BMG LABTECH News

October 18, 2012
The Microplate Reader Durable Enough to Withstand Changes in Gravity
Studying the physiological effects of gravity fluctuations on plants, researchers at the University of Tuebingen in Germany use BMG LABTECHs POLARstar microplate reader in parabolic flights. It is known that light and gravity are the two most important factors in helping plants determine where top and bottom are. It is easy to eliminate light to see what effect it has on plants, but trying to investigate changes in gravity prove a little more difficult. By measuring calcium and hydrogen peroxide in plant cells with the durable POLARstar microplate reader, researchers show the effects of gravity on plants during consecutive parabolic flights.

During a parabolic flight, different stages of gravitation are obtained ranging from hypergravity (about 1.8 g) to microgravity (about 10-3 g). In one flight, 31 consecutive parabolas are flown. Novespace, a company from France has been performing these flights for over ten years. Normal gravity is designated as 1g and on the ascent of the parabola the gravity goes to about 1.8 g (80% higher than normal). Then on the descent of the parabola when the experiments are performed, the period of microgravity lasts for about 22 seconds.

To investigate the signaling pathway from the stimulus (no gravity) to the response (e.g. activation or deactivation of the expression of certain genes) the level of two important second messengers, Ca2+ and hydrogen peroxide, were monitored. Two transgenic cell lines derived from Arabidopsis thaliana expressing either Cameleon (a calcium sensor) or HyPer (an H2O2 sensor) were used as well as a wild type. The calcium and hydrogen peroxide measurements were performed on a fixed POLARstar OPTIMA in kinetic mode during the whole time of the parabolic flight.

Results show that the calcium levels increased with microgravity and decreased afterwards, signifying an effect on calcium flux due to changes in gravity. Further parabolic flights with the POLARstar OPTIMA and with a new PHERAstar FS are in preparation. Some of the results can be found online (http://www.bmglabtech.com/customer-focus/parabolic-flights.cfm). Corresponding experiments were also recently performed at higher gravity levels with the robust POLARstar microplate reader. Using the Hyper-g centrifuge at ZARM (The Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity) in Bremen Germany, the entire unit has been routinely centrifuged up to 10g, further demonstrating the robustness of the instrumentation.

The POLARstar microplate reader from BMG LABTECH is a multimode plate reader that can measure fluorescence, luminescence, absorbance, and fluorescence polarization. Its robust steel housing and perfectly engineered machinery allow it to perform even under extreme conditions such as high and low levels of gravity.

These experiments were financed by a grant from the Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR; 50WB0723). For more information about the Tuebingen research group please have a look here:
http://www.bbp.uni-tuebingen.de/index.php5?object=Content.ResearchTopics.GravitationBiology.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

July 18, 2012
Label-Free SoPRano™ Assays Benefit from Microplate Readers with CCD Spectrometer Technology
The SoPRano™ label-free assay platform from PharmaDiagnostics has been certified to work on all BMG LABTECH microplate readers that have a CCD spectrometer. With this label-free assay platform, IC/EC50s and Kds can be determined for biological interactions such as protein-protein or antibody-antigen. Based upon well-known Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) technology that has previously only been found in expensive dedicated biosensing equipment, the SoPRano™ label-free technology uses Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) active Gold Nano Rods (GNRs) that can detect the binding of molecules to the GNR surface in a concentration dependent manner.
A key feature to the SoPRano™ label-free assay is that an absorbance microplate reader can be used to measure the change in the LSPR signal upon binding, which manifests as a red-shift in the maximum absorbance wavelength (lmax). The specific spectral change upon ligand interaction depends upon the nature of the interactants. These specific changes provide both qualitative and quantitative information, therefore, full spectrum, far-red measurements (600-1000 nm) are necessary to fully analyze the SoPRano™ label-free assay. Since the whole absorbance spectrum red-shifts when molecules bind to the SoPRano™ GNR surface, a whole spectrum needs to be measured. In less than 1 second per well and at a resolution of 1 nm, our CCD spectrometer microplate readers can instantly capture an entire absorbance spectrum (220-1000 nm). Other microplate readers have to build the spectrum, this can take tens of seconds (or even minutes) and it is usually at a lower resolution. This makes BMG LABTECH s CCD spectrometer microplate readers perfect for the SoPRano™ label-free assay, says Dr. E.J. Dell, BMG LABTECH s International Marketing Director.
BMG LABTECH has also added a feature to its MARS Data Analysis software that allows for the SoPRano™ ratiometric data analysis to be done quickly and efficiently. After performing these ratiometric calculations, one-site binding curves are plotted and Kds and IC/EC50s are determined. The BMG LABTECH microplate readers that have CCD spectrometers that can perform the SoPRano™ assay include the SPECTROstar Nano, SPECTROstar Omega, FLUOstar Omega, POLARstar Omega, and PHERAstar FS.
The BMG LABTECH spectrometer technology and dedicated MARS SoPRano™ software enhance data quality and ease of use for SoPRano™ users. The combination of the BMG LABTECH readers and SoPRano™ technology now deliver label-free, high quality protein-protein interactions analysis at a cost level an order of magnitude lower than specialist SPR systems, making this valuable technique available to any life science lab, said Julian Abery, VP Business Development at PharmaDiagnostics.
BMG LABTECH is a leading developer and global manufacturer of microplate reader instrumentation with a wide range of measurement methods. Microplate readers are used in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, as well as in academic research establishments, for both basic research analysis and High Throughput Screening. BMG LABTECH focuses solely on microplate readers and offers the most diverse selection of optical detection systems in conjunction with integrated liquid handling equipment.
PharmaDiagnostics develops and supplies assay kits based upon their unique label-free technology platform, SoPRano™, to life science researchers engaged in biomolecular interaction analysis and label-free screening and detection of protein-protein interactions. SoPRano™ is based upon the principle of Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR), a variant of the well-known SPR principle. Unlike all other SPR technology platforms which require a dedicated specialist instrument, SoPRano™ enables label-free screening using only a standard absorbance plate-reader. SoPRano™ uses Gold Nano-Rods (GNR) materials in solution form, which when conjugated to a specific protein, exhibit changes in optical density upon interaction with a protein ligand. For the first time label-free screening can be used in high throughput and without the burden of investing in and supporting an expensive dedicated instrument.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

May 14, 2012
A Valuable New Applications Resource from BMG LABTECH
A perfectly engineered microplate reader is only part of the solution. Knowing how to effectively perform all of the leading applications on that instrument is the final piece of the puzzle. This is why BMG LABTECH has created an application notes binder, which combines all of the current application notes into one resource. The application notes detailed in our Application Notes Binder were all performed on BMG LABTECH's wide range of microplate readers and they outline a variety of experiments, including:
" Protein-protein interactions
" DNA and protein quantification
" ADME and toxicology studies
" Molecular binding assays
" Drug solubility
" Genotyping
" ELISA and EIA
" Cell based assays
" Reporter gene assays
" Receptor-ligand binding
" Second messenger signaling
" Enzyme activity and kinetic assays
To request your copy, visit: http://www.bmglabtech.com/application-notes/request-applications-binder.cfm
With nearly 3,000 application notes, peer-reviewed articles and scientific posters, BMG LABTECHs online searchable applications database offers a plethora of information on how to perform countless applications on our microplate readers.
Visit BMG LABTECHs Online Applications Center to download all of the leading applications: http://www.bmglabtech.com/applications.
BMG LABTECH, bringing the future of microplate reader technology to you today.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

April 27, 2012
Posters and Presentations from Analytica 2012
Like all good things, Analytica 2012 has come and gone. Similarly to previous shows, Analytica 2012 was a great venue for BMG LABTECH, The Microplate Reader Company. Providing one of the most common analytical life science instruments to laboratories, BMG LABTECH was able to showcase its unique technology to many different researchers.
If you missed BMG LABTECH at Analytica 2012, you probably also missed the new and exciting microplate reader technology on display, which includes:
- The only microplate readers with ultra-fast, full spectrum (220-1000 nm) absorbance analysis for chemical or biological samples;
- The only microplate readers with dual gas regulation using an Atmospheric Control Unit (ACU) for cell-based assay assays or for inducing disease states such as hypoxia; and
- The only laser-based light-scattering microplate reader, the NEPHELOstar Plus, which is ideal for determining compound solubility or for bacterial/fungal/cellular growth assays.
BMG LABTECH's unique microplate reader technology was also showcased at a well-attended Biotech Forum presentation by Dr. E.J. Dell. He discussed how to use BMG LABTECH's unique ultra-fast, UV/Vis spectrometer in a microplate reader, highlighting how all absorbance assays such as DNA, RNA, and ELISA can all be improved with this unique technology.
The unique UV-Vis spectrometer technology was further showcased at two posters, one measured the conversion of the cofactor NADH (Detection of NADH and NADPH with the Omega´s High Speed, Full UV/Vis) and the second measured the metallation of tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) with zinc (Ultra-Fast, UV/Vis Spectrum Analysis Optimizes Chemical Reactions on a Microplate Reader). A copy of Dr Dell's presentation, as well as the poster presentations, can be requested at http://www.bmglabtech.com/analytica
If you would like any more information about this or other microplate reader technology, please contact BMG LABTECH. We hope to see you in two years at Analytica 2014.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

