2010 R&D 100 Winner
For many biological, omics, and nanotechnology research studies, cost-effective screening tools for live cell viability are a must. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Wash., and Simplex Scientific LLC, Middletown, Wis., developed IncubATR—The Live-Cell Monitor to provide a live-cell environment for attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy study of the effects of stimuli on living cellular structure in real time.
The IncubATR controls key parameters for cell viability including temperature at 37°C, humidity (100%), and CO2 content (5%). Its trough-shaped container holds the medium for growing live cells on an ATR substrate, which is set in the sample well and encased in an anodized carbon-coated aluminum container with a viewing window. In operation, the IncubATR is placed inside an FTIR spectrometer with growth reagents and culture medium. In the controlled environment established, live cells can be maintained and observed for more than 48 hours. IR light enters from below the ATR substrate and is directed to the detector without disturbing the cells.
Technology
Live-cell incubator for FTIR spectroscopy
Developers
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Simplex Scientific LLC
Development Team
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| (l-r): Brian Riley, R. Shane Addleman, SK Sundaram, Thomas Weber, Colette Sacksteder, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory |
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| John Peterman, Simplex Scientific LLC |
The IncubATR—the Live-Cell Monitor Development Team:
R. Shane Addleman, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
John W. Peterman, Simplex Scientific LLC
Brian J Riley, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Colette A. Sacksteder, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
S.K.Sundaram, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Thomas J. Weber, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
