This is the third post in a series reflecting on themes from FOG (Boston) and EACR (Budapest). This post covers two themes that were less flashy than multiomics and spatial biology but are potentially more consequential in the long run: the integration of AI across the field, and a structural shift in the experimental models researchers are using. Both are less about new science and more about the shifting infrastructure underneath. 

Click to read Part One and Part Two.

At FOG in particular, AI wasn’t confined to its own dedicated track. It was woven through virtually every session, across genomics, proteomics, drug discovery, pathology, and clinical data science. Assay automation, foundation models, agentic platforms, generative tools, and machine learning pipelines all featured across the full breadth of the programme. 

The signal isn’t that AI is coming to biology. The signal now is that AI is assumed. It’s becoming infrastructure rather than innovation. The more interesting questions are about what AI currently can’t do well, and where the field’s enthusiasm is running ahead of its validation. 

The hardest of those questions, and the one I kept hearing across both conferences: QC and standardisation of multi-modal data remains a genuine bottleneck. Sequencing data has well-established quality metrics (Q scores, coverage depth, error rates) that the field has spent two decades refining. High-content spatial imaging data doesn’t have equivalent consensus standards. Batch effects, optical artefacts, tissue quality variation, and registration errors all introduce noise that current QC frameworks handle inconsistently. 

This matters because AI tools are only as good as the data they’re trained and validated on. If the underlying data quality standards aren’t solved, AI amplifies the noise rather than cutting through it. Whoever solves the reproducibility and validation problem at scale for spatial and multimodal imaging data will capture disproportionate value as the field translates into clinical use. 

Less visible than AI and multiomics, but very recognisable especially at EACR is that research is moving away from animal models toward more human-relevant systems. Organoids, in vitro tissue models, and banked human tissue are gaining ground as primary experimental targets. 

This shift is being driven from multiple directions. Regulatory frameworks are increasingly permitting non-animal alternatives for preclinical testing, and the economics favour it. Animal studies are slow, expensive, and have well-documented translational failure rates. And the scientific argument is straightforward: if the goal is to understand human biology, starting with human material makes more sense than starting with a model organism and hoping the biology translates. 

The technology ecosystem around this shift is responding faster than I’d expected. Plenty of new platforms for 3D cell culture, tissue engineering, and high-throughput organoid screening were visible across both conferences, from established companies and newer entrants alike. The infrastructure to support human-relevant preclinical research is being built now, and the pace suggests this is a structural shift rather than a passing trend. 

These two themes (AI integration and the move to human-relevant models) might seem unrelated, but they share a common thread: both are about the foundations of how research gets done changing underneath the science itself. AI is reshaping the data infrastructure. Organoids and banked tissue are reshaping the experimental infrastructure. Together, they’re redefining what a well-equipped lab looks like.

Interested in how these infrastructure shifts connect to your lab’s workflows? Whether it’s spatial data analysis, 3D cell culture, or automation, we’re here to help you navigate what’s next.

This is the second post in a series reflecting on themes from the Festival of Genomics (Boston) and EACR (Budapest).

In this post, I want to unpack the two themes that dominated the scientific sessions at both conferences: the convergence of multiomic workflows, and the maturing spatial biology landscape.

The most consistent theme across both conferences. Researchers are looking for multiple molecular readouts from the same sample, and the general approach is shifting to expect it.

From the genomics side, sequence is increasingly a starting point rather than a destination. Methylation status, three-dimensional chromatin architecture, and RNA modifications are now treated as essential layers that sit alongside sequences. The range of assay chemistries addressing these layers has expanded noticeably, and the expectation is that a complete genomic picture includes epigenetic context, not just the linear sequence of bases.

At the sequence level itself, whole-genome sequencing (ideally diploid and phased) is slowly becoming the expectation over exome as the cost differential narrows. The information lost by sequencing only coding regions is becoming harder to justify when intronic, regulatory, and structural variant information is increasingly recognised as clinically relevant.

In addition to genomics and transcriptomics, the shift in focus to include proteins is becoming increasingly important, as proteins are the actual functional units of biology. As such, alternative top-down proteomics approaches are complementing traditional mass spectrometry, opening protein profiling to labs without dedicated proteomics infrastructure. Beyond proteins themselves, the field is increasingly profiling metabolomics and lipidomics alongside traditional proteomics, building toward a more complete molecular phenotype.

The boundaries between different biological compartments are blurring. Workflows that were previously siloed are converging, driven by both the scientific recognition that biology doesn’t operate with disciplinary boundaries, and the practical reality that sample material is often limited. The goal is to extract as many meaningful readouts as possible from each sample.

Spatial transcriptomics and proteomics have been conference staples for several years, but the conversation at both FOG and EACR had clearly matured past raw capability and into practical deployment. 

The spatial proteomics field in particular appears to be bifurcating. High-plex panels (10s to 100s of markers) are doing discovery work, casting a wide net to identify which proteins matter in each tissue context. But lower-plex panels (<10 markers) are emerging as the format that pharma and clinical labs actually want for deployment. A small, validated, reproducible panel gives a clearer answer in a clinical workflow than a hundred-marker discovery panel does.  

Spatial methods more broadly are moving from research toward translational and clinical use, but the view from pharma is more measured than the hype. Several pharma-side speakers noted that spatial technologies validate digital pathology rather than replacing it, H&E staining remains the clinical gold standard, and that the current platforms aren’t quite mature enough for routine diagnostic use. 

The structural gaps everyone points to are remarkably consistent: automation (too much hands-on time per sample), standardisation (too much variability between operators and sites), and analysis tools that hold up under industry reproducibility requirements. 

None of this means spatial is overhyped. It means the field is in the transition phase between research tool and clinical infrastructure, which is the most interesting and consequential phase to be in.

We’d be happy to discuss how these trends connect to the tools and platforms available in ANZ.

Hi, I’m Gerry Ma, Technology and Development Manager here at Millennium Science. I joined Millennium Science a few months ago, having come from commercial roles across the flow cytometry, single-cell genomics, and spatial transcriptomics fields. I now spend a good portion of my time talking to scientists and technology developers about where the field is heading and what tools ANZ researchers need to do their best work. 

In early June, I attended two conferences back-to-back: the Festival of Genomics (FOG) in Boston, and the European Association for Cancer Research congress (EACR) in Budapest. Two very different audiences (genomics and AI in Boston; translational cancer research in Budapest), but the overlap in themes was more striking than the differences.

This is the first in a short series of Field Signals blogs where I’ll share what stayed with me. Not a comprehensive conference review, but the observations I kept coming back to upon returning home, and the ones I think matter most for how research is going to look over the next few years. 

Before diving into the technical themes, I wanted to share one personal highlight that set the tone for everything else. 

At FOG, George Church (Harvard Medical School), Mark Adams (The Jackson Laboratory for Genomics Medicine), and Sorin Istrail (Brown University) discussed the future of genomics in a session that also served as a tribute to the late J. Craig Venter, who was originally meant to speak. Their conversation ranged across multiomics, in situ genomics, xenotransplantation, national-scale sequencing programmes, and the role of AI in biological data at population scale. 

But what stayed with me was simpler than any of those topics. Watching three scientists who shaped the field reflect on the history of genomics and past conversations with Craig Venter was a reminder that the technologies we now take for granted were built by people who had genuine scientific progress as their primary motivation, and who thought in decades rather than quarters. 

That framing stuck with me through both conferences. The decisions being made right now about how we integrate multiple data types from different platforms, how we standardise methods, and how we shift toward new experimental models are the decisions that will define the trajectory of the next decade of biological research. These decisions deserve the same kind of long-term thinking.

Over the next few posts, I’ll unpack the themes that came through most clearly: 

• Part 2 will cover the convergence of multiomic workflows and the maturing spatial biology landscape. 

• Part 3 looks at AI integration and a quieter but potentially more consequential shift in experimental models. 

• Part 4 wraps up with a personal perspective on why mechanistic depth still matters more than breadth. 