April 04, 2012
What's Happening at Analytica 2012 with BMG LABTECH
Visit BMG LABTECH, The Microplate Reader Company, at Booth B1.306 at the Analytica 2012, the international conference for Analysis technology, Laboratory technology and Biotechnology. This year the exhibition areas will include Analysis and Quality Control, Laboratory Equipment, as well as Biotechnology/Life Science/Diagnostics.
BMG LABTECH will be showcasing their new microplate reader technology at this exposition, which includes: ultra-fast, full spectrum (220-1000 nm) absorbance analysis for chemical or biological samples; atmospheric Control Unit (ACU) on a life science microplate reader for optimizing cell-based assay experiments or for inducing disease states such as hypoxia; and Direct Optic Bottom reading on the gold-standard HTS microplate reader for unmatched signal-to-noise ratios in all fluorescent protein assays such as GFP, YFP and mCherry.
BMG LABTECH will also be highlighting their microplate reader technology at various other Analytica events. The FLUOstar Omega will be showcased at the first annual Analytica Live Lab. Here researchers can talk to a BMG LABTECH expert about Food and Water Analysis using a microplate reader. Applications such antioxidant testing (ORAC and ABEL assays), food contamination, and toxin detection will be showcased. On Wednesday, April 18 from 14.30 - 15.00, Dr. E.J. Dell will be presenting a talk on using BMG LABTECH's unique ultra-fast, UV/Vis spectrometer in a microplate reader. Here you can learn how all absorbance assays such as DNA, RNA, and ELISA can be improved with this technology. Or, look for BMG LABTECH's posters which further highlight the use of the unique UV/Vis Spectrometer in applications such as measuring the conversion of the cofactor NADH and determining metallation of tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) with zinc.
As a courtesy, BMG LABTECH is also offering Ten Free promotional vouchers to anyone who is interested in a microplate reader or in attending Analytica 2012. Please submit your information to qualify for the voucher. http://www.bmglabtech.com/analytica


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

March 21, 2012
BMG LABTECH is attending ARABLAB 2012
BMG LABTECH, the Microplate Reader Company, based in Ortenberg, Germany will be exhibiting at ARABLAB 2012 from March 26-29th. Visit Booth #408 to get a personal introduction to the SPECTROstar Nano and the POLARstar Omega microplate readers. The SPECTROstar Nano represents a revolution in ultra-fast, full spectrum absorbance measurements for assays such as ELISA, DNA, RNA, and protein determination. Compatible with microplates, cuvettes, and low volume samples down to 2 µL, the SPECTROstar Nano is ideal for all laboratories seeking the finest absorbance microplate reader. Discover how ultra-fast, full spectrum analysis, which is unique to BMG LABTECH readers, can improve data quality for all types of absorbance assays.
Also featured at ARABLAB 2012, the POLARstar Omega is a multidetection life science microplate reader at an affordable price. The POLARstar Omega offers all detection modes including ultra-fast, full spectrum analysis as well as AlphaScreen®/AlphaLISA®, TR-FRET, and fluorescent polarization. In addition, the POLARstar Omega now has a new accessory, the Atmospheric Control Unit or ACU, which is perfect for all types of cell-based assays. Microprocessor controlled, the ACU maintains the optimal environment for cell-based assays by independently regulating two gases, CO2 and O2.
Besides exhibiting at Booth #408, BMG LABTECH will host an onsite BIOLAB seminar (Thursday, March 29, 16:20) titled Rapid DNA Measurements in Low Volume Samples, which will feature the SPECTROstar Nano and the LVis Plate for low volume measurements for DNA, RNA, or protein.
BMG LABTECH, bringing the future of microplate reader technology to you today.


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

January 26, 2012
BMG LABTECH is a Diamond Sponsor of the First Annual SLAS 2012
The first inaugural SLAS will take place February 6-8th in San Diego, California with BMG LABTECH being a proud diamond sponsor of the event. Stop by booth #921 to see The Microplate Reader Company and to see what is new with microplate reader technology. Amongst the things to see are: the PHERAstar FS, the gold-standard for HTS instruments; the SPECTROstar Nano, the only 1536 absorbance reader that can capture a full UV-Vis spectrum in less than a second per well; and the new Atmospheric Control Unit with dual independent gas intake valves, making the FLUOstar Omega the ultimate cell-based microplate reader.

BMG LABTECH will also host two 50 minute tutorials at SLAS highlighting the PHERAstar FS and its flexibility in cell-based and HTS assays. The Tuesday morning tutorial will be in conjunction with Labcyte detailing a nanoHTS platform in 3456 well plates. Together with Labcytes Echo® liquid dispenser, we now have the ability to go to smaller volumes. The Tuesday afternoon tutorial will demonstrate the flexibility of the PHERAstar FS by showing how it outperforms two competing drug discovery technologies, a charged coupled device (CCD) based microplate reader used for HTS and a flow cytometer used for high content screening (HCS). Visit our SLAS booth, tutorials, or posters to see the future of microplate reader technology today.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

October 11, 2011
The Omega Series with ACU - Complete and individual control of O2 and CO2 in your microplate reader
BMG LABTECH now offers the Atmospheric Control Unit (ACU) - a complete solution for fully regulated independent control of both oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels within your multimode microplate reader. Available for the entire range of Omega microplate readers, the microprocessor controlled ACU offers dual independent control of both gases within the microplate reading chamber. The microprocessor controlled unit can regulate CO2 (0 - 20%) and O2 (1 - 19%) independently, making it unnecessary to change gas cylinders or piped gas supplies to reproduce certain physiological conditions needed for cell-based assays. When used in combination with the Omega's other features such as extended temperature control up to 65°C and shaking (orbital, double orbital and linear), users can reproduce most physiological conditions making cell-based assays more biologically relevant. The Omega series of microplate readers can measure multiple detection modes including Fluorescence Polarization (FP), Fluorescence Intensity, Time-Resolved Fluorescence (TRF), TR-FRET, AlphaTechnologies®, High-Performance Luminescence and UV/Vis spectrometer based absorbance. Applications can be run in a dedicated mode or a combination of all modes to acquire all the data you need in a single experiment. The multimode capabilities, together with the Atmospheric Control Unit , are especially advantageous for a variety of applications including Mammalian Cell Assays, Stem Cell Assays, Hypoxia, Cell Viability, Cell Proliferation, Migration Studies, Invasion Assays, Intracellular pH, Angiogenesis, Ischemia / Reperfusion, and many more. Incorporating the ACU into an Omega microplate reader, extended cell based experiments can now even be performed without user intervention, providing a true walk away assay solution. This makes the BMG LABTECH ACU the most flexible gas control system available in a microplate reader.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

September 26, 2011
BMG LABTECH to showcase Innovative Microplate Reading Solutions at Biotechnica 2011
BMG LABTECH - The Microplate Reader Company - will be exhibiting their innovative microplate reader solutions at the Biotechnica 2011 in Hannover, Germany. Visit our booth D54 in Hall 9 to find out more about our life science and high-throughput screening solutions.
This year, BMG LABTECH will be highlighting the POLARstar Omega with Atmospheric Control Unit (ACU). This multimode microplate reader provides you with the best combination of performance and flexibility for a wide range of applications in basic research, life science studies, and assay development. The POLARstar Omega's microprocessor controlled ACU, allows fully regulated independent control of both O₂ and CO₂ levels within the microplate reader. In combination with the temperature control and unrivalled shaking options, the POLARstar Omega provides a true "walk away" solution for long term cell based assays and much more.
Stop by our booth to speak with application scientists or to find out more about our other innovative microplate readers including:
PHERAstar FS - the Gold Standard HTS microplate reader, with advanced top and bottom reading, onboard reagent injectors for performing fast kinetic assays, Tandem Technology and dedicated lasers for all TR-FRET and AlphaScreen® / AlphaLISA® based measurements
SPECTROstar Nano - UV/Vis absorbance reader capable of reading standard microplates up to 1536 wells (for high throughput determination), low volumes down to 2 µL with the LVis Plate as well as kinetic studies or a quick experiments via the built-in cuvette port.
Since 1989, BMG LABTECH has been committed to developing and producing high quality microplate readers and microplate handling systems. We concentrate solely on microplate reading instrumentation with a wide range of measurement methods for use in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, as well as in academic research establishments, for both basic research analysis and High Throughput Screening. Our exceptional worldwide sales and support network is committed to bringing you innovative microplate reader technology with the reliability and quality that you expect from BMG LABTECH.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

September 16, 2011
Join BMG LABTECH at MipTec 2011
BMG LABTECH - The Microplate Reader Company - will be highlighting their innovative microplate reader solutions, exhibiting scientific posters and presenting a symposium at MipTec 2011 in Basel, Switzerland from September 20th-22nd 2011.

