells, or rare samples, and supports research in cell biology, immunology, cancer metabolism, and drug development.

Specifications:

• Assay format: 8-well miniplate for live cell assays
• Metabolic measurements: Oxygen consumption rate (OCR), extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), proton efflux rate (PER), ATP production indicators
• High sensitivity: Requires fewer cells per well for robust metabolic data
• Injection capability: Four independent ports per well for real-time compound additions
• Temperature control: Maintains stable internal assay temperatures ~16–42 °C

Request access to Agilent Seahorse XF HS Mini Analyser