BatchReactor

Within the past month, we started using Affymetrix’s ProcartaPlex Multiplex Immunoassay for detecting cytokines and growth factors. Previously, we’ve used ELISA, but I’m surprised that this new method works just as well without taking more time and using significantly less sample (<50 uL). I haven’t found any downside other than it’s not as cheap as running ELISA, but I think using less sample helps to offset the cost slightly.

Strengths: Immunoassays

Needs to improve: Just started working with them, so none so far

I recently started using EMD’s MilliMark for conjugated antibodies. It’s fairly robust and the antibodies are stable so we’ve been able to design a large assay and not worry about compromising results. This has been positive in reducing sample preparation time and minimizing costs. The ease of detection has not decreased either. I highly recommend trying it out!

Strengths: Flow Cytometry Kits and Reagents

Needs to improve: Long Lead Times, Costly

We use Illumina for their ChIP-Seq (Chromatin Immunoprecipitation Sequencing). It’s ability to identify interactions between protein, DNA, and RNA have been helpful in interpreting some regulation events for biological processes. Their indexed samples have also been cost-effective for us as well by cutting down the re-runs we’ve had to perform in the past.

Strengths: Sequencing Technology

Needs to improve: Need to follow up for servicing

I use Promega’s Quantus Fluorometer for DNA and RNA quantification. Unlike most other fluorometers, the Quantus doesn’t require a computer, so I don’t have to hook up the equipment to a computer before viewing results. The best part about Quantus is that it’s actually compatible with other fluorescent assays, not just the Promega line.

Strengths: Molecular Diagnostics, Drug Discovery, Genetic Identity

Needs to improve: Difficult to get servicing if you don’t register the instrument within 90 days of purchase

Bio-Rad offers a wide selection of easy to use cell viability assays for determining the cell health of fixed and unfixed cells via flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments. I normally use their 7-AAD solution, which can be added directly to the samples. It helps to bypass traditional manual weighing, pipetting, and dilution steps when assessing cell health during flow cytometry. It’s cut down the processing time by half.

Strengths: Life Science Research, Flow Cytometry, PCR, Chromatography, PCR

Needs to improve: Pricier for their ready to use items, but it does make my job easier

Our basic chemicals (solvents and acids) are from Fisher Scientific since they are one of the industry leaders, but more importantly, their chemicals are consistent from lot to lot, with VERY LITTLE variation. Additionally, their bioreagents are made on dedicated lines, which is critical for maintaining purity. I haven’t had any issues with my cells when using Fisher Scientific chemicals.

Strengths: Chemicals, General lab supplies: beakers, graduated cylinders, magnetic stir bars;

Needs to improve: Their chemicals can be costly, but they come with all the appropriate certification, labels, and packaging

In the lab, most of our standard equipment are from ThermoFisher Scientific: hot plates, magnetic stirrers, stir bars, water circulators, etc. Almost always the equipment works straight out of the box with no issues. On the rare occasion, considering how much ThermoFisher equipment we have, we do receive equipment that is not functional and it is a bit of a hassle to follow through with the exchange process since they are a large company and tend to move at a glacial pace.

Strengths: Hot Plates, Magnetic Stirrers, Heated Water Circulator, Easy to Order

Needs to improve: Being a large company, they lack the personal touch with issues arise

BC offers one of the best cell counters on the market. In addition to being reliable and accurate, it requires very little maintenance and few issues have arisen. They also provide a great line of centrifuges with the trusted Beckman Coulter support. I would highly recommend their equipment.

Strengths: Cell Counters, Centrifuge, Reliable and Robust, Good Customer Support

Needs to improve: Costly Reagents

Applikon is a company I enjoy working with mainly because they listen to their customers. A few years ago, we were having quality issues with the bioreactors and actually stopped purchasing from them. When they followed up with us to inquire why we stopped purchasing, we told them that we had issues and (surprisingly!) they actually took our feedback into consideration and have since evolved some of their lines. They continued to be understaffed though, so customer support is lacking.

Strengths: Bioreactors, Knowledgeable Staff

Needs to improve: Poorly staffed resulting in poor customer service

Invitrogen offers media and cell culture reagents that are consistent and reliable, but the frequent encounter with backorder makes them frustrating to work with. As a result, I’ve had to plan well ahead and order weeks in advance to ensure that we are stocked.

Strengths: Media, Cell Culture Reagents, Wide Variety, Good Customer Support

Needs to improve: Frequent Backorder on Products, Costly