Join BMG LABTECH, DiscoveRx and Labcyte for a technology symposium on September 20th from 1:30 - 5:30 pm. Here you can attend a variety of presentations on the topic of Novel, HTS-ready platforms for GPCR and Kinase Drug Discovery. For more information and to sign up visit the MipTec website at www.miptec.ch

Stop by Booth B25 to find out more about the POLARstar Omega with the unique Atmospheric Control Unit (ACU). The ACU allows fully regulated independent control of O₂ and CO₂ levels within the microplate reader providing optimal environmental conditions for cell based applications and much more. Other features including a UV/Vis Spectrometer, multiple detection modes including TR-FRET and unrivalled shaking and incubation options make this microplate reader the optimal choice for a wide range of applications in basic research, life science studies, and assay development.

At booth B25 you can also speak with application scientists or find out more about our other innovative microplate readers including the PHERAstar FS, the ultimate high-end HTS microplate reader, or the SPECTROstar Nano low-volume absorbance reader for microplates, cuvettes and low-volume (2 µL) samples.

BMG LABTECH will also be presenting a scientific poster, Growth of Campylobacter using BMG LABTECH's FLUOstar Omega equipped with ACU, which has been shortlisted for a poster prize at the conference.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

September 06, 2011
The World of Microplate Reading at your Fingertips!
At BMG LABTECH, our highest goal is to provide our customers with the latest innovations in microplate reader technology and the best service and support possible. In order to better serve our customers, we have recently added social media to our extensive service and support network. This way, we can provide information whenever and wherever you need giving you the opportunity to communicate with us in the manner that best suits your needs.
Innovations in Microplate Reading Blog: Read about our microplate readers, frequently asked questions from our customers, applications information and much more (http://microplate-readers.blogspot.com)
You Tube Channel: Watch videos on the latest innovations in microplate reading technology; find out more about your microplate reader, testimonials and our Video Training Series with helpful tutorials about our plate readers (http://www.youtube.com/bmglabtech)
Twitter @platereaders: Get the latest news and information about products, promotions and more (http://twitter.com/#!/platereaders)
Facebook: Check out our workshops, events, and helpful hints on how to get the most out of your microplate reader (http://www.facebook.com/microplatereaders)
LinkedIn: Find out more about the company and what we have to offer as well as the latest news and events (http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmg-labtech)
Inside Applications Newsletter: A monthly newsletter giving you the latest information regarding applications and which microplate readers best fit your assay needs (http://www.bmglabtech.com/news/inside-applications.cfm)
Mobile Website: A mobile-friendly version of the key features of our website including information on our full range of microplate readers as well as the latest news, application notes, contact information, our video library and much more. (http://www.bmglabtech.com/mobile)
We would like to know what you want to know! Tell us what you think about our readers by commenting on our blog posts, by following us on Twitter or by sending us any questions that you may have about our microplate reading technology, applications or features. For a limited time we are also giving away three $25 gift cards to our followers for their comments, questions and input. Help us to make our social channels better and more informative for everyone. Tweet about us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, comment about us on our Blog or just tell us what you want to know today.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

August 30, 2011
BMG LABTECH to showcase Innovative Microplate Reading Solutions at ELRIG Drug Discovery 2011
BMG LABTECH  The Microplate Reader Company  will be exhibiting their innovative microplate reader solutions at the ELRIG Drug Discovery 2011 in Manchester, UK. Visit our booth K 6 & 7 on September 7th and 8th to find out more about our life science and high-throughput screening solutions.
This year, BMG LABTECH will be highlighting the FLUOstar Omega with Atmospheric Control Unit (ACU). This multimode microplate reader provides you with the best combination of performance and flexibility for a wide range of applications in basic research, life science studies, and assay development. The Atmospheric Control Unit gives fully regulated independent control of O2 and CO2 levels within the microplate reader providing optimal environmental conditions for cell based applications and much more.
Stop by our booth to speak with an applications scientist or to find out more about our other innovative microplate readers including the PHERAstar FS, the ultimate high-end HTS microplate reader, with advanced top and bottom reading, onboard reagent injectors for performing fast kinetic assays, Tandem Technology and dedicated lasers for all TR-FRET and AlphaScreen® / AlphaLISA® based measurements or the SPECTROstar Nano low-volume absorbance reader for microplates, cuvettes and low-volume (2 µL) samples.
BMG LABTECH will also be presenting four scientific posters at this conference:

• Growth of Campylobacter using BMG LABTECHs FLUOstar Omega equipped with ACU


• Cell-based phosphorylated Akt (Ser473) detection using HTRF® technology and the PHERAstar Plus


• An AlphaScreen® SureFire® Phospho-ERK1/2 assay performed on BMG LABTECH's POLARstar Omega


• Monitoring intracellular Ca2+ fluxes with CloneticsTM primary sensors using the LUMIstar Omega

August 01, 2011
Final Winner of a SPECTROstar nano announced.
When treating cancer, it is now common to use the bodys immune system to help fight the cancer. Some people have been shown to produce an immune response to different cancers and research into these immune responses has led to treatments that use antibodies, interleukin, interferon, TNF, etc. Dr. Michael Campa from Dr. Edward Patz, Jr.s laboratory in the Duke University Medical School has proposed to use a new microplate reader from BMG LABTECH to investigate one such mechanism. With the help of the new SPECTROstar Nano, Dr. Campa will explore a mechanism that may help to prevent the spread of lung cancer. He and his co-workers recently found an anti-complement factor H (CFH) autoantibody in lung cancer patients whose cancers have not metastasized. He plans to purify and characterize this autoantibody and to determine its role in lung cancer metastasis. You can read his proposal here Investigating the Antimetastatic Activity of an Autoantibody in Lung Cancer Patients.
Hearing I had won the last SPECTROstar Nano to be given away by BMG LABTECH was a huge surprise, stated Dr. Campa. It is indeed a very generous gift and comes at an ideal time. Our laboratory in the Department of Radiology at Duke University Medical Center focuses on the early detection of lung cancer. Our aging plate reader has been locking up recently and most likely won't last much longer. Many of our in vitro assays and quantifications are totally reliant on this plate reader. The SPECTROstar Nano will not only eliminate worries of instrument failure but will allow us to expand into areas of inquiry not possible before. I would like to express my sincere thanks to BMG LABTECH for this fabulous award. I would also like to thank the BMG LABTECH rep at Duke, Scott Klayner, for being such a great resource and friend for all the years we've been acquainted.
For his idea, Dr. Campa is the fifth and final winner in BMG LABTECHs SPECTROstar Nano contest. We want to thank him, as well as the four previous winners, and everyone who submitted a proposal to the contest. As we received so many outstanding proposals on a wide variety of different research topics, it was very difficult to choose the best proposals as winners. We have also chosen a few proposals that we believe deserve an honorable mention. Visit www.bmglabtech.com/promotion to take a look at all of the proposals from these runners up.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

July 06, 2011
Last Chance to win a SPECTROstar Nano Microplate Reader
There is only one SPECTROstar Nano remaining in BMG LABTECHs absorbance reader competition. BMG LABTECH has already given away four of the five SPECTROstar Nanos for great research proposals throughout the world. They have helped scientists in the United States, UK and Finland to better reach their goals in Beer analysis, the effects of honey on wound healing, nanoparticle research and have given a university the ability to pursue new and innovative research and teaching approaches by giving their students access to state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation.
The SPECTROstar Nano is the next evolution in absorbance reader technology. Its proprietary ultra-fast UV-Vis spectrometer instantaneously captures a full spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volumes samples. It will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase, while expanding your laboratorys capability with different sample formats.
Dont miss your last chance to win and submit your proposal before July 15th to be considered for the remaining instrument. If you have a novel idea on how the SPECTROstar Nano could redefine your lab, simply write a short 2-4 page proposal on how your lab would use this new and unique instrument. Its proprietary ultra-fast spectrometer instantaneously captures a full UV-Vis spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volume samples.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

July 06, 2011
Microplate Reader Information in Swedish now available
BMG LABTECH is proud to announce that information on our microplate readers can now be found in the Swedish language on the website. Customers can access these pages by clicking on the Swedish flag along the top of the website as well as by following the link below.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

June 29, 2011
A Big Win for Nanoprticles: Fourth Microplate Reader awarded to Univ. of Helsinki!
A big win for small particles: A SPECTROstar Nano awarded to the University of Helsinki for Nanoparticle research.