Every day, researchers create extraordinary scientific images that rarely leave the lab or a conference presentation. Through the Lens of Discovery celebrates the beauty, creativity and impact of biological research across Australia and New Zealand. Whether it’s a stunning microscopy image, a colourful spatial transcriptomics map or an elegant data visualisation, we invite you to share the images that tell your scientific story.

Winning images will be featured in the 2027 Through the Lens of Discovery Calendar, showcasing the remarkable research and scientific visualisations created by our community.

Entries should showcase or complement research enabled by 10x Genomics technologies. This may include images, microscopy, spatial maps or data visualisations generated using or supporting discoveries made with 10x Genomics platforms. 

1. Seeing the Invisible

Biology revealed through microscopy

Examples: Fluorescence microscopy, confocal imaging, tissue sections, cell morphology, spatial transcriptomics overlays 

2. Science in Full Colour

The beauty of colour in biology

Examples: Immunofluorescence, multiplex imaging, Xenium images, Visium spatial maps, False-colour bioinformatics visualisations 

3. Art from Data

When data becomes art

Examples: UMAPs, t-SNE, spatial clustering, gene expression heatmaps, cell trajectories, Circos plots, network diagrams 

4. Worlds Within

Images that resemble landscapes, galaxies or abstract art

Examples: cell clusters, organoids, embryos, plant tissues, brain sections 

5. Patterns of Life

Structure, symmetry and organisation

Examples: Cell neighbourhoods, tissue architecture, spatial organisation, developmental gradients, cellular ecosystems

1. 1. Follow Millennium Science on LinkedIn.
   2. Post your photo on LinkedIn.
   3. Add a title for your image.
   4. Tell the story behind your image (50–150 words).
      • What are we looking at? 
      • Why is it important? 
      • How does this image relate to research enabled by 10x Genomics technology? 
   5. Tag both:
      • @Millennium Science
      • @10x Genomics
   6. Include the hashtags: #10xDiscoveryANZ #ScienceThroughTheLens #10xGenomics

Alternatively, submit your photo through our online entry form.

Entries will be judged by a panel of representatives from Millennium Science and 10x Genomics based on the following criteria:

• Scientific impact (30%)
• Creativity (30%)
• Storytelling (20%)
• Visual quality (20%)

Category Winners (5)
One winner will be selected from each competition category by a judging panel from Millennium Science and 10x Genomics.

Community Choice Award
Chosen by the research community through public voting on LinkedIn.

Image of the Year
Selected by the judging panel from the five Category Winners. This image will be featured on the cover of the 2027 Through the Lens of Discovery Calendar.

• Featured in the 2027 Through the Lens of Discovery Calendar
• Featured in The Cell Brief
• Showcased across Millennium Science and 10x Genomics ANZ social media
• $50 Amazon Gift Card

• Only open to researchers, clinicians and students based in Australia or New Zealand.
• Images must be original. Both published and unpublished images are welcome.
• Image submission requirements
  • JPEG or PNG 
  • Minimum 3000 px on the longest side (or 300 dpi) 
  • Maximum three entries per person 
  • AI-generated images are not eligible
• Entrants must own the rights to the image. Entrants are responsible for obtaining permission from their supervisor, principal investigator or institution where required before submitting images.
• Appropriate ethics and consent must have been obtained where required.
• Images may have minor edits (brightness, contrast, cropping), but excessive manipulation is discouraged.
• Entries must demonstrate, incorporate or relate to research enabled by 10x Genomics technologies. 
• By entering, participants confirm that their submission does not contain confidential or unpublished information that cannot be publicly shared, and grant Millennium Science and 10x Genomics permission to reproduce and feature their submitted images in the Through the Lens of Discovery Calendar and related promotional materials, with full credit provided to the creator.

Modern life science laboratories are under constant pressure to generate reliable data faster, improve reproducibility, and streamline increasingly complex workflows. From ELISA automation and nucleic acid quantification to high-throughput screening and live-cell analysis, selecting the right liquid handling and detection platform can significantly improve laboratory efficiency. 

Agilent’s liquid handling and microplate instrumentation portfolio combines flexible automation, multimode detection, plate washing, dispensing, and workflow integration technologies designed to support research laboratories ranging from routine assay environments through to advanced high-throughput screening facilities. 

Agilent offers a broad range of workflow solutions that help laboratories: 

• Reduce manual pipetting and repetitive handling  

• Improve assay consistency and reproducibility  

• Scale from low-throughput to automated high-throughput workflows  

• Support applications including ELISA, cell-based assays, nucleic acid quantification, microbial kinetics, phenotypic screening, and organoid workflows  

• Integrate automation across washing, dispensing, detection, and plate handling  

Agilent absorbance readers support routine laboratory workflows including ELISAs, protein assays, microbial growth studies, and nucleic acid quantification.  

Agilent 800 TS Microplate Reader 

The 800 TS is designed for straightforward absorbance workflows and cost-conscious laboratories requiring reliable performance for routine assays. 

Key features 

• Reads wavelengths from 400-750 nm  

• Supports 6- to 384-well plates  

• Touchscreen interface with USB export  

• Optional temperature control and shaking  

• Gen5 software integration  

Best-fit applications: ELISAs, Protein assays, Enzyme kinetics, Basic cell-based assays  

Agilent Epoch Microplate Spectrophotometer 

The Epoch combines monochromator-based UV-Vis detection with flexible wavelength selection for nucleic acid and protein quantification workflows.  

Key features 

• UV-Vis range from 200-999 nm  

• Compatible with Take3 micro-volume plates  

• Temperature control to 65 °C  

• Supports 6- to 384-well plates  

Best-fit applications: DNA and RNA quantification, 260/280 and 260/230 purity measurements, Cytotoxicity assays, Cell proliferation studies, Enzyme kinetics  

Agilent Epoch 2 Microplate Spectrophotometer 

The Epoch 2 expands absorbance capabilities with stand-alone touchscreen operation and full-spectrum scanning functionality.  

Ideal for: Spectral scanning, Microbial growth kinetics, Nucleic acid purity analysis, Stand-alone absorbance workflows  

Reliable washing is critical for reducing background noise and improving assay consistency in ELISA and cell-based workflows. 

Agilent 50 TS Washer 

The 50 TS provides dependable automated washing for routine assays and pairs naturally with absorbance readers like the 800 TS.  

Applications: ELISA washing, Cell-based assays, Vacuum filtration workflows 

Agilent 405 LS and 405 TS Washers 

These automated plate washers support more advanced workflows with dual-action manifold technology and automation compatibility.  

Key features 

• Automated washing for 96- and 384-well plates  

• Biomagnetic separation support  

• Vacuum filtration modules  

• Four-buffer switching  

• BioStack automation compatibility  

Best-fit workflows: ELISA, Microsphere-based assays, Automated cell-based assays  

Combining washing and dispensing into a single platform can simplify workflows and reduce instrument footprint. 

Agilent 406 FX Washer Dispenser 

The 406 FX integrates washing and dispensing capabilities for automated multi-step assay workflows.  

Highlights 

• Washing plus up to six reagent dispensers  

• Supports biomagnetic protocols  

• Compatible with 96- to 1536-well plates  

• Robotic integration support  

Common applications: ELISA automation, Cell culture workflows, Bead-based assays  

Agilent EL406 Washer Dispenser 

The EL406 combines rapid washing and dispensing into a compact automation-ready platform.  

Ideal for: High-throughput ELISA workflows, Multiplex assays, Integrated wash and dispense automation  

Agilent MultiFlo FX Multi-Mode Dispenser 

The MultiFlo FX is designed for flexible reagent dispensing across a wide range of assay formats.  

Key capabilities 

• Dispensing to 6- to 1536-well plates  

• Up to four reagents in parallel  

• Gentle media exchange options for delicate cultures  

Applications: 2D and 3D cell culture, Spheroid and organoid workflows, ELISA preparation, Bead-based assays  

Agilent multimode readers combine absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence detection technologies to support a broad range of assay requirements. 

