Read-Only Luminex Immunoassay Analysis

Our Read-Only Luminex Analysis service enables experienced researchers to utilize their own kits and reagents (e.g., ProcartaPlex, BioRad, etc.) while leveraging our center’s high-performance Luminex instrumentation and expertise in data acquisition.

The Luminex xMap INTELLIFLEX system has 5.5 logs of dynamic range and an embedded PC with touchscreen interface. Notably, the Luminex xMap INTELLIFLEX allows for simultaneous detection and quantification of up to 80 protein targets in a single well with only 6.3-50µL of sample of plasma, serum, cell culture, or other bodily fluids, such as gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Additionally, the Luminex xMap INTELLIFLEX instrument also allows for the fast and high-throughput detection and quantification of up to 80 multiplexed gene targets in a single well of a 96- or 384-well plate. With 96- and 384-well plate formats available, we can process up to 153,600 tests per hour. You handle the kit setup; we handle the assay run and deliver clean, organized output data.

This hybrid model offers high flexibility and cost efficiency, catering to projects where you are comfortable with assay preparation but want streamlined access to trusted instrumentation and data support.

1. Planning consultation
   • Contact the center early to discuss your experimental design, panel configuration, and sample volumes.
   • We’ll work with you to identify the best panel(s) and ensure your volumes and plate layout are compatible with our system.
2. Quotes & logistics
   • The center provides a “Read-Only” quote based on your project’s plate count, sample number, and expected runtime.
   • You purchase the recommended kits, reagents, and consumables.
3. Kit preparation
   • You process your samples and perform the assay preparation according to kit manufacturer’s instructions.
   • You bring the fully prepared plate(s) to our core at the scheduled time (typically within a defined window for quality control purposes).
4. Data acquisition
   • Center personnel take responsibility for plate loading, instrument setup, QC checks, and data acquisition on our Luminex instrument.
   • We follow best practices for instrument calibration and can provide documentation of QC metrics upon request.
5. Data delivery
   • We deliver your data as an Exponent file and organized CSV file with each sample, anolyte, and concentration values clearly labeled.
   • We include summary QC statistics so you can proceed confidently with downstream analysis.

• Instrument specificity: the Luminex xMap INTELLIFLEX system allows for simultaneous detection and quantification of up to 80 protein or gene targets using only 6.3-50µL of sample.
• Cost efficiency: Since you supply the kit, the service price is limited to instrument time and data acquisition costs (typically lower than those for full-service runs).
• Flexibility: You retain control over kit selection, sample prep timing, and layout design while still benefiting from our equipment and data support.
• Quality assurance: Our instrument is regularly calibrated and maintained, ensuring that data acquisition meets center service standards.
• Fast turnaround: Since sample preparation is done in your lab, we focus exclusively on acquisition and data delivery, often reducing wait times.

Q: What if my sample prep fails or I have an unexpected problem with the kit?

A: Since you are responsible for kit preparation, our service assumes the plate is ready for acquisition. We recommend you perform internal QC (e.g., replicate wells) before delivery. If prep issues arise, we can schedule a meeting; however, additional charges may apply. If the sample failure is due to a machine read error, we will rerun the assay.

Q: Can you provide assistance with kit setup or panel optimization?

A: Absolutely! While the Read-Only service assumes you will perform the assay preparation, we can provide consultation for panel design and sample volume optimization before you purchase reagents.

Q: What sample volumes are required?

A: We recommend planning for a minimum of 50µL of sample. While the minimum sample volume needed is 25µL per well, we recommend preparing an overage in case of sample failure.

Q:  How long does data delivery take?

A: Typically, data acquisition is completed on the same day the plate is run. We aim to deliver your organized CSV file within 1-2 business days after acquisition, assuming there are no QC failures.

Q: Is there a minimum plate count or project size?

A: Our minimum is one 96-well plate.