BMG LABTECH is proud to announce that the fourth SPECTROstar Nano will be going to Finland to aid in developing a discovery platform for pharmaceutical nanoparticles at the University of Helsinki. The discovery platform for pharmaceutical nanoparticles relies on an unconventional combination of modern methods. It will open important new horizons and it is expected to fundamentally renew the field of drug delivery.

Dr. Marco Casteleijn further explains: Specific experiments could benefit greatly by the use to the SPECTROstar Nano due to its fast reading times, robotic interface mode, low volume measurements, plate reading capabilities, shaking and incubating capabilities, and full spectrum readout. In addition, gas vent for atmospheric control could be useful for other applications in the future, in case of automated growth and control of mammalian cell lines. In addition, model drug concentrations such as calcein, small lipophilic molecules (e.g. rhodamine B), siRNA and pDNA can be evaluated by the SPECTROstar Nano (i.e. full spectrum, small volumes of 2 µL) during the formulation process. 

To read his unique proposal visit http://www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/fourth-winner.cfm


BMG LABTECH will be awarding the last of five SPECTROstar Nanos on July 30, 2011. Just submit a short 2-4 page proposal explaining how your lab would benefit from this new and innovative absorbance microplate, cuvette and low-volume readers before the final deadline, July 15, 2011. If you would like to be the final winner, tell BMG LABTECH how you propose to use the SPECTROstar Nano in a unique fashion or proposing to use one of the instruments many unique features such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536-well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetics, BMG LATECHs low volume LVis Plate, or robotic interface mode.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

June 06, 2011
BMG LABTECH announces mobile microplate reader website
BMG LABTECH, the Microplate Reader Company, launched a mobile-device optimized website today which was developed specifically for users of smartphones (such as the iPhone, Android and Blackberry) as well as other wireless devices. BMG LABTECH's mobile website is designed with a similar look and feel as www.bmglabtech.com but with the needs of these new wireless devices in mind; the pages are built for a smaller screen and upload faster due to optimized images and other features and are thus more convenient for users accessing the website via a smartphone.
It is now possible to access a mobile-friendly version of the key features of www.bmglabtech.com including information on BMG LABTECH's full range of multimode and dedicated microplate readers as well as the latest news, application notes, contact information and much more. Additionally, users will be able to view an optimized version of the extensive Video Library including numerous instructional videos right from their smartphone whenever and wherever they would like.
BMG LABTECH has also developed various QR Codes that make it easier and faster to find the information you are looking for. These QR codes need only to be scanned or photographed with a Smartphone equipped with a QR reader and the user is automatically directed to the information that they need.
To access this new website via your smartphone, visit http://www.bmglabtech.com/mobile.
About BMG LABTECH-
Since our establishment in Offenburg Germany in 1989, BMG LABTECH has been committed to developing and producing high quality microplate readers and microplate handling systems. BMG LABTECH is globally active as a leading developer and manufacturer of microplate reader instrumentation with a wide range of measurement methods. BMG LABTECH focuses solely on microplate readers and offers the most diverse selection of optical detection systems in conjunction with integrated liquid handling equipment.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

May 31, 2011
Winner of third SPECTROstar Microplate Reader - Rose Cooper from UK
Honey - A Novel Application for an Ancient Remedy helps Rose Cooper win a SPECTROstar Nano from BMG LABTECH


BMG LABTECH are delighted to announce that Professor Rose Cooper and her research group (Aled Roberts, Rowena Jenkins and Sarah Maddocks) from the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff is the third winner of a SPECTROstar Nano UV/Vis microplate and cuvette reader.

Professor Cooper is widely known for her research into the effects of Manuka honey on some of the most stubborn infections encountered in hospitals including MRSA, and her work shows that honey can make MRSA more sensitive to antibiotics such as oxacillin.

Professor Cooper and her group were impressed by the unrivalled capabilities of the SPECTROstar Nano and both its compact size and small footprint.
The group study bacterial growth inhibition, biofilms, proteomics and gene expression, they require a reader offering flexibility, speed and sensitivity that is simple and easy to use. The capability of the SPECTROstar Nano to incubate at 370C with shaking and instantaneously capture a full UV-Vis spectrum to provide either end point or kinetic measurements in both cuvettes or microplates will also enable her group to study the kinetics of bacterial growth inhibition and cell death. The ability of the reader to perform well scanning will also provide more detailed information on the study of biofilm generation measuring RNA and protein.

Overall the use of the SPECTROstar Nano will go a considerable way to helping our entire research group to elucidate the mode of action of honey against pathogenic bacteria and its action in synergy with antibiotics. The multiuser software package also means that everyone in the lab could use the machine and analyse data in a time efficient manner

If you, like Professor Cooper, have a great idea on how the SPECTROstar Nano could redefine absorbance measurements in your lab, submit your entry before the next winner is chosen. Simply write a short 2-4 page proposal explaining how your lab would use this new and innovative absorbance reader.

Its proprietary ultra-fast spectrometer instantaneously captures a full UV-Vis spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volumes samples. Fast, full spectrum measurements will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, Protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase.

The proposals will benefit from using the SPECTROstar Nano in a unique fashion or from proposing to use one of the instrument's many unique features such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536 well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetics, BMG LATECH's low volume LVis Plate, or robotic interface mode.

For more information go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion or ask your local BMG LABTECH representative.


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

May 20, 2011
First free SPECTROstar Nano Absorbance Reader delivered
The First Winner of BMG LABTECH's SPECTROstar Nano is on His Way to Modernizing Beer and Wine Analysis
Last Week Eric Matthews from BMG LABTECH proudly presented the first of five free SPECTROstar Nanos to Dr. Gary Spedding of Brewing and Analytical Services, LLC in Lexington, Kentucky. Dr. Spedding was awarded this unique absorbance reader for his novel proposal on how he would implement new modernized micro-methods to replace archaic assays that are needed to fulfill quality control requirements for the brewing industry.
Dr. Spedding and his lab were thrilled to have their new SPECTROstar Nano installed and were anxious to begin developing new and improved methods for beer analysis. They now have the possibility of applying this cheaper, faster and more accurate method of analysis to a wider range of beverages (including wine, juice, and soft drinks) as well as to processed or raw materials. Dr. Spedding explains, Our laboratory is a firm believer in using spectroscopic techniques in the brewing laboratory, along with ELISA and other microplate approaches such as enzymatic assays. Dr. Spedding believes many current methods can be modernized, that is made faster, scaled down and more accurate Using standard spectroscopic methods and ELISA technology, the SPECTROstar Nano with its incubation and shaking capabilities, its ability to scan across the UV and visible wavelengths, and its ability to reference corrections to our existing assays will benefit our laboratory and limited research efforts enormously.
Some of the analysis methods that Dr. Spedding would like to modernize or supplant include beer or wine color measurement (430 nm), polyphenol concentration (600 nm), flavonoid and tannin concentration (i.e. bitterness) (275 nm), and sulfite concentration (550 nm). But the method he would most like to modernize is the dangerous Kjeldahl assay; it uses boiling acid to measure the protein content in beer and wine. There is already preliminary data to support these modernization methods (Abernathy, et al. (2009); J. Inst Brew. 115 (2): 122-127.) and now there is an instrument to get the rest of the data.
If you, like Dr. Spedding, have a great idea on how the SPECTROstar Nano could redefine absorbance measurements in your lab, submit your entry before the next winner is chosen. Simply write a short 2-4 page proposal explaining how your lab would use this new and innovative absorbance reader. Its proprietary ultra-fast spectrometer instantaneously captures a full UV-Vis spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volumes samples. Fast, full spectrum measurements will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, Protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase.

