Our Technology

30 Years of Cytometry

Many objects are too large and too fragile for conventional flow cytometry. As an alternate, manual microscopic manipulation of multicellular organisms, large fragile cells and cell clusters, or bead-based assays is tedious and subjective thereby limiting the size and scope of experiments. Union Biometrica was founded to improve this research. The first generation COPAS™ (Complex Object Parametric Analyzer and Sorter) was introduced in 1998 as a tool for high throughput manipulation of C.elegans in drug screening.

Over the next 10 years Union Biometrica expanded the COPAS platform into a family of fully-automated systems for high throughput analysis, sorting / dispensing of large objects ranging from 20–1500 microns in diameter. Each of the four unique COPAS models is engineered around a specific flow cell size and optimized to accommodate different size ranges of small model organisms, large cells / cell clusters, seeds and pollen, as well as large particles such as beads used as micro-carriers or for peptide libraries. By automating time consuming manual sorting processes, the time required for experiments is dramatically reduced, human error is eliminated and new experiments that previously could not be considered are now possible. In addition, digital electronic detection provides increased sensitivity and improved quantitative discrimination.

With the introduction of the BioSorter™ platform, Union Biometrica offers a single system with interchangeable Fluidic and Optics Core Assemblies (FOCA) thereby addressing the need for more flexible, departmental and core laboratory shared instruments.

The BioSorter instrument incorporates the same patented technologies for analysis and gentle sorting of 10 to 1,500 micron objects based on size (TOF / time-of-flight), optical density (EXT / extinction) and by the presence and intensity of fluorescent markers. Both platforms deliver high purity and yield, while maintaining sterility and viability of even large fragile cells.

As a third platform, we have introduced the new COPAS VISION family of instruments which expand our traditional large particle analysis and sorting capabilities with the addition of real-time, on-line brightfield imaging. Those images can help you quickly identify what objects are in a particular gate region, analyze concentration in a well, and observe sample morphology. In addition the COPAS VISION is built upon our next generation optics and electronics for the highest sensitivity data collection we offer.

The most recent addition to the COPAS family – COPAS Infinity. Designed to accommodate the evolving needs of the modern lab, this platform combines a smaller footprint, aerosol containment, UV sterilization, sorting and high sensitivity optics with all the proven capabilities of COPAS cytometers.