#USA #Cambridge #Spatial Biology #Hamamatsu Photonics #Vizgen

Vizgen and Hamamatsu Join Forces to Transform Spatial Biology Workflows

In a significant development within the life sciences sector, Vizgen, a leading company in spatial multi-omics, has announced a strategic alliance with