Agilent Real-Time Cell Analyzer (RTCA) Reviews

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) introduced a multimode real-time cell analyzer (RTCA)—the first of its kind—combining the best of non-invasive biosensor measurement with live cell imaging.

“The xCELLigence RTCA eSight will revolutionize cell analysis in life science research,” said Todd Christian, Agilent vice president, and general manager of the company’s Cell Analysis Division. “Cells are continuously monitored through biosensors and imaging at predefined temporal resolutions for days or weeks, in a well-controlled, physiologically relevant environment. With one experiment, scientists can now get two vantage points into cell health and their responses to a variety of chemical or biological manipulations, giving them greater confidence in the data they collect.”

The new instrument builds on the success of the xCELLigence biosensor technology, which Agilent obtained through its acquisition of ACEA Biosciences late last year.

“The xCELLigence RTCA eSight represents the frontier of cell analysis technology by providing unparalleled information with deep biological insights into cellular function,” said Xiaobo Wang, Ph.D., who joined Agilent from ACEA, as general manager of the Flow Cytometry and Real-Time Cell Analysis Business. “The eSight is the latest addition to Agilent’s cell analysis portfolio, exemplifying our commitment to popularizing live cell, kinetic analysis in applications across a wide spectrum of research areas including cell biology, immunology, immuno-oncology, and immunotherapy.”

Key Features

The addition of the xCELLigence eSight real-time cell analyzer demonstrates Agilent’s commitment to continuing to provide trusted solutions for life science laboratories around the world.

The Agilent xCELLigence Real-Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) system is an advanced tool designed to observe cell health, function, and behavior in real time without the need for labels. It uses impedance technology to continuously collect precise data, offering insights into how cells react to various conditions and stimuli.

Monitors cell health, adhesion, morphology, proliferation, and cytolysis in primary or native cells alone or in co-culture providing unprecedented insight into cellular mechanisms and functionality.

Supports three fluorescence channels, a plethora of well-plate formats, an array of reporter reagents, and flexible user-defined schedules.

Reads a 96-well plate in 15 seconds.

Label-Free Monitoring: This system utilizes impedance technology to track cellular activities without relying on labels, providing a non-invasive and continuous method for analysis.

High Throughput Capacity: The RTCA MP model can handle up to six 96-well plates at once, making it ideal for large-scale experiments and quick data gathering.

Wide Range of Applications: The system supports diverse assays such as cell growth, cytotoxicity testing, migration studies, and assessments for drug toxicity, making it adaptable to various research needs.

Pros of Agilent Real-Time Cell Analyzer (RTCA)

Continuous Data Capture: The ability to track cells in real time offers researchers a dynamic view of cell behavior as it evolves, leading to deeper insights.

Accurate and Reproducible Results: With its impedance-based monitoring, the system delivers reliable, high-precision data, improving the consistency of experimental outcomes.

Easy-to-Use Software: The intuitive software simplifies the process of setting up assays and analyzing results, reducing the learning curve for new users.

Cons of Agilent Real-Time Cell Analyzer (RTCA)

High Cost: The initial cost and ongoing maintenance of the system could be a significant consideration for smaller labs with limited budgets.

Specialized Consumables Required: The system requires specific plates and other consumables, which may add additional costs for long-term operation.

Conclusion

The Agilent xCELLigence RTCA system is a versatile and efficient tool for real-time, label-free monitoring of cell activity. Its ability to handle a variety of assays and provide high-quality, reproducible data makes it a valuable asset for researchers in the life sciences field, although the cost and specialized needs may limit its accessibility for some.