The proposals will benefit from using the SPECTROstar Nano in a unique fashion or from proposing to use one of the instrument's many unique features such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536 well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetics, BMG LATECH's low volume LVis Plate, or robotic interface mode. For more information go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion or ask your local BMG LABTECH representative.
BMG LABTECH, the microplate reader company, is a leading developer and global manufacturer of microplate measurement and handling systems for basic research and High-Throughput Screening. We focus on microplate readers with a wide variety of optical detection systems in conjunction with integrated liquid handling equipment. BMG LABTECH is committed to bringing you innovative technology with the reliability and quality that you expect from a dedicated microplate reader specialist.
For more information about BMG LABTECH visit: http://www.bmglabtech.com
For more information about BREWING & DISTILLING ANALYTICAL SERVICES, LLC visit: http://www.alcbevtesting.com/



more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

May 02, 2011
Second Winners of Microplate Reader Competition Announced
Rising Stars in the Chemistry/Biochemistry Department at U.T. Arlington are the Second Winners of a SPECTROstar Nano from BMG LABTECH

For young and exuberant scientists it is sometimes hard to accomplish new and exciting research when applying for classic funding sources. Often there may be limited interest in the research subject at that time or proposals are just too risky for funding.

In order to address their need for a new absorbance microplate reader for teaching and in their labs, researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington decided to pull their new and innovative ideas together to apply for BMG LABTECH´s SPECTROstar Nano competition (www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/). Combining their ideas into one proposal helped to mitigate the risk of submitting just one idea and it also helped to show how six different laboratories can use one instrument for a myriad of applications. To find out how they propose to use the SPECTROstar Nano to redefine absorbance measurements at UTA, you can read their winning proposal on our website at www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/second-winner.cfm.

Dr. Kevin Schug, one of the scientists at UTA is thrilled to hear that their proposal was chosen. At the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry in the University of Texas at Arlington, we have a significant number of junior faculty who are pursuing new and innovative research and teaching approaches. The award of a SPECTROstar Nano system gives us many new capabilities, which we previously lacked. Not only will we be able to use the instrument for a wide range of research and teaching efforts, the instrument will provide support for the advancement of our junior faculty in their academic careers, as well as exposure to students of state-of-the-art instrumentation. We are extremely excited about the prospects that this award has afforded, and we appreciate the opportunity given by BMG LABTECH to compete for this instrument.

If you, like the young professors at UTA, have a great idea for the SPECTROstar Nano, submit your entry before the third winner is chosen next month. Simply write a short 2-4 page proposal on how your lab would use this new and unique instrument. Its proprietary ultra-fast spectrometer instantaneously captures a full UV-Vis spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volumes samples. Fast, full spectrum measurements will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, Protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase.

Tell us how you propose to use the SPECTROstar Nano in a unique fashion or one of the instruments many unique features such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536 well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetics, BMG LATECHs low volume LVis Plate, or robotic interface mode. For more information go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/ or ask your local BMG LABTECH representative.

Dont forget to submit your proposal before Mary 15th to qualify to win the third of five SPECTROstar Nanos from BMG LABTECH.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

April 04, 2011
New Application Note: Platelet Aggregation Assays
Platelet aggregation is a gold standard assay of platelet function in the research and clinical laboratory settings which is conventionally measured with aggregometers requiring large volumes of platelet suspensions and only in low throughput format. With the NOVOstar microplate reader from BMG LABTECH we present an alternative optical method to measure platelet aggregation using small volumes in 96-well format.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

March 30, 2011
First Winner of a Free Microplate Reader Announced
BMG LABTECH's First Winner of a SPECTROstar Nano Could Change the Way We Look at Beer

One of the first uses of the microscope by Louis Pasteur was to determine why beer and wine soured; he later hypothesized the Germ Theory of Disease. It's in that same spirit that we congratulate Dr. Gary Spedding for his proposal to use the new SPECTROstar Nano to modernize beer and wine analysis.

Dr. Gary Spedding is the managing owner of the Brewing and Distilling Analytical Services in Lexington Kentucky, USA. He proposes to revamp classic beer analysis techniques like detecting color, polyphenols, tannins, protein and nitrogen content by using the new SPECTROstar Nano. You can read his proposal on our website at www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/first-winner.cfm

Dr. Spedding was delighted that his proposal was chosen as the first winner of a SPECTROstar Nano. "As a new but pioneering lab in the Brewing and Distilling Analytical field, along with promoting wine analysis, we are naturally delighted to have had our proposal chosen for the new SPECTROstar Nano. The brewing industry in particular has lagged behind in implementing modern instrumentation at this level and there is a need to modernize and scale down many assays used in the industry. We recently started work on nutrient analyses for beverage fermentation and high gravity fermentation systems will be amenable to study using the SPECTROstar Nano. We look forward to extensive use of this instrument in the coming years. We thank you for choosing our quite unique proposal and will try and do full justice in return for receiving one of these flexible and state of the art instruments. Our best wishes to other contestants for future drawings on this program.


If you have a great idea for the SPECTROstar Nano like Dr. Spedding, submit your entry before the second winner is chosen in April. Simply write a short 2-4 page proposal on how your lab would use this new and unique instrument. Its proprietary ultra-fast spectrometer instantaneously captures a full UV-Vis spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volumes samples. Fast, full spectrum measurements will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, Protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase.

Entries will benefit from proposing to use the instrument in a unique fashion or from proposing to use one of the instrument's many unique features such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536 well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetics, BMG LATECH's low volume LVis Plate, or robotic interface mode. Probability of success and thoroughness will also be used to evaluate the proposals. For more information go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion or ask your local BMG LABTECH representative.

We thank Dr. Spedding for submitting this exciting proposal and wish him further success with the use of the SPECTROstar Nano.

Don't forget to submit your proposal before April 15th to qualify to win the second of five free SPECTROstar Nanos from BMG LABTECH.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

March 22, 2011
BMG LABTECH to announce first SPECTROstar Nano winner and hold two workshops at SBS 2011
BMG LABTECH, world leader in microplate reader technology, is proud to be a Bronze Sponsor of the SBS Conference 2011 in Orlando, Florida. Visit us at booth 807 and join us at our workshops to see latest innovations in microplate reading technology including the SPECTROstar Nano, which can instantly capture a full UV/Vis spectrum (220  1000 nm) in low volume samples, microplates and cuvettes.
See BMG LABTECHs full range of innovative microplate reading solutions or discuss your assay needs personally with our applications scientists at booth 807. Also stop by to find out how you can be the next winner of one of five free SPECTROstar Nanos from BMG LABTECH. For more details, go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/.
Discover the next-generation microplate reading technology from BMG LABTECH in cooperation with Invitrogen, Promega, and Hudson Robotics at our various workshops throughout the conference.
" Profiling and Characterizing Kinases Using a Flexible Multi-Assay Screening System. March 29, 2011, 12:30  1:30 pm in Room Tallahassee
" Screening of Enzymes and Ion Channels through a Combination of Unique Instrumentation, Reagents, and Software March 30, 2011, 12:30  1:30 pm in Room Tallahassee.
BMG LABTECHs scientific poster presentations include:
" Cell-based phosphorylated Akt (Ser473) detection using HTRF® technology and the PHERAstar Plus
For more information on these events, or to pre-register for one of these workshops visit our SBS conference website: www.bmglabtech.com/sbs
We are excited to support the Society for Biomolecular Sciences in its endeavour to foster medical treatment by implementing new drug development and screening strategies. Since the beginning, BMG LABTECH has been committed to providing you with high quality instrumentation for both academic and high-throughput laboratories. We look forward to seeing you at the SBS 2011 Conference in Orlando, Florida.


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

March 04, 2011
Don't Miss Your Chance to Win One of Five Microplate Readers
Redefine your absorbance assays with a free SPECTROstar Nano microplate reader from BMG LABTECH!

To celebrate the launch of the new SPECTROstar Nano, BMG LABTECH is offering you the chance to receive one of five free SPECTROstar Nano absorbance microplate readers which include an ultra-fast spectrometer to instantaneously capture a full UV/Vis spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volume samples. Fast, full spectrum measurements will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase.

Submit your entry by March 15th to qualify to win the first of five free SPECTROstar Nanos from BMG LABTECH.

