BD Biosciences initiates next-generation flow cytometer

BD Biosciences, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), announced today the launch of the BD FACSAria™ III Cell Sorting System, a next-generation flow cytometer with the ability to run complex multicolor experiments using up to six lasers.

"As the pioneer in flow cytometry, BD Biosciences' goal is to expand the range of applications that can benefit from this technology by building innovative, powerful tools that are easier to use and more accessible to a larger number of life science researchers," said James Glasscock, President, BD Biosciences – Cell Analysis.  "The new BD FACSAria III system reflects this effort by providing researchers the flexibility to configure a system that meets their application requirements and budgets today, with the ability to expand its capabilities later to meet future needs."

Innovations in the new BD FACSAria III Cell Sorting System include:

• A next-generation gel coupled cuvette in the flow cell ensures that the system's lasers are focused precisely on the sample stream and that they generate the greatest signal to maximize the amount of emitted light.  Most importantly, it improves collection efficiency and optimizes the resolution needed for multicolor applications, even at high-speed sorting settings.
• The instrument's advanced optical system works efficiently to maximize signal detection as well as greatly increase the sensitivity and resolution for each color in a multicolor assay. Enhanced sensitivity and resolution helps readily identify and sort dim cell populations.  In addition, the system's next-generation flow cell is designed to improve resolution for side population applications and DNA cell cycle analyses.
• A new expandable architecture uses an X-mount optical plate that allows the system to be expanded to support up to six laser wavelengths — 633 nm, 561 nm, 488 nm, 445 nm, 405 nm and 375 nm — as well as up to 20 detector positions that can be used simultaneously.
• A backwards-compatible architecture allows customers to upgrade existing instruments to the new BD FACSAria III platform.  With a field upgrade, laboratories with a BD FACSAria or BD FACSAria II system can upgrade to the new capabilities of the BD FACSAria III system.