High-content imaging systems have revolutionized the field of drug discovery and biological research as a whole, offering high-throughput screening capabilities, enabling simultaneous analysis of multiple parameters, and surpassing traditional methods in comprehensiveness. Multiplexing techniques facilitate the examination of various cellular components within a single assay, optimizing hit identification and enhancing the predictive power of the results.
High-content imaging systems also excel in cellular phenotyping, detecting intricate changes in cell morphology and processes, and utilizing 3D cultures to better mimic in vivo environments, making assays more relevant and insightful.
These systems, while requiring significant investment, are quite cost-effective. They bring unparalleled benefits in terms of screening efficiency, lead optimization, and safety evaluation. Their ability to streamline experimental workflows and provide comprehensive insights into cellular processes have made them essential to advancing cell and systems biology research.
In this post, we’ll cover the key features of high-content imaging systems, popular systems, and their prices. By evaluating factors such as system price, productivity, throughput, and ease of use, researchers can make informed decisions to maximize their return on investment and enhance their research capabilities.
High-content imaging (HCI) combines advanced image acquisition technology with automated image processing and analysis software to provide detailed, multi-parametric data at the single-cell and subcellular levels. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that make up these systems.
High-content imaging systems use cutting-edge technology to ensure precise and efficient analysis of cellular samples. Key components include various image acquisition technology, sophisticated analysis software, and advanced automation features that, collectively, enhance the ability researchers have to image and screen chemical compounds:
High-content imaging (HCI) systems are versatile tools used in various applications, including live cell imaging, 3D cell models, and whole organisms.
High-content imaging (HCI) systems are versatile tools used in various applications, including live cell imaging, 3D cell models, and whole organisms. Let’s review:
High-content imaging systems excel in applications involving 3D cell models, offering advanced techniques for studying complex and biologically relevant assays.
High-content imaging systems extend their utility beyond in vitro applications to in vivo imaging, particularly in preclinical studies.
There are several high-content imaging systems available, each with unique features and capabilities. Here is an overview of some of the most popular: ImageXpress Micro 4, ImageXpress Micro Confocal, and ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai systems.
The ImageXpress Micro 4 is a configurable, high-throughput widefield imaging system designed for fast biological processes. Key features include advanced automation and user-friendly software for seamless lab integration. High-speed imaging ensures rapid data acquisition for high-throughput screening and time-lapse studies.
Its versatile imaging modes and broad dynamic range suit various applications. Environmental control supports live cell assays and fast kinetic studies, while its field-upgradable design allows for future enhancements like confocal imaging:
The ImageXpress Micro Confocal is a high-content confocal imaging solution with proprietary spinning disk technology. Key features include advanced confocal imaging with AgileOptix™ spinning disk technology for high-resolution imaging. Water immersion objectives enhance resolution and sensitivity for complex 3D assays.
The dual disk unit offers basic confocal, high-throughput confocal, and widefield imaging modes. Integrated fluidics support real-time kinetic events, and the controlled chamber maintains optimal conditions for live cells. High-throughput capabilities allow rapid imaging of entire 384-well plates with multiple fluorescent images in minutes:
The ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai system is a powerful multi-laser light source confocal imaging system. Key features include:
The Micro Confocal System is a high-content imaging platform designed for 3D organoid and spheroid imaging. Key features include advanced 3D imaging with AgileOptix™ spinning disk technology for high resolution, and water immersion objectives for enhanced sensitivity.
The system's high-throughput capabilities allow rapid imaging of entire 384-well plates, while the environmental control chamber regulates temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide to maintain cell viability and accuracy:
The ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai, with its multi-laser light sources, spinning disk confocal technology, and water immersion objectives, would have a higher upfront cost compared to the ImageXpress Micro 4 widefield system.
However, the advanced capabilities of the Confocal HT.ai system can provide greater productivity and throughput, potentially offering a better return on investment in the long run. Factors like ease of use, environmental control options, and automation/robotics integration can also impact the overall cost and cost-effectiveness of the high-content imaging system.