Agilent Synergy Neo2 

The Synergy Neo2 is designed for demanding high-throughput and multiplex workflows.  

Features 

• Hybrid detection with filter and monochromator optics  

• Laser TRF capability  

• Up to four PMTs  

• Environmental control with CO₂/O₂ regulation  

Applications: High-throughput screening, Multiplex assays, Advanced multimode workflows 

Agilent Synergy HTX 

The Synergy HTX provides economical multimode detection for routine assay environments.  

Detection modes: Absorbance, Fluorescence, Luminescence, Alpha assays  

Agilent Synergy LX 

The Synergy LX is designed for straightforward multimode detection with an intuitive touchscreen interface.  

Ideal applications: Nucleic acid quantification, ELISA, BCA and Bradford assays, Cell viability workflows  

Agilent Synergy H1 

The modular Synergy H1 platform enables laboratories to scale capabilities as assay requirements evolve.  

Supports: Absorbance, Fluorescence, Luminescence, AlphaScreen, TRF workflows  

Agilent Cytation 9 

The Cytation 9 combines automated imaging with multimode detection in a single platform.  

Key capabilities 

• Imaging up to 60× magnification  

• Fluorescence, luminescence, and UV-Vis detection  

• Live-cell environmental control to 65 °C

• BioStack automation compatibility  

Common applications: Live-cell imaging, Phenotypic screening, Quantitative cell analysis

Agilent BioStack 

The BioStack automates plate loading and unloading for walk-away workflow automation.  

Benefits 

• Fast plate exchange  

• Delidding and re-lidding support  

• Compatible with 6- to 1536-well plates  

• Enables unattended high-throughput processing  

Agilent’s liquid handling and microplate instrumentation portfolio supports a wide spectrum of laboratory applications, from routine absorbance assays through to advanced automation and high-content workflows. With scalable solutions for washing, dispensing, detection, imaging, and plate automation, laboratories can build flexible workflows that improve reproducibility, efficiency, and throughput.  

To discuss the best Agilent liquid handling workflow for your laboratory, contact the team at Millennium Science. 

Clinical research is increasingly driven by the need to understand biological heterogeneity, identify actionable biomarkers, and link molecular mechanisms to patient outcomes. Traditional bulk and low-resolution approaches often mask clinically relevant signals, slowing discovery and translation. 10x Genomics technologies accelerate clinical research by enabling cell-resolved and spatially resolved insights at scale at earlier in the research pipeline.

A targeted Clinician Researcher Accelerator Program designed to support medically qualified clinician researchers in generating high-impact spatial and single-cell data, with dedicated support and preferential pricing to fast-track translational research.

The Clinician Researcher Accelerator Program is a limited-time initiative supporting medically qualified clinician researchers who are looking to integrate spatial transcriptomics and single-cell profiling into their research. Successful applicants will receive access to dedicated technical guidance, and preferential pricing to help generate robust pilot data for translational and clinically focused studies.

Many clinical samples including tumours, immune tissues, and biopsies, are highly heterogeneous. Bulk profiling averages signals across cell populations, obscuring rare or disease-driving cell states.

Chromium Single Cell technologies enable researchers to:

• Identify rare or pathogenic cell populations
• Characterise immune cell diversity and activation states
• Study patient-to-patient variability at cellular resolution

Clinical impact:
Earlier identification of clinically relevant subpopulations improves hypothesis generation, patient stratification strategies, and biomarker discovery.

Understanding where cells are located within tissue is critical for clinical interpretation, particularly in oncology, immunology, and pathology-driven research.

Visium Spatial Gene Expression allows researchers to:

• Map gene expression within intact tissue sections
• Correlate molecular patterns with histology
• Identify spatially distinct disease niches

Clinical impact:
Spatial context strengthens biological interpretation, supports translational relevance, and enables more compelling mechanistic narratives for grants and publications.

Discovery technologies are most powerful when paired with targeted validation in clinically relevant samples.

Xenium In Situ enables:

• High-plex, single-cell resolution spatial validation
• Direct visualisation of clinically relevant gene signatures
• Confirmation of biomarkers within preserved tissue architecture

Clinical impact:
Xenium supports the transition from discovery to validation which is a critical step for translational studies, diagnostic development, and clinical adoption.

Clinical research is often constrained by:

• Limited sample availability
• Ethical and governance considerations
• The need to justify scale and cost upfront

10x Genomics platforms are well suited to small, high-information pilot studies, allowing researchers to:

• De-risk experimental design
• Generate convincing preliminary data
• Strengthen ARC, NHMRC, and translational grant applications

Clinical impact:
High-quality pilot data reduces uncertainty and accelerates progression to larger, funded studies.

Complex clinical questions rarely have single-dimensional answers.

10x Genomics workflows support:

• Integration of transcriptomics, immune profiling, and spatial biology
• Cross-platform studies linking cell state, location, and function
• More comprehensive biological models of disease

Clinical impact:
Multi-modal data improves robustness, reproducibility, and translational relevance which is increasingly expected by reviewers and collaborators.

Clinical research demands consistency, robustness, and scalability.

10x Genomics technologies are:

• Highly standardised and widely adopted
• Supported by validated workflows and protocols
• Designed for reproducible data generation across sites

Clinical impact:
Standardisation supports multi-centre studies and facilitates collaboration between hospitals, academia, and industry.

Graduate students and early to mid-career researchers with no prior hands-on experience using 10x Genomics technologies are invited to apply for the prestigious 2026 Millennium Science – 10x Genomics Fellowship Program.
This Fellowship is designed to support researchers who are keen to adopt cutting-edge single-cell and spatial technologies in their work.

Applications close: 16 March 2026
Outcomes announced: 30 March 2026

The 2026 Fellowship Program focuses on the application of 10x Genomics technologies to FFPE samples, using one or more of the following platforms:
Chromium Single Cell
Visium Spatial 
Xenium In Situ  (NEW within the Fellowship Program!)

If you have any questions, please contact us at fellowship@mscience.com.au.

Flow cytometry has long been the backbone of high-dimensional single-cell analysis. With the ability to measure up to ~45 parameters per cell, flow has enabled researchers and core facilities to rapidly phenotype complex populations and enrich rare cell types with confidence.

But what if you could go further — without disrupting your existing workflows?

By integrating flow cytometry with single-cell sequencing, researchers can now move beyond predefined panels and surface markers to uncover deeper, unbiased biological insight.

Flow cytometry has long been the gold standard for measuring what you expect to see. But what about the biology you don’t expect? What about the rare cell states, subtle activation programs, and novel biomarkers that surface markers alone simply can’t capture?

This is where single-cell sequencing transforms your capabilities. By bridging flow cytometry with the 10x Genomics platform, you can move from measuring dozens of parameters to profiling 300+ protein markers—with the option to simultaneously capture whole-transcriptome gene expression from the same single cell.

Unmatched multiplexing without compromise
Breaking free from spectral overlap limitations opens new possibilities. Instead of carefully balancing fluorophore combinations, you can now interrogate hundreds of protein markers alongside comprehensive gene expression data. This quantum leap in multiplexing reveals cellular complexity that traditional flow simply cannot access.

Discovering What’s Hidden
Many critical cell states appear identical by surface protein analysis alone. Activation, exhaustion, differentiation, and stress states often require deeper molecular investigation to truly distinguish. Single-cell sequencing uncovers these hidden layers of heterogeneity, revealing novel populations and functional states that would otherwise remain invisible.

Deeper biology from enriched populations
Leverage FACS to isolate rare or complex populations, then apply single-cell sequencing to achieve transcriptome-wide and high-plex proteomic resolution.In short: sort with flow, then profile with depth.

Designed for Your Workflow

The beauty of this approach is that it builds on what you already do exceptionally well. Use FACS to enrich the rare or complex populations you’re interested in, then apply single-cell sequencing to achieve transcriptome-wide resolution. Your expertise in flow cytometry becomes the foundation for even more powerful discoveries.