Write a short 2-4 page proposal on how your laboratory would use the SPECTROstar Nano. Entries will benefit from proposing to use one of the instrument's many unique features such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536-well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetics, BMG LATECH's low volume LVis Plate, or robotic interface mode. Probability of success and thoroughness will also be used to evaluate the proposals. For more information go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion or ask your local BMG LABTECH representative.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

February 07, 2011
Win a Free Absorbance Microplate Reader
The SPECTROstar Nano is the next evolution in absorbance reader technology and BMG LABTECH is giving away five of these unique instruments for your ideas. Its proprietary ultra-fast UV-Vis spectrometer instantaneously captures a full spectrum in microplates, cuvettes and low volumes samples. It will redefine the most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase, while expanding your laboratorys capability with different sample formats.

For your chance to receive one of five free SPECTROstar Nanos, just submit a short 2-4 page research proposal on how your laboratory would use the SPECTROstar Nano. Proposals will be evaluated based upon uniqueness of research. Tell us how you would use the instrument in a unique way and/or use one of its many unique features, such as: full UV/Vis spectrum per well, gas vent for atmospheric control, 1536 well plate reading capability, incubation and shaking, reference corrections to existing assays to improve data, cuvette and plate kinetic capability, BMG LATECHs low volume LVis Plate, robotic interface mode or one of the other outstanding features that the SPECTROstar Nano offers. Winners will also be chosen by probability of success and thoroughness of the individual proposals. For more information go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/ or ask your local BMG LABTECH representative.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

January 17, 2011
BMG LABTECH Plate Readers at LabAutomation 2011
Instantly capture a full UV/Vis spectrum (220 - 1000 nm) in low volume samples, microplates and cuvettes with the New SPECTROstar Nano. Ultra-fast full spectrum analysis, multimode shaking, incubation, kinetic readings, well scanning, automated path length correction, a gas vent and robot compatibility are only a few of the outstanding features that the SPECTROstar Nano has to offer. For more information on this and other innovative microplate reading solutions from BMG LABTECH visit us at booth No. 351.

Free SPECTROstar Nano Promotion - Stop by our booth to find out how to receive one of five free SPECTROstar Nanos from BMG LABTECH. For more details go to www.bmglabtech.com/promotion/.

BMG LABTECH is also offering two workshops at this meeting. Join us for lunch on Monday and Tuesday to learn about automation solutions with BMG LABTECH microplate readers. For more information and pre-registration please visit: www.bmglabtech.com/labauto.

Monday, January 31 (12:30-2:00 pm) Intelligent Screening through a Unique Combination of Instrumentation and Software, presented with Hudson Robotics Using Model Kinases

Tuesday, February 1 (12:30-2:00 pm) Quantitative Cell-Based Screening Assays Using the Next Generation HTS Microplate Reader

Since 1989, BMG LABTECH has been committed to providing high quality microplate readers for academic and high-throughput laboratories and has earned the reputation of being a technology leader through ongoing innovations and by carefully listening to the needs of scientists. For more information about the SPECTROstar Nano and other innovative microplate reading solutions from BMG LABTECH visit www.bmglabtech.com.


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

September 23, 2010
FLUOstar Omega Microplate Reader- Drug Discovery Product of the Year 2010
BMG LABTECH is proud to announce that the FLUOstar Omega multimode microplate reader has received the award for "Drug Discovery Product of the Year 2010. This is a special honor as it is an independent user´s choice award voted by the international scientific community via Select Science.

The FLUOstar Omega provides you with the best combination of performance and flexibility for all of your life science and R&D applications. Using BMG LABTECH's unique Tandem Technology, it has been acknowledged as the perfect microplate reader for a wide range of applications in basic research, life science studies, and assay development. Fluorescence Intensity, UV/Vis full spectrum absorbance, luminescence, AlphaTechnology, and TRF (TR-FRET) detection technologies, can all be read by the FLUOstar Omega with ease and superior performance.

Since 1989, BMG LABTECH, The Microplate Reader Company, has been committed to providing high quality microplate readers for academic and high-throughput laboratories and has earned the reputation of being a technology leader through ongoing innovations and by carefully listening to the needs of the scientific community. BMG LABTECH has developed the widest range of high quality microplate readers, ranging from simple entry level luminescence and absorbance microplate readers to high-end multidetection platforms for high throughput screening (HTS). BMG LABTECH operates with a worldwide network of subsidiaries and distributors who are equipped to supply and fully support researchers in the academic lab as well as the pharmaceutical industry.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

September 02, 2010
SPECTROstar Nano - Revolutionary Absorbance Microplate Reader
BMG LABTECH introduces a revolution in absorbance reading - SPECTROstar Nano
Experience the future of microplate reader technology today with the new SPECTROstar Nano. This ultra-fast, full spectrum absorbance microplate reader with cuvette port is perfect for all absorbance assays. Its rapid full spectrum analysis at a resolution of 1 nm allows for absorbance assays never before possible on a microplate reader.
Using an ultrafast absorbance spectrometer, it can capture a full UV-Visible spectrum from 220 nm to 1000 nm in less than 1 sec/well and measure sample volumes down to 2 µL. Use the built-in cuvette port for kinetic studies and quick experiments and measure all standard microplate formats up to 1536 wells. The SPECTROstar Nano allows for single push button operation for basic commands, as well as specific assay protocol set up.Ultrafast, full spectrum analysis, multimode shaking, incubation, kinetic readings, well scanning, automated path length correction and a gas vent are only a few of the outstanding features that the SPECTROstar Nano has to offer.
The most common absorbance assays such as ELISAs, DNA, RNA, Protein (Bradford, BCA, Lowry), cell growth, and beta-galactosidase can be performed with ease due to predefined protocols.
Since 1989, BMG LABTECH has been committed to providing high quality microplate readers for academic and high-throughput laboratories and has earned the reputation of being a technology leader through ongoing innovations and by carefully listening to the needs of the scientific community.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

March 25, 2010
The Microplate Reader Company joins ALSSA
The ALSSA - Analytical & Life Science Systems Association - Board of Directors recently approved applications for membership submitted by BMG LABTECH, Inc. Based in Cary, North Carolina, BMG LABTECH is a leading developer and global manufacturer of microplate reader instrumentation with a wide range of measurement methods. BMG LABTECHs products are used in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, as well as in academic research establishments, for both basic research analysis and High Throughput Screening. Ron Earp PhD, President, will serve as the official representative to ALSSA and E.J. Dell PhD, Business Development and Applications Scientist, will serve as the alternate contact.

ALSSA's mission is to be an advocate for our industry and a valuable aid to users' advancement of science and life. The companies that are members of ALSSA are globally-focused corporations involved in a range of scientific challenges and their technologies are used to conduct research, testing, discovery and product development in a wide range of industries. Applications include pharmaceuticals and drug discovery, biotechnology, chemicals and chemical processing, food safety, life science and medical research, university and scientific research, forensics, molecular diagnostics testing and environmental testing.

more info: http://www.alssa.org

February 24, 2010
BMG LABTECH microplate readers support iGEM 2009 winners
A group of Cambridge undergraduate students (two engineers, a physicist, three biochemists and one geneticist) had been brought together to enter the premiere undergraduate Synthetic Biology Competition iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machines) competition, 2009. Their team goal was to design an entirely new two-part system comprising a sensitivity tuner and seven pigments all derived from the natural kingdoms, an environmental sensor with easy-to-read visual output.

The iGEM competition was set up in 2004, and its aim is to add to the "Parts" Registry which is a continuously growing collection of genetic parts that can be mixed and matched to build synthetic biology devices and systems. It has now grown into international competition with 1700 undergraduates in 112 teams from 26 different countries.

The "parts" are interchangeable components of DNA - BioBricks - which the students involved use to design novel biological systems, inventing new BioBricks as necessary along the way. The competition is also an effective way of introducing more students (and universities) to the new field of genetic engineering.

BMG LABTECH was delighted to give its full support to this project with a FLUOstar OMEGA fully equipped to read Fluorescence, Luminescence and Absorbance and complete product and applications support.

The successful Cambridge team was overall winner of the competition beating 112 teams from 26 different countries including Harvard, MIT and Berkeley.

Jim Haseloff's group were also so delighted with the sensitivity and technical capabilities of the FLUOstar Omega that they have now purchased it to continue with their research into plant morphogenesis.