Ultimately, the higher end systems can deliver greater productivity and a better return on investment compared to more basic widefield imaging platforms. Your choice will depend on your specific research needs and the budget constraints of your lab or company.
The cost of high-content imaging (HCI) systems is influenced by several key factors that determine their performance and capabilities. These include specific imaging modes, light sources, objectives, throughput capabilities, and automation features.
The ImageXpress Micro Confocal system from Molecular Devices is a prime example of a high-end HCI system that integrates advanced technologies to enhance imaging quality and speed.
In this section, we’ll explore how these factors contribute to the overall cost of HCI systems and provide estimated price ranges for each feature to help you understand the financial investment involved.
Confocal imaging provides higher resolution and a better signal-to-noise ratio compared to widefield imaging. This increased performance comes at a higher cost due to the need for additional components such as a pinhole or slit disk and laser light sources. Confocal systems can cost $100,000 to $400,000 more than widefield systems.
The ImageXpress Micro Confocal uses proprietary spinning disk confocal technology, which offers faster imaging speeds compared to laser scanning confocal systems. This speed increase can save significant time, especially in high-throughput environments, but adds approximately $50,000 to $100,000 to the system's cost.
The ImageXpress Micro Confocal uses multiple high-intensity lasers, providing brighter images and a better signal-to-background ratio compared to mercury or LED light sources. High-intensity lasers can add $50,000 to $200,000 to the overall system cost, depending on the number and power of the lasers.
Additionally, the number and quality of excitation filters available for different fluorophores can significantly impact the system's cost. High-quality filters can add $10,000 to $30,000 to the system, as they are crucial for achieving accurate and efficient imaging across various applications.
The ImageXpress Micro Confocal offers water immersion objectives, which provide higher resolution, sensitivity, and dynamic range compared to air objectives, especially for imaging 3D samples.
These objectives can cost between $5,000 and $20,000 each, adding substantial expense to the system. Higher magnification objectives, such as 40x or 60x, are generally more expensive than lower magnification objectives. Each higher magnification objective can add $5,000 to $15,000 to the system's cost.
The ability to image a wide range of plate formats, from 6-well to 384-well, can increase the system's cost. Versatility in plate formats can add $20,000 to $50,000, as it requires more complex and adaptable hardware and software.
Faster scanning speeds, which allow for imaging of entire plates in a shorter time, are typically more expensive. High-speed scanning capabilities can add $30,000 to $100,000 to the system, depending on the technology used.
The ability to integrate the HCI system with robotic plate handlers for automated high-throughput screening can significantly increase the system's cost. This integration can add $50,000 to $150,000, considering the robotics and software required for seamless operation.
Features like temperature, humidity, and CO2 control for live cell imaging can add to the system's cost. Environmental control systems can add $20,000 to $80,000, ensuring optimal conditions for live cell experiments.
Understanding the specific features of high-content imaging (HCI) systems and their associated costs is crucial for making informed decisions about which system best meets your research needs.
This section explores the various components and technologies that contribute to the overall expense of HCI systems, such as environmental control, autofocus, field of view, spinning disk technology, sCMOS cameras, advanced image analysis software, and 3D imaging capabilities.
By examining these features, you’ll learn how they enhance imaging performance and throughput, as well as how they impact the financial investment required for these advanced systems.
Environmental control options for temperature, humidity, and CO2 regulation enable live cell imaging and increase the cost of the system. High-speed autofocus is crucial for sharp images and accurate analysis. Laser-based autofocus is more reliable and expensive compared to other methods.
Field of View and Spinning Disk Technology
A larger field of view allows imaging of more cells per field, improving throughput but increasing cost. Spinning disk confocal technology, like AgileOptix™ used in ImageXpress systems, enables faster imaging speeds compared to laser scanning confocal. It is more expensive than widefield imaging.