By pairing flow cytometry with single-cell sequencing, researchers can access a new layer of biological resolution:

• Unbiased cell type and state discovery
  Identify known and novel populations without relying on predefined antibody panels.

• Protein validation with gene expression
  Confirm antibody signals and distinguish protein presence from true pathway activation.

• Functional state resolution beyond surface markers
  Dissect activation, exhaustion, differentiation and stress states that appear identical by flow.

• Pathway-level biology at scale
  Interrogate canonical pathways such as Wnt, TCR and interferon signalling through coordinated gene expression, rather than single proxy markers.

With the introduction of Single Cell Flex v2.0 (Protein-Only), high-plex single-cell protein profiling is now more accessible than ever.

This flexible option enables:

• High-plex protein analysis at a significantly reduced cost

• Support for more projects, more users and more samples

• No requirement for RNA profiling, where transcriptomics isn’t needed

For many flow cores, this opens the door to offering advanced single-cell services without the overhead of full transcriptome assays.

The integration of 10x Genomics technology with your existing flow cytometry services doesn’t mean disrupting established workflows—it means enhancing them. Your team’s expertise in high-dimensional single-cell analysis positions you perfectly to take this next step.

As the authorised 10x Genomics distributor in Australia and New Zealand, Millennium Science is here to help you understand how single-cell sequencing can complement and extend your current offerings. Whether you’re looking to add new capabilities, support cutting-edge research, or simply explore what’s possible beyond traditional flow, our specialists are ready to guide you through the options.

To help us meet your delivery requirements before the Christmas break, please note the following important dates: 

• For general consumable items: Place your order by 12 PM, Wednesday 26 November 2025.
• For 10x Genomics consumables: Place your order by 4 PM, Monday 1 December 2025.
• Instrument delivery times will be provided on a case-by-case basis.

• Our office will close at 12 PM on Tuesday 23 December 2025 and reopen on Friday 2 January 2026. 

• No orders will be processed during the office closure. 

• The Millennium Science warehouse’s final shipping day will be Wednesday 17 December 2025, resuming dispatches on Monday 5 January 2026. 

Thank you for your continued support throughout 2025. We wish you a safe and joyful holiday season! 

Please note: These dates are subject to product availability and the delivery facilities at your institution being operational. 

Endotoxins – lipopolysaccharides derived from Gram-negative bacteria – can trigger immune responses that compromise experimental accuracy, particularly in cell-based and in vivo studies. Sino Biological’s ProPure™ Endotoxin-Free Recombinant Proteins are produced under animal-free conditions using a proprietary purification workflow that delivers exceptionally low endotoxin levels (<0.1 EU/μg). Designed to meet the stringent demands of immunology, inflammation, and preclinical research, ProPure proteins provide confidence in experimental results by reducing background immune activation and ensuring reproducible data. 

Endotoxin contamination is a hidden but significant variable in biological research. Even trace amounts can lead to false-positive immune responses in assays or alter cytokine production in cell models. Traditional recombinant protein expression systems, particularly those using E. coli, often yield proteins contaminated with endotoxin residues, making additional purification essential before sensitive applications.

Sino Biological’s ProPure™ line was developed to address this critical challenge. Through an advanced combination of expression system optimisation, multi-step purification, and endotoxin removal, ProPure proteins achieve endotoxin levels below 0.1 EU/μg—surpassing industry standards. This makes them particularly well-suited for applications such as:

• In vivo animal studies requiring endotoxin-free reagents
• Cell stimulation and activation assays where innate immune pathways are measured
• CAR-T, vaccine, and antibody development research
• Inflammation and immunology studies sensitive to TLR activation

All ProPure proteins are animal-free, removing variability associated with serum-derived materials. The streamlined production process also retains native protein conformation and biological activity – critical for achieving consistent results across experiments.

Compared to standard recombinant proteins, ProPure reagents minimise background cytokine induction and non-specific immune activation, helping researchers distinguish true biological responses from endotoxin artefacts. By ensuring reproducibility and reliability, these proteins support high-quality data generation in translational and preclinical research environments.

With growing emphasis on data integrity and regulatory compliance, ProPure™ Endotoxin-Free Proteins represent a valuable upgrade for any lab working with immune cells, organoids, or animal models. Their consistent low-endotoxin profile helps meet the rigorous standards required for translational and preclinical workflows. 

When precision matters, ProPure™ Endotoxin-Free Recombinant Proteins provide unmatched purity and performance. By eliminating one of the most common sources of experimental variability, researchers can trust that their immune-related findings reflect biology – not contamination. 

Unless a formal Supply Agreement exists, a valid Purchase Order accepted by Millennium Science forms a binding commercial agreement.

A valid Purchase Order should:
• Be issued by an authorised representative.
• Include the Purchase Order number.
• Reference the Quotation number and quoted prices.
• Clearly identify the goods or services being purchased.
• Include delivery and invoicing addresses.

A Purchase Order is deemed accepted only when Millennium Science issues an Order Confirmation, commences performance, or dispatches the goods.

Once accepted, Purchase Orders cannot be cancelled unless both parties agree in writing. Millennium Science reserves the right to accept or decline any Purchase Order. Where a formal Supply Agreement exists, that agreement takes precedence over these Terms where any inconsistency exists.

Prices are based on supplier pricing, freight charges, customs duties and exchange rates applicable on the quotation date. Millennium Science may adjust prices before shipment if these costs materially change.

Delivery times are estimates only and may vary depending on manufacturer production schedules, product availability, importation requirements and freight availability. Millennium Science shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential loss arising from delayed delivery.

Where a delivery date has been agreed, Millennium Science will make reasonable efforts to meet that date. Delivery dates are estimates only and are not guaranteed.

Millennium Science is not liable for delays caused by events outside its reasonable control, including supplier delays, freight delays, customs or weather events. Customers may not refuse delivery solely because of a delivery delay unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Unless otherwise agreed, Millennium Science may select the most appropriate freight carrier. Freight charges will be itemised where applicable.

Millennium Science will notify the Customer of the following at the time of dispatch:
• Courier Company
• Shipping Date
• Consignment Number

Inspection on Delivery

Upon receipt of the goods, the Customer must inspect the shipment against the delivery note and notify Millennium Science Customer Service as soon as reasonably practicable of any shortages, incorrect items, or visible damage. Claims relating to damage should be supported by clear photographs of the affected goods and packaging where possible. Failure to notify Millennium Science within a reasonable time may affect our ability to investigate the claim with the freight carrier or manufacturer.

Storage of Products

Product storage requirements may vary depending on the manufacturer and product type. The Customer is responsible for ensuring products are stored under the recommended conditions immediately upon receipt. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer’s product datasheet, packaging, or instructions for detailed storage and handling requirements. Millennium Science is not responsible for product deterioration resulting from improper storage after delivery.

Millennium Science may vary payment terms where appropriate, including for special projects, custom products or milestone-based deliveries.

Any revised payment schedule will be detailed in the Quotation, Supply Agreement or other written agreement.

Goods and Service Tax (GST) of 10% will be applied where required under Australian tax law. GST will not be charged on qualifying export sales, including exports to New Zealand.

Millennium Science do not generally accept goods for return if they have been correctly supplied against a Purchase Order.

Under special circumstances certain equipment, spare parts and accessories ordered in error may be returned to our warehouse. The return would be at the expense of the Customer, the goods must not have been opened or used, and are not in your possession for longer than 14 days. A 25% restocking fee may apply.

Reagents, consumables, and temperature-controlled products cannot be returned unless they are defective or otherwise required by applicable law. Products supplied with a limited shelf life in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications are not eligible for return solely due to their remaining shelf life.

Freight and installation charges will be itemised in the Quotation unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Where commissioning services are purchased, Millennium Science will provide qualified personnel to unpack, install, connect and test the equipment. Where applicable, an installation report will be provided.

Millennium Science warrants that the products supplied are free from material defects in workmanship, subject to the applicable manufacturer’s warranty and any specific warranty terms stated in the Quotation.

The warranty does not cover misuse, accidental damage, unauthorised modification or repair, incorrect operation, failure to perform routine maintenance or consumable items such as batteries, lamps and fuses.

Except where prohibited by law, all other express or implied warranties, including warranties for merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are excluded.

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in effect.

These Terms are governed by the applicable laws of Victoria, Australia.

Millennium Science reserves the right to adjust prices before shipment where supplier costs, exchange rates, freight charges, import duties or government charges materially change after the quotation date.

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Millennium Science’s liability shall be limited to repair, replacement or refund of the purchase price. Millennium Science shall not be liable for indirect, consequential, special or economic loss.

Spectral flow cytometry continues to transform single-cell research – and now, for the first time, laboratories in Australia and New Zealand can experience the Agilent NovoCyte Opteon first hand.

Launched globally at CYTO 2024, the NovoCyte Opteon has already earned international recognition, taking home the Select Science Scientist’s Choice Award for “Best New Drug Discovery & Development Product of 2024.” With up to five lasers, 73 detectors, and cutting-edge optical engineering, this system represents the next generation of high-dimensional cytometry – and it’s now available for demo in ANZ.

Unlike conventional cytometry, the NovoCyte Opteon captures the full emission spectra of each fluorochrome across all lasers. This approach allows for greater panel flexibility, more accurate unmixing, and cleaner resolution of overlapping signals – ideal for complex immunophenotyping studies.

Traditional flow cytometry detects fluorescence using individual optical filters for each fluorochrome, limiting panel size and often causing signal overlap.
Spectral flow cytometry – like the Agilent NovoCyte Opteon – captures the entire emission spectrum from every fluorochrome across all lasers.
This enables:

• Greater panel flexibility with more markers in a single run

• Improved accuracy through spectral unmixing of overlapping signals

• Cleaner data by accounting for autofluorescence as a separate spectral component

The result is a more powerful, precise, and reproducible analysis – ideal for complex immunophenotyping and high-dimensional research.

Researchers can choose 3-, 4-, or 5-laser configurations, with the flagship system spanning UV, Violet, Blue, Yellow/Green, and Red lasers – and up to 73 detectors. Agilent’s proprietary optics and electronics maximise sensitivity and spectral separation, ensuring high-quality data.

It boasts a wide dynamic range both for fluorescence and scatter (size) detection, reducing the need for frequent detector adjustments.

Dual-laser small particle detection (using 405 nm and 488 nm SSC) enables detection of particles down to ~80 nm without needing separate adjustments between cell and particle modes.

Also, the instrument supports autofluorescence subtraction (i.e. treating autofluorescence as a spectral component), which helps resolve dim populations more clearly.

To maintain performance in variable lab environments, the NovoCyte Opteon integrates on-board temperature control, fluidics monitoring, electronics sensor circuits, and real-time instrument status feedback.

It’s compatible with the NovoSampler S, accepting 40-tube racks and microplates (384/96/48/24), and is ready for robotic automation. Calibration is automated, with templates for labware types saved for reproducibility. Carryover is minimal (< 0.1 %) via rinse cycles.

Agilent’s NovoExpress (Opteon) software version 2.0+ underpins the acquisition, unmixing, analysis, and reporting workflow. They’ve enhanced the user interface with an “unmixing” tab, streamlining spectral unmixing steps. The software supports both real-time acquisition and downstream “offline” analyses.

The arrival of the Agilent NovoCyte Opteon in the ANZ region marks a real milestone for spectral flow cytometry. Local researchers now have access to one of the most advanced, award-winning platforms available – combining powerful optics, automation readiness, and Agilent’s renowned reliability, all supported locally by Millennium Science.

If you’re interested in demoing the award-winning NovoCyte Opteon Spectral Flow Cytometer, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to arrange a hands-on session and see what spectral flow can really do for your research.

And if you’re attending CYTO-Connect (Perth, November 27-29, 2025), come and say hello – we’ll be there showcasing the Opteon and chatting all things spectral!

If you’re interested in a demo of the Opteon, contact us today!

Until next time… happy experimenting!

Spatial biology is transforming the way we understand biological systems. By integrating spatial information into research, it provides a holistic view of how cells and molecules interact within their native environment. This approach sheds light on the complex interplay between cellular and molecular components, offering deeper insights into the function and behaviour of living organisms.

To achieve reliable and reproducible results in spatial biology, careful antibody selection is essential. Here are some key considerations:

Secondary antibody selection begins with species. The host of your secondary must differ from both the tissue species and the host of the primary antibody. For example, when using a rabbit primary antibody on human tissue, a goat anti-rabbit secondary is preferred. This reduces background interference and ensures the signal reflects true binding rather than cross-reactivity..

Not all primary antibodies are the same. Polyclonal IgGs require anti-IgG secondaries, while monoclonal IgMs need anti-IgM secondaries. For monoclonal IgG subclasses (such as IgG1), it is best practice to use subclass-specific secondaries (anti-IgG1) for maximum accuracy. This level of matching safeguards against nonspecific binding and strengthens reproducibility.

Affinity purification ensures secondaries recognise their targets with high specificity. By removing unwanted immunoglobulins, affinity-purified antibodies deliver clearer signals and consistent results – especially when detecting low-abundance proteins. The result: less noise, less background, and greater confidence in your data.

Spatial biology thrives on multiplexing, but multiple species and fluorophores introduce complexity. Cross-adsorbed antibodies are refined to remove cross-reactive components, lowering background and minimising false positives. This makes them ideal for multi-label experiments where precision is paramount.

Signal clarity depends on the brightness and stability of your fluorophores. Rockland offers a wide range of conjugates, including DyLight™, Cy™, and FITC dyes. These high-performance labels are particularly powerful for detecting low-expression targets, ensuring that no signal is missed in complex tissue environments.

Cells don’t stand still, so why should your assays? The Agilent xCELLigence RTCA eSight™ goes beyond snapshots, revealing real-time cell behaviour with label-free impedance and live imaging.

By pairing biosensor impedance technology with live-cell imaging, eSight enables researchers to monitor cell health, function, and behaviour simultaneously, continuously, and in real time. It’s not just more data, it’s deeper, more meaningful insight into what your cells are really doing.

At the heart of RTCA eSight are proprietary E-Plates, embedded with gold biosensors. These electrodes non-invasively measure impedance, which reflects cell metrics such as:

• Proliferation
• Adhesion strength
• Morphological changes
• Migration and differentiation

Because impedance is recorded continuously, you capture events as they happen, in seconds, minutes, hours, or days, without disturbing the cells. The temporal resolution is exquisite, allowing you to see subtle shifts long before they’re visible under a microscope.

In concert with impedance, eSight’s imaging module provides brightfield plus three fluorescence channels (red, green, blue). This lets you visualise your cells directly while validating and enriching the kinetic impedance data.

The result is a spatial and temporal view of cell populations at an unprecedented level of detail, ideal for assays like proliferation, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis. And importantly, impedance and imaging are performed on the same cells, not replicate wells, so your data are directly correlated.

One setup, two data streams. Here’s how simple it is:

1. Seed your cells into an E-Plate.
2. Insert the plate into eSight (inside your incubator).
3. Define your assay in the RTCA software.

From there, impedance and imaging data are captured automatically, then integrated into a single timeline for straightforward analysis. The software even supports outputs like:

• RTCA images
• KT50 (time to 50% cytolysis at a given effector-to-target ratio)
• % Cytolysis dose response curves
• IC50 calculations

No juggling between platforms – just a unified dataset ready for export.

Researchers are already applying RTCA eSight to:

• Immune-cell killing assays – track cytolysis in real time with kinetic precision.
• Virology – Screening and characterizing antiviral drugs in real time
• Proliferation and apoptosis studies – capture early events, validate with imaging, and overlay with fluorescent markers.
• Cell heterogeneity analysis – reveal subpopulation responses that would be lost in averaged data.

  

The Agilent xCELLigence RTCA eSight is more than the sum of its parts. By integrating patented biosensor impedance with live-cell imaging, it delivers:

• Continuous, label-free monitoring of cell health and function
• Brightfield and Three-colour live-cell imaging for direct visual validation
• Unified kinetic datasets from the same cell population
• Broad versatility across immuno-oncology, virology, and general cell biology

For researchers who want to move beyond static snapshots, eSight offers a powerful new way to see biology unfold in real time, with the reproducibility, temporal resolution, and ease-of-use that modern labs demand.

If you’re interested in a demo of the eSight, contact us today!

Until next time… happy experimenting!

LICORbio’s new Atlas™ Imager is redefining cell imaging for life science researchers across Australia and New Zealand. Built for both 2D and 3D assays, Atlas combines speed, scale, and clarity in a single, easy-to-use platform – empowering scientists to accelerate discoveries in drug development, translational research, and beyond.

Unlike traditional systems that require manual stitching or time-consuming illumination corrections, Atlas is engineered to deliver whole-plate imaging in less than one minute. Its patented line-scanning optical system minimises background fluorescence, boosts sensitivity, and enhances multiplexing capabilities – critical for high-throughput screening and complex cell-based assays.

• High throughput – Acquire entire well plates rapidly or zoom into single wells with up to 5µm resolution.
• Broad applications – Capture cell viability, luminescence, and multiplex fluorescence data in one instrument.
• Deep 3D imaging – Confidently image spheroids, organoids, organ-on-a-chip models, and other microphysiological systems.
• Ease of use – Streamlined workflows reduce manual steps and consolidate multiple instruments into one solution.
• Cost-effective – Higher-content imaging without the high price tag of competitive systems.

From monitoring cell culture to high-resolution plate and well scanning, Atlas provides reliable, reproducible, and quantitative results with minimal hands-on time. With over 30 imaging channels spanning UV to near-infrared, researchers gain unmatched flexibility for diverse applications – from drug screening to advanced tissue modelling.

By eliminating inefficiencies and post-processing steps, Atlas lets you focus on what matters most: generating insights that move science forward.

• Whole-plate scans in under one minute
• Z-stack multiplex fluorescence for 3D studies
• Built-in luminescent imager
• Over 30 imaging channels with six lasers plus RGB LED
• End-to-end solution for cell-based assays

Whether you’re developing new therapeutics, studying disease models, or advancing organoid research, Atlas is the balanced solution for speed, sensitivity, and scalability in cell imaging.

A microarray is an assay that allows the simultaneous detection of multiple molecules – such as nucleic acids, peptides, proteins, or antibodies – within a small surface area. For example, thousands of molecules can be analysed on a standard glass slide (75 mm × 25 mm). Microarrays provide researchers and clinicians with a broad snapshot of biological processes at a given time.

One common type of microarray for protein analysis is the antibody array. Compared to traditional “single-plex” assays, such as ELISAs that analyse one protein at a time, antibody arrays are more cost-effective, require minimal sample volume, and enable multiplex protein detection. This blog explores the different antibody array formats, how they work, and considerations for choosing the right format for your research.

Step 1: Immobilise Capture Antibodies onto Substrates

Capture antibodies are immobilised on solid substrates such as glass slides, membranes, or microbeads.

• Planar surface arrays: Capture antibodies with known specificities are spotted on a slide or nitrocellulose membrane in an addressable format.
• Bead-based arrays: Capture antibodies are bound to beads of varying sizes and fluorescent properties. Each bead’s characteristics indicate the target protein.

Step 2: Block the Array

Before sample incubation, the array is blocked to prevent non-specific binding. Protein-based blockers such as BSA or non-fat milk, often with a detergent (e.g., 1% Tween-20), reduce background noise and improve data accuracy.

Step 3: Add Samples and Detection Antibodies

During incubation, capture antibodies bind their target proteins. Unbound proteins are removed via washing.

• Label-based arrays: Proteins are pre-labelled with biotin before incubation.
• Sandwich-based arrays: Biotinylated detection antibodies are added after sample incubation, creating a “sandwich” with the target protein.

Alternative approaches, such as using a biotinylated lectin to detect glycosylated proteins, can also be employed.

Step 4: Detect Proteins via Chemiluminescence or Fluorescence

A streptavidin molecule conjugated to a fluorophore or horseradish peroxidase (HRP) binds to biotin. Detection is then achieved using:

• Chemiluminescence: HRP substrate produces light, measured via CCD camera, X-ray film, or gel documentation system.
• Fluorescence: Fluorophores are detected with laser scanners for glass slides or flow cytometry for bead-based arrays.

Antibody arrays can generate:

• Qualitative data: Visual inspection of signal intensity.
• Semi-quantitative data: Fluorescent or chemiluminescent outputs with relative expression differences (fold changes).
• Quantitative data: Data compared against a standard curve to determine exact protein concentrations.

Sample volume depends on the substrate, array design, and sample dilution:

• Sample dilution: At least 2-fold to minimise “sample matrix effects” (SMEs) that can block antibody binding.
• Protein concentration: For non-serum samples, aim for ≥1 mg/mL (ideally >2 mg/mL) for stronger signal.
• Sample handling: Membrane-based arrays require more sample than glass or bead arrays but are easy to handle and have low background noise.

Label-based Arrays

• One antibody per protein (capture antibody).
• High-density arrays possible (up to 6,000 human proteins).
• Low sample volume required; semi-quantitative data.
• Best for biomarker discovery.

Sandwich-based Arrays

• Two antibodies per protein for higher specificity.
• Available on membrane, bead, and glass substrates.
• Provide semi-quantitative and quantitative data.
• Ideal for clinical trials and biomarker validation.

A Comparison of Label-based and Sandwich-based Antibody Arrays

Decision tree to help choose the appropriate antibody array for the experiment.

Antibody arrays are a powerful tool for multiplex protein detection and profiling. High-density arrays are ideal for large-scale biomarker discovery, while smaller panels can focus on specific pathways such as inflammation, angiogenesis, or growth factors. Customisable panels and full testing services are available, making these arrays accessible even for laboratories with limited resources.

When it comes to multiplex protein analysis, researchers need accuracy, speed, and simplicity. Traditional flow-based systems have long been the standard, but they bring challenges: sheath fluids, blocked probes, and constant maintenance. Enter the Mabtech EYRA™ – a fluidics-free multiplex immunoassay platform that reimagines how scientists generate cytokine and biomarker data. With confocal imaging, RAWsphere analysis, and compatibility with EYRAplex bead kits, EYRA makes multiplexing faster, simpler, and more reliable.

With EYRAplex magnetic bead assays, EYRA can quantify more than 30 analytes from a single sample – whether that’s serum, plasma, or cell culture supernatant. This means less sample consumption, fewer runs, and richer datasets for every experiment.

At the core of EYRA’s precision is the RAWsphere image analysis algorithm. It identifies each bead, links it to the correct analyte, and quantifies the PE signal with high resolution. Whether you’re measuring six cytokines or a full 30+ panel, RAWsphere ensures your multiplex data is accurate and reproducible.

EYRA is built around a completely flow-free design. No sheath fluid, priming, waste handling or blocked probes.

Instead of pushing samples through fluidics, EYRA uses confocal microscopy to image settled magnetic beads directly in the wells of a 96-well plate. Each bead carries a unique fluorescent dye signature for identification, while analyte-bound PE-labelled antibodies provide the quantitative signal.

The result? You insert your plate, select your assay in the intuitive Mabtech Opal™ software, and hit read. Fifteen minutes later, you have fully processed data – with your samples never leaving the wells.

Opal™ software comes preloaded with templates for every EYRAplex kit. Standards, plate layouts, and gating are handled automatically – so you spend less time setting up and more time on results.

Once the plate read is complete, results are exported directly into Excel, with options for bulk export if you’re working on large studies or multiple plates. No manual reformatting. No data wrangling headaches.

Because EYRA is fluidics-free, there’s no daily calibration or cleaning. No flushing, no wasted consumables, and no time lost to instrument downtime. It’s genuinely a plug-and-play experience – switch it on, run your plate, and walk away with your data.

The Mabtech EYRA isn’t just another multiplex platform – it’s multiplexing reimagined. By removing fluidics and harnessing high-resolution confocal imaging, EYRA delivers:

• High-plex capacity: 30+ analytes per well
• Fast turnaround: ~15 minutes per plate
• No maintenance: no daily cleaning or calibration
• Accurate, reproducible results: powered by RAWsphere analysis

For labs looking to streamline their workflow without sacrificing data quality, EYRA offers a fresh, frustration-free alternative to traditional flow-based systems.

Until next time… happy experimenting!

Joe Roberts, PhD
Product Manager
Millennium Science

Selecting the best ELISA kit for your research isn’t always straightforward. With so many options available, researchers need to ensure their chosen kit delivers reliable, reproducible, and biologically relevant results. The most critical factor? Antibody validation. Poorly validated antibodies can compromise sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility – leading to wasted time and research funds.

At the core of any ELISA are the antibody pairs it’s built from. Inconsistent or poorly characterised antibodies are one of the leading causes of failed assays and irreproducible results. In fact, antibody validation has been a major focus in the scientific community since 2016, when the International Working Group on Antibody Validation proposed five “pillars” for antibody validation in research【Nature Methods†】.

Many leading suppliers now adopt rigorous validation strategies. For example:

• Cloud-Clone applies CRISPR/Cas9 knock-out cell lines to confirm antibody specificity.
• Rockland contributed to shaping global guidelines on antibody validation.

Choosing ELISAs from suppliers that embrace these validation practices gives confidence in your results.

Sensitivity is crucial for identifying native, correctly folded proteins in complex biological samples. Poor sensitivity often stems from antibodies raised against recombinant proteins or short synthetic peptides, which may lack proper folding or post-translational modifications.

Specificity ensures antibodies bind only the target antigen. Problems like cross-reactivity (binding to similar but unintended proteins) or interference (other sample substances blocking antibody binding) can cause false positives.

Reliable results require reproducibility. Reputable manufacturers perform lot-to-lot validation, comparing new antibody lots against previous batches to maintain consistent performance.

When choosing the best ELISA kit, focus on antibody validation, sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility. Selecting kits from suppliers committed to rigorous validation standards not only safeguards your data but also maximises research productivity.

At Millennium Science, we work with suppliers leading the way in antibody standardisation and ELISA validation. Whether you’re studying cytokines, growth factors, or disease biomarkers, we can help you find the right kit for your target.

👉 Contact us to explore validated ELISA kits for your research needs.

In this article, we share 10 essential cell culture contamination tips to help you safeguard your cultures and protect your work.

Mycoplasma contamination silently affects 15–35% of continuous cell cultures worldwide, undermining research reliability and wasting time and resources. Unlike other contaminants, mycoplasma is too small to detect under a microscope, can pass through standard filtration, and is resistant to many antibiotics. Preventing mycoplasma is critical for reproducibility and confidence in results.

Good aseptic technique is your first defence. Consistent practices – such as hand hygiene, sterilising equipment, and minimising culture exposure – help reduce contamination risk.

Routine testing is essential. Kits such as MycoStrip provide rapid and reliable detection of mycoplasma, ensuring issues are caught before they compromise experiments.

Always isolate and test new cell lines before introducing them to your main laboratory environment. This step prevents cross-contamination and protects existing cultures.

Use filtration with appropriately sized pores to eliminate potential contaminants in culture media and reagents.

Surprisingly, 80% of lab staff carry mycoplasma. Talking or sneezing over cells can spread contamination, so keep lids closed and conversations outside the hood.

Mouth pipetting can introduce mycoplasma species such as M. orale. Always use proper pipettes – your cells (and lab safety officer) will thank you.

Regular cleaning of biosafety cabinets, incubators, and other workspaces prevents contamination from building up in the lab environment.

Well-trained staff are less likely to make mistakes that lead to contamination. Invest in training for all team members handling cultures.

Preventative antibiotic cocktails, such as those from InvivoGen, provide an additional safeguard when working with primary cells or cloning, where contamination risks are high.

Always request certification from suppliers confirming that cell lines are free from mycoplasma contamination before introducing them into your workflow.

By adopting strict aseptic practices, regular mycoplasma testing, and preventive measures, you can dramatically reduce the risk of contamination. Keeping your cultures clean ensures reliable results, saves time, and prevents costly experimental setbacks.

Download this Practical Guide to Understanding Cell Culture Contamination e-book for in-depth insights and strategies.

When it comes to measuring proteins such as cytokines, antibodies, or growth factors, there’s no shortage of options. ELISA, ELISpot, and FluoroSpot all have important roles to play. While each assay relies on antibody-based detection, knowing which one to use (and when) can mean the difference between simply collecting data and gaining real insight.

As a Product Manager at Millennium Science, I speak with researchers every day who are deciding between these techniques. In this blog we will explore each assay to help you spot the difference and help you choose the right assay for your next experiment.

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is one of the most widely used immunoassays for detecting and quantifying soluble proteins, such as cytokines, antibodies, and hormones, in serum, plasma, or cell culture supernatants. It’s robust, scalable, and ideal for high-throughput analysis when you need accurate, reproducible concentration data.

How it works (Sandwich ELISA):
A capture antibody is coated onto a high-binding plate and binds the target protein in your sample. A biotinylated detection antibody binds a different epitope, followed by a streptavidin–enzyme conjugate. Addition of a colourimetric substrate produces a measurable signal proportional to protein concentration.

Why researchers choose it:

• Delivers quantitative results (e.g., pg/ml or ng/ml)
• Compatible with high-throughput and automation
• Well-established, with widely available equipment
• Ideal for comparative analysis across multiple samples

Limitations:

• No information on the number or type of cells producing the protein
• Sensitivity can be lower than single-cell assays

ELISpot (Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSpot) detects and counts cells that secrete a specific protein. It’s particularly valuable when studying immune responses where the frequency of antigen-specific T or B cells is low – for example in vaccine research, oncology, and autoimmune disease studies.

How it works:
Live immune cells are added to a PVDF plate pre-coated with a capture antibody. When stimulated, the cells secrete the target protein, which is immediately bound near the cell. After washing away cells, a detection antibody and enzyme conjugate are added. A precipitating substrate forms a visible spot at each secretion site – each spot representing a single responding cell.

Why it stands out:

• Extremely sensitive – can detect one responder cell in >100,000
• Functional readout of immune activity
• Ideal for rare antigen-specific responses
• Widely used in T-cell response monitoring, vaccine trials, allergy research, and immuno-oncology

Pairing with Mabtech’s ASTOR2 automated ELISpot reader delivers rapid, high-precision spot counting with consistent, reproducible results across entire assay plates, and when used with Mabtech monoclonal antibody pairs and ready-to-use ELISpot kits, ensures reliable performance across species and sample types.

FluoroSpot builds on the ELISpot principle but uses fluorescently labelled detection antibodies to identify multiple proteins secreted by the same cell – typically 2-4 proteins. This allows you to measure not just whether a cell responds, but how it responds.

Why it’s powerful:

• Detects polyfunctionality – cells secreting multiple cytokines
• High sensitivity with low background
• Enables simultaneous detection of different functional subsets
• Excellent for vaccine research, infectious disease, and cancer immunotherapy

Pairing with Mabtech’s IRIS2 ELISpot, FluoroSpot and FociSpot reader enables precise, high-resolution spot detection across multiple fluorescence channels.

• ELISA → When you want to know how much protein is present in a sample.
• ELISpot → When you need to know how many cells are producing a protein.
• FluoroSpot → When you need to know which protein a cell is producing, and whether it’s producing more than one at the same time.

In many projects, using ELISA and ELISpot/FluoroSpot together can give the clearest picture — combining quantitative bulk measurements with functional single-cell insights.

If you’d like help selecting the right assay for your research, get in touch with our team at Millennium Science. We’re local experts, and Mabtech’s range covers everything from research use to clinical-grade applications.

Until next time… happy experimenting!

Joe Roberts, PhD
Product Manager
Millennium Science

What happens when you mix Labradors, sausage dogs, Irish wolfhounds and a dash of Siberian husky fluff with spreadsheets and science? Magic, apparently. On Tuesday, July 8th, Millennium Science opened its doors (and hearts) to a pack of paws for Bring Your Dog to Work Day, and it was pawsitively 🐾 wonderful. From professional pet portraits to gourmet dog jambalaya, it was a celebration of tails, treats, and top-tier company culture.

📸 Pet Portraits with a Pro 

We kicked things off with a professional pet photographer who captured each pup in their best light. There were solo glamour shots, action shots, and – our crowning achievement – a group photo! Herding cats might be hard, but coordinating a team of dogs to pose together? That’s next-level project management.

🍖 Canine Fine Dining 

Lunch was no ordinary kibble situation. Our very own CEO Alex Szabo rolled out his signature dog jambalaya, and it was a gastronomic event for the ages (if you ask the dogs, anyway). Five-star tail wags all round.

🐕 Speed Dating, Dog Style

Let’s face it: dogs invented speed dating. Every hallway stroll turned into a social event. We saw new friendships, unexpected tail-wags, and some solid interspecies networking.

🦴 Treats, Walks & All the Love

Throughout the day, the pups enjoyed scenic walks, an abundance of pats, and doggy bags of treats. Meanwhile, the humans enjoyed what was arguably the most serotonin-boosting Tuesday of the year.

Yes, it was adorable. But Bring Your Dog to Work Day was more than just a flurry of floppy ears and furry faces – it was a reflection of the culture we live every day at Millennium Science.

Dogs are core team members here. Our Company Morale Officers are welcome in the office any day of the week, happily lounging under desks or offering cuddles to anyone. In fact, our official company mascot is none other than Lincoln, our CEO’s beloved chocolate Labrador, and they quite possibly the most popular member of the senior leadership team.

Whether you’re here for the science or the snuggles, there’s no doubt: Millennium Science is a genuinely fantastic place to work.

Pictured: Lincoln Szabo, our company mascot.

With 12 dogs, countless treats, one gourmet lunch, and a gallery of professional pet portraits, our Bring Your Dog to Work Day was a howling success, proving once again that the culture at Millennium Science is one-of-a-kind — just like our furry coworkers.

📣 Want to see more of our culture in action? 
🐾 Follow us on LinkedIn, BlueSky or X
🚀 Watch our company video 

Join the Pack – Careers at Millennium Science Page 

The Agilent BioTek LogPhase™ 600 Microbiology Reader is a high-performance solution for labs studying microbial growth and metabolism. Purpose-built to support real-time, kinetic analysis of bacteria and yeast cultures, the LogPhase 600 enables the simultaneous monitoring of microbial growth curves across up to four standard 96-well microplates – boosting throughput and consistency for microbiology applications.

Designed specifically for microbial assays, the LogPhase 600 features robust shaking and sensor-driven temperature control, which are essential for optimal bacterial and yeast cell growth. The integrated orbital shaking mechanism keeps microbial cultures in suspension, promoting uniform growth across all wells.

Advanced temperature regulation ensures uniform heating throughout the instrument, eliminating edge effects and minimising evaporation. A carefully engineered top-to-bottom temperature gradient prevents condensation on sealed plates – reducing light scatter and ensuring accurate optical density (OD) measurements.

Whether you’re performing bacterial growth curve analysis or extended kinetic microbial studies, the LogPhase 600 provides reproducible results across replicates. Its stable environment makes it ideal for long-term microbial monitoring, delivering high-quality data for even the most demanding experimental conditions.

The LogPhase 600 is controlled via a user-friendly app that simplifies data acquisition and analysis across multiple microplates. Designed with microbiologists in mind, the software allows users to:

• Start using the instrument with minimal training

• View multiplate data simultaneously

• Automatically calculate key growth parameters like Lag time, Maximum growth rate (OD/min) and Time to stationary phase

This makes it easy to integrate the instrument into both academic and industrial lab workflows.

With its four-plate capacity, the LogPhase 600 delivers higher throughput than single-plate readers – ideal for labs running large-scale experiments. Common research areas include:

• Bacterial and yeast growth assays

• Algal growth studies

• Antimicrobial resistance research

• Biofuel production monitoring

• Food and beverage microbiology testing

For researchers seeking a dedicated microbiology plate reader that delivers accuracy, scalability, and ease of use, the LogPhase 600 offers an unmatched combination of throughput, data quality, and application-specific performance. Whether you’re monitoring bacterial growth under various conditions or conducting resistance assays, the LogPhase 600 ensures your data is consistent and actionable.

If you have a question or would like pricing for a LogPhase 600 simply email customerservice@mscience.com.au.

Recently, Dr  Michael Smout from James Cook University, provided an insightful webinar where he delved into his pioneering research on parasitic worms and their potential in advancing wound healing therapies. Central to his studies is the Agilent xCELLigence Real-Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) system, a cutting-edge technology that enables continuous, label-free monitoring of live cells. ​

Dr. Smout’s work focuses on the granulin protein secreted by parasitic worms, exploring its role in accelerating wound healing—a discovery that holds promise for treating chronic wounds, particularly in diabetic patients.

• Application of xCELLigence RTCA in monitoring cellular responses to parasitic proteins.​
• Insights into the therapeutic potential of parasite-derived compounds in wound healing.​
• Discussion on the integration of real-time cell analysis in parasitology research.

The Agilent xCELLigence RTCA system is a state-of-the-art platform that provides real-time, label-free analysis of cellular events. By measuring electrical impedance across microelectrodes integrated into the bottom of specialised plates, the system offers dynamic monitoring of cell proliferation, morphology, and viability. ​ Key features include:​

• Continuous, non-invasive monitoring of live cells.​
• High sensitivity and reproducibility in detecting cellular changes.​
• Versatility across various applications, including cytotoxicity, cell adhesion, and migration assays.​

This technology has been instrumental in advancing research across multiple disciplines, providing researchers with a deeper understanding of cellular behaviours in real-time.

Introducing 10x Genomics‘ Visium HD 3’, a novel assay for unbiased cross-species spatial gene expression profiling of fresh frozen tissue sections mounted on a standard glass slide. The Visium HD’s array has a gapless design that enables integration of unsupervised gene expression clustering data with microscope H&E images from the same tissue section, allowing precise profiling of finer anatomical features with high tissue coverage at single cell-scale resolution.

Furthermore, this novel reverse transcription-based assay generates cDNA products compatible with both short reads and long reads sequencing, extending its applications beyond gene expression analysis to enable immune profiling and the discovery of isoforms and novel transcripts on a spatial level.

Improve cell-type resolution with nuclei expansion–based cell segmentation available in Space Ranger version 4.0 software. Importantly, Space Ranger v4.0 now supports cell and nucleus segmentation with H&E images. So you can reprocess existing Visium HD data through the new Space Ranger pipeline to derive these nuclei and cell segmentation outputs alongside the square bins

1. Input a brightfield image of your H&E-stained tissue into the Space Ranger pipeline
2. The software performs nuclei detection and expansion
3. The Space Ranger pipeline outputs custom binning files viewable in Loupe Browser software

The new version can be found at: https://www.10xgenomics.com/support/software/space-ranger/latest

Some other notable features are:

• A new UMI-based registration algorithm for Visium HD and Visium HD 3′ data.
• You can now visualize and analyse Visium HD / Visium HD 3′ cell segmentation in Loupe Browser v9.

Learn more about the Visium HD 3’ assay in this introductory webinar, including a Q&A with product experts.