To find out about iGEM 2010 visit www.igem.org.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

January 15, 2010
The Microplate Reader Company - Automation at its Best
BMG LABTECH - The Microplate Reader Company - was recently featured in the article "Automation at its Best" from Laboratory Equipment Magazine. In this article EJ Dell explains how BMG LABTECH instruments, escpecially the mulitdetection HTS microplate reader PHERAstar FS, can be easily integrated into robotic systems. For more information, click here to read the article.



more info: http://www.laboratoryequipment.com

December 10, 2009
BMG LABTECH Microplate Readers on YouTube
BMG LABTECH now has their own YouTube Channel. Visit www.youtube.com/bmglabtech to see the latest videos from The Mircoplate Reader company.Currently you can view testimonials from satisfied BMG LABTECH customers. Other videos are scheduled to folllow shortly, so be sure to tune in often to see the latest innovations in microplate reading technology.

more info: http://www.youtube.com

September 09, 2009
The Microplate Reader Company - Simplifying Automation
BMG LABTECH was recently featured in an article in Bioscience Technology about simplyifying automation. Click the link below to read this article.

more info: http://www.biosciencetechnology.com

September 02, 2009
Microplate Reader Technology Workshops at ELRIG 2009
BMG LABTECH to Showcase Latest Innovations in Microplate Reading Technology at ELRIG - Drug Discovery 2009
BMB LABTECH are pleased to be sponsoring some exciting events at the ELRIG - Drug Discovery 2009 meeting in Liverpool. Visit Booth A5 and see the latest innovations in microplate reading technology including the New Gold Standard HTS Microplate Reader, the PHERAstar FS. Applications scientists will also be available to discuss your assay needs.

Join them at one of their New Technologies Workshops, on Monday, September 7th at 13.00 (Seminar Room 6) and Tuesday, September 8th at 8.30am (Seminar Room 5) to hear about running the latest applications from Invitrogen, DiscoveRx, Bellbrook Labs, KBiosciences and Cisbio on BMG LABTECH's innovative microplate readers. You can also find out more about the PHERAstar FS and take advantage of a range of exclusive special offers available to workshop attendees.

BMG LABTECH is also delighted to be sponsoring the evening drinks reception.

We look forward to seeing you at ELRIG - Drug Discovery 2009, in Liverpool.


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

August 19, 2009
BMG LABTECH- The Microplate Reader Company - joins SiLA
In an effort to foster easy integration of BMG LABTECH´s product line into various robotic platforms, BMG LABTECH has joined the Standardisation in Lab Automation - SiLA - consortium. Founded in 2008 and based in Switzerland, SiLA develops a new standard to ease the integration of different devices into laboratory automation systems. For more information on the consortium, please visit

more info: http://www.sila.coop

July 02, 2009
PARP Inhibitor Screening with the FLUOstar Omega
PARP inhibitors have recently been pushed to the forefront of many avenues of cancer research. Poly ADP-ribosylation is a post-translational modification of proteins that plays a crucial role in regulating DNA repair. Polymerases (PARP) catalyse the reaction with the help of NAD+. PARP inhibitors have been shown to potentiate the cytotoxcity of anti-cancer drugs and are therefore extremely interesting target compounds for cancer research.

BMG LABTECHs FLUOstar Omega has been proven to be an important tool in the screening of PARP inhibitors. This multidetection microplate reader is able to perform the complex assays needed for the evaluation of PARP inhibitors. The capability of the FLUOstar Omega to read numerous detection modes including fluorescence, luminescence and absorbance, facilitates simple and rapid measurement of all aspects of PARP inhibitor evaluation using a single machine.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

May 15, 2009
PHERAstar FS HTS Microplate Reader at SBS
BMG LABTECH was a proud bronze sponsor of the 2009 SBS Conference in Lille, France. In addition to our well visited booth and introduction of the PHERAstar FS HTS microplate reader, BMG LABTECH also presented a scientific poster highlighting the AlphaLISA® assay as well as two tutorials at this conference. The first was a new product tutorial on BMG LABTECH's Next Generation HTS Microplate Reader, the PHERAstar FS; and the second was in conjunction with DiscoveRx on how to perform their new GPCR PathHunter eXpress cell line on the PHERAstar Plus HTS reader. We also created a video with Select Science at this conference introducing the new features of the PHERAstar FS.
Click here for the SBS page.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

May 11, 2009
New Microplate Reader Distributor for Estonia
BMG LABTECH is proud to announce the latest addition to our global support network in Estonia - Ordior Eesti OÜ.
Ordior Eesti OÜ will be responsible for sales and service of BMG LABTECH microplate readers for the region of Estonia. For more information, please visit our contact or support pages for Estonia.


more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

April 24, 2009
The Microplate Reader Company now on Facebook.
BMG LABTECH - The Microplate Reader Company can now be found on Facebook. Join our fans and get updates on our latest application notes, products, events and other important information as soon as it happens.

more info: http://www.facebook.com

March 06, 2009
BMG LABTECH - The Microplate Reader Company - featured in GEN article
BMG LABTECH was recently featured in an article in Genetic Engineering News with the title Low-Volume Liquid Handling Gaining Favor.

more info: http://www.genengnews.com

January 14, 2009
PHERAstar FS - The Ultimate HTS Microplate Reader
The next-generation HTS microplate reader PHERAstar FS is to be launched at the Lab Automation 2009. The PHERAstar FS incorporates all of the features that one would expect from the ultimate high-end HTS microplate reader. Tandem Technology, utilizing highly sensitive filter based detection in all modes and an ultra fast UV/Vis spectrometer is only one of the many outstanding features that make the PHERAstar FS the only solution for HTS and assay development. Expect superior performance and speed in all detection modes with unrivalled sensitivity. On-board smart reagent injectors, dedicated lasers for AlphaScreen^® and TR-FRET as well as top and bottom reading make the PHERAstar FS the most flexible multidetection HTS microplate reader in the world.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

October 07, 2008
Omega Microplate Readers with Advanced Technology Package
BMG LABTECH's Omega Series of Microplate Readers: Now TR-FRET & AlphaScreen^® compatible

The Omega series, including the FLUOstar Omega and POLARstar Omega, is the world's only microplate reader line with Tandem Technology utilizing high-speed UV/Vis spectrometer based absorbance and ultra-sensitive filter based detection in all measurement modes. These multidetection microplate readers are capable of reading absorbance, luminescence, fluorescence intensity, fluorescence polarization and time-resolved fluorescence. Combined with a high intensity xenon flash lamp, assay optimized filters and adjustable gain, the Omega series outperforms any microplate reader in the mid-range market.

The FLUOstar Omega and POLARstar Omega now include an Advanced Assay Technology Package for even more demanding applications including AlphaScreen^® and TR-FRET assays such as HTRF^® and LanthaScreen^TM. With HTRF^® certification, LanthaScreen^TM Certified Plus status and DLReady^TM certification, BMG LABTECH's innovative Omega Series is the perfect solution for all your microplate based applications.

Established in 1989, BMG LABTECH is a global supplier of microplate measurement and handling systems for basic research and High-Throughput Screening. BMG LABTECH focuses on microplate readers with a wide variety of optical detection systems in conjunction with integrated liquid handling equipment. BMG LABTECH is committed to bringing you innovative technology with the reliability and quality that you expect from a dedicated microplate reader specialist.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

October 07, 2008
PHERAstar Plus HTS Microplate Reader Video
BMG LABTECH UK was recently featured at SBS/Elrig Drug Discovery 2008 (Sept. 23^rd-24^th, 2008) in Bournemouth, UK. This video highlights the flagship HTS microplate reader, PHERAstar Plus, and its significant enhancements in sensitivity levels for luminescence and HTRF^® assays as well as other notable features. For a full video presentation please click here.

August 29, 2008
MARS available for all BMG LABTECH microplate readers
Offenburg - Germany BMG LABTECH GmbH, the worldwide leader in innovative microplate reading technology announces full compatibility of the sophisticated data analysis software MARS for all BMG LABTECH microplate readers.

MARS can now also work on the NOVOstar, NEPHELOstar, the OPTIMA- and OMEGA- series of microplate readers as well as the high-end PHERAstar Plusmulti-detection HTS reader. MARS provides quick and easy results and user-defined data processing is done simply by one click of the mouse.

Upgrade to MARS and benefit from the calculation of important parameters such as S/N, Delta F % and Z´. Easy calculation of a standard curve and the Template Manager for building complex data processing protocols are main features of the software. MARS includes powerful sort and order functionality, averaging of raw and blank corrected data, automated or user-defined range adjustment, zoom functions, and a curve fitting library to allow fast calculation of EC50, IC50, r2, and CV values. MARS is also FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliant.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

April 03, 2008
BMG LABTECH announces Collaboration with Invitrogen
Invitrogen's drug discovery products will be tested on certain BMG LABTECH microplate readers, and select BMG LABTECH instruments, such as the PHERAstar and OMEGA series, will be certified for use with specific Invitrogen technology platforms. Initial certifications will focus on Invitrogen's assay systems for key target classes, such as LanthaScreenTM TR-FRET for protein kinases, PolarScreen^TM FP technology for nuclear receptors, GeneBLAzer^® reporter-gene technology for G protein-coupled receptors and Adapta^TM, a new TR-FRET assay system for lipid kinases. This collaboration will allow BMG LABTECH and Invitrogen to develop and promote joint applications for the drug discovery market.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

March 15, 2008
PHERAstar Plus- Flagship for HTS
BMG LABTECH´s PHERAstar Plussets new standards in HTRF^®, luminescence and fluorescence polarization reading

To satisfy the ever-increasing demands of the HTS community a new version of the highly successful microplate reader PHERAstar is available from BMG LABTECH, the PHERAstar Plus. The PHERAstar Plusfeatures Advanced HTRF^® / TR-FRET, Advanced Luminescence, and Advanced Fluorescence Polarization reading modes by integrating the latest technological advancements in optics and electronics. Coupled with the new powerful data analysis software package MARS, these new features extend the application versatility of the PHERAstar Plus.

The PHERAstar Plus is a simultaneous dual emission HTS microplate reader offering all leading detection technologies including fluorescence intensity / FRET, fluorescence polarization, time-resolved fluorescence / TR-FRET, laser-based AlphaScreen^®, luminescence / BRET, and UV/Vis absorbance. The new instrument provides both enhanced HTRF^® performance with market leading Z' and TR-FRET ratio performance and a fourfold increase in luminescence sensitivity. This is made possible by BMG LABTECH's innovations in the modular optical system combined with the unique well-proven detection technology. The PHERAstar Plus is the only microplate reader on the market with five photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) and Simultaneous Dual Emission (SDE) technology optimized for specific reading modes and the capability to capture TR-FRET decay curves in real-time for assay optimization.

The PHERAstar Plus will be delivered with a new version of BMG LABTECH's established Reader Control and a completely new MARS Data Analysis Software with significant ease-of-use enhancements such as S/N, Z', and many other standard calculations. The Wizard creates an easy step-by-step calculation of a standard curve and the Template Manager is an excellent tool for building complex data processing protocols. Thus, user-defined data analysis is done simply with one click of the mouse. Improved robotic integration capabilities, digital signature and the 21 CFR part 11 compliance of MARS complete this new software.

Established in 1989, BMG LABTECH is a global manufacturer of microplate measurement and handling systems for basic research and High-Throughput Screening. We focus on microplate readers with a wide variety of optical detection systems in conjunction with integrated liquid handling equipment. We are committed to bringing you innovative technology with the reliability and quality that you expect from BMG LABTECH. Visit our website for more information on the PHERAstar Plus: www.bmglabtech.com



more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

February 14, 2008
BMG LABTECH releases the new evaluation software, MARS

Offenburg - Germany  BMG LABTECH GmbH, the worldwide leader in innovative microplate reading technology announces the release of the new Microplate Reader Analysis and Data Reduction Software, MARS.

BMG LABTECH´s microplate readers are used in pharmaceutical, biotech, and academic labs. They have been recognized in premier peer-reviewed publications to provide high quality data in the life sciences. Based on a friendly graphical user interface, the MARS software now allows analysis and display of multiple measurement methods and has no limitation regarding the number of data points.

The most common detection modes include absorbance, luminescence, fluorescence intensity, fluorescence polarization, time-resolved fluorescence, and time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET), to study compound solubility, antioxidant capacity, protein-protein binding, nucleic acid concentration, and second messengers such as ATP and cAMP.

MARS works on the NEPHELOstar, the OPTIMA- and OMEGA- series of microplate readers as well as the high-end PHERAstar multidetection microplate reader. Compatibility for the NOVOstar will be available in April, 2008.

The MARS wizard creates an easy step-by-step calculation of a standard curve and the Template Manager is an excellent tool for building complex data processing protocols. New features include powerful sort and order functionality, averaging of raw and blank corrected data, lock on data trace, automated or user-defined range adjustment, zoom functions, and a curve fitting library to allow fast calculation of EC50, IC50, r2, and CV values.
MARS provides results quick and easy and user-defined data processing is done simply by one click of the mouse.

Digital Signature and the 21 CFR part 11 compliance of MARS complete this new software package.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

December 01, 2007
Omega Series - DLReady™

BMG LABTECH´s Newest Series of Multifunctional Readers with Unique High Speed Full Spectrum Absorbance

DLReady^TM certification, awarded by Promega Corp., validates an instrument that has passed the strict performance levels and standards required for the Dual-Luciferase Reporter (DLR^TM) assay system. DLR^TM is one of the most commonly used luminescence assays for measuring gene transcription in a microplate format. Using firefly and Renilla luciferases as reporter genes, the DLR^TM Assay System rapidly quantifies gene expression in transfected cells or in cell-free transcription/translation reactions.

BMG LABTECH´s FLUOstar Omega, POLARstar Omega, and LUMIstar Omega have all been certified by Promega. The Omega is the world´s only DLReady^TM multidetection microplate reader that can capture a full absorbance spectrum (220 to 850 nm) at a resolution of 1 nm. Read times faster than 1 second per well are possible. This makes the Omega the 3rd series of BMG LABTECH life science readers that have been DLReady^TM certified, along with the OPTIMA and Galaxy series and the NOVOstar microplate reader with micropipettor.

For technical information on performing the DLR^TM assay on the FLUOstar Omega, POLARstar Omega, or LUMIstar Omega microplate reader, an application note can be downloaded here

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

July 01, 2007
The New Omega Series

The New Omega Microplate Reader: Another Level of Flexibility

BMG LABTECH has started serial production of the new Omega family of multifunction microplate readers with high resolution, full UV/Vis spectrometer based absorbance. This new family of readers combines all of the speed, sensitivity and flexibility needed for life science applications and research.

The Omega line is made up of four models: the SPECTROstar Omega, a spectrophotometer; the LUMIstar Omega, a luminometer; the FLUOstar Omega, a multidetection reader (fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence, luminescence, and absorbance); and the POLARstar Omega, a multidetection reader with additional simultaneous dual emission and fluorescence polarization mode. Due to the absolute modular concept of the Omega family of readers, the SPECTROstar Omega and the LUMIstar Omega are entirely upgradeable to a multidetection microplate reader whenever the need for fluorescence based experiments arrives.

The Omega readers are fast, reading a 384-well plate in less than 15 seconds. In addition, the Omega series offers a number of outstanding features: integrated injectors with direct access to the measurement position; photometric spectral scans; top and bottom reading; well scanning; temperature control up to 60°C; shaking; stacker and robot compatibility; and a gas vent connection to support all major types of cell based assays.

Main technical innovations of the new reader series include extensive upgradeability, as well as the capability of capturing a full absorbance spectrum (220 to 850 nm) in one second per well, at a fantastic resolution of 1 nm. Furthermore, a new UV-enhanced flashlamp and high speed plate shaking are now available.

The Omega series of microplate readers will be delivered with a new powerful software package, including new proprietary evaluation software. This evaluation software displays and analyzes endpoint, kinetic and spectral data through comprehensive data reduction algorithms and various curve fitting options. It is compatible with the new Windows Vista" operating system and is fully compliant with FDA regulation 21 CFR Part 11.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com

January 03, 2007
Enhanced AlphaScreen^® and FP in the PHERAstar
BMG LABTECH announces further enhancements to its multimode microplate reader PHERAstar.

These enhancements result in better performance of both AlphaScreen^® and FP assays.

In addition to simultaneous dual emission reading in all leading detection modes (F, L, TR-FRET, BRET, FRET and FP) the PHERAstar now also has improved AlphaScreen^® performance with four times faster plate read speed and market leading Z' factors for AlphaScreen^® assays.

FP specification has also been enhanced and improved. With 1.0 mP SD (at 1 nM fluorescein in 384-well plates) the PHERAstar widens the gap even further from the competition.
Finally the speed of reading has been increased by up to 50%.

No matter what type of assay you run, the PHERAstar offers you the speed and flexibility that you would expect from a world leading multimode microplate reader.

more info: http://www.bmglabtech.com