Bio-Rad unveils new chromatography systems

Bio-Rad Laboratories has unveiled its new suite of protein purification systems, which enables users to modify their capability based on the user's changing requirements.

The NGC medium pressure modular chromatography systems will be launched in the coming weeks alongside a new suite of plug-and-play modules that Bio-Rad says will enable researchers to expand the system's capabilities.

These medium pressure chromatography systems are the first of their kind, according to the company, which is a multinational manufacturer and distributor of life science research and clinical diagnostic products.

Richard Lee, Bio-Rad marketing manager for Laboratory Chromatography Products, Life Science Group, commented: "Customers have been extensively involved in the development of the NGC systems and we are pleased to see how well the instruments have performed in their labs."

The various functions of the NGC system are controlled by Bio-Rad's ChromLab software, which includes instrument control, method development, real-time monitoring, chromatogram comparison and peak analysis.

The instrument controls have been designed around a novel fluidics scheme interface that is fully customisable, according to the company, which noted that software can provide real-time fluidics path and module status to guarantee accuracy.

Many components of the fluidics scheme can be controlled on-the-go to ensure optimal separation conditions, while the systems themselves can be controlled using the attached touchscreen interface, which offers the same level of control flexibility without the need for a computer adjacent to the system, explained Kamni Vijay, Bio-Rad division marketing manager for the Protein Function Division, Life Science Group.

"The NGC Chromatography platform is an intuitive and flexible system that's simple to customise and effortless to use," he explained.

"Protein purification can be a challenging for many researchers, but by using the NGC family of medium pressure modular chromatography systems, this step can be completed more quickly and efficiently."

Chris Fraser, assistant professor at UC Davis, California, said he has tested the new suite and found the ease of use was perfect for a mix of grad and undergrad students.

"This means less time spent training and more time spent purifying," Mr Fraser concluded.

Posted by Fiona Griffiths