SCMOS Cameras & Their Role in Image Acquisition
Scientific CMOS (sCMOS) cameras offer high resolution, sensitivity, and speed for rapid image acquisition. They are more costly than standard CCD cameras. Multiple cameras can be used for parallel imaging to increase throughput, further increasing system cost.
High-Content Analysis (HCA) & Image Analysis Software Like MetaXpress
Advanced HCA software like MetaXpress utilizes machine learning and deep learning for automated image analysis and classification. Sophisticated analysis capabilities add to the overall cost of the HCI system.
3D Imaging & 3D Analysis Capabilities
3D imaging of complex samples like organoids and spheroids requires confocal technology and water immersion objectives for better resolution and sensitivity. 3D analysis capabilities, including volumetric analysis, add to the cost of the system.
Use in Stem Cell, Organoids, & Spheroids Research
Imaging of stem cells, organoids, and spheroids is an important application of HCI systems. Confocal systems with spinning disk technology and water immersion objectives are preferred for these applications, increasing the system's cost.
When evaluating the total cost of ownership for a high-content imaging (HCI) system, it is essential to look beyond the initial purchase price. Additional expenses and operational requirements can significantly impact the overall budget.
This section delves into various aspects such as cell culture requirements, well plate formats, advanced analysis software, maintenance, and specialized imaging capabilities. By understanding these factors, you can make a more informed decision and accurately budget for both the upfront and ongoing costs associated with high-content imaging systems.
Cell Culture & In Vitro Requirements
Cell culture consumables like media, supplements, and plastics can add significant recurring costs. Specialized cell lines or primary cells for complex assays like 3D organoids may be more expensive. Environmental control features like temperature, humidity, and CO2 regulation increase the upfront cost but are necessary for live cell imaging.
Well Plate Formats & Proliferation Assays
The ability to image a wide range of well plate formats, from 6-well to 384-well, can increase the cost of the system. Proliferation assays that require long-term kinetic monitoring may necessitate higher-end systems with faster scanning speeds and larger fields of view.
Costs of Phenotypic Profiling & High-Content Screening Workflows
Advanced image analysis software with machine learning capabilities, like IN Carta, adds to the overall system cost. Integrating the HCI system with robotic plate handlers for automated high-throughput screening can significantly increase the upfront investment. Developing and optimizing complex phenotypic profiling and screening assays requires significant time and expertise, adding to the operational costs.
Screening System Maintenance & Operational Costs
Regular maintenance, calibration, and service contracts for high-content imaging systems can be expensive. Consumables like objectives, filters, and light sources have finite lifespans and require periodic replacement. Dedicated staff with expertise in high-content imaging and analysis are necessary, adding to the operational costs.
Importance of Time-Lapse & Whole Organism Imaging in Cost Assessment
Time-lapse imaging of live cells over extended periods requires additional environmental control features, increasing the system's cost. Imaging of whole organisms, such as in vivo studies, may necessitate specialized sample preparation and imaging chambers, further adding to the overall costs.
High-content imaging systems prices are influenced by various factors, including specific imaging modes, light sources, objectives, throughput capabilities, and automation features. Knowing which of these factors is crucial to research will help you pick the right system for your research needs and budget. Let’s review the key factors that influence cost:
Always consider the specific applications, such as live cell imaging, 3D cell models, or whole organism studies, and prioritize the features that are most important for your work. While high-end systems like the ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai offer advanced capabilities, they come at a higher cost. Widefield imaging systems, such as the ImageXpress Micro 4, can be a more cost-effective option for certain applications, with the ability to upgrade to confocal imaging if needed.
Ultimately, your selection should be based on a balance between the required features, performance, and the available budget. By understanding the key cost factors, you can make an informed decision and invest in a high-content imaging system that best supports your research goals.
Leasing a high-content imaging system with Excedr can be a smart financial strategy for researchers and institutions looking to access cutting-edge technology without the significant upfront costs. Our leasing program allows for more manageable, periodic payments, conserving capital for other critical areas of research. We include maintenance and support services as well, reducing the burden of upkeep and ensuring optimal performance. All in all, you can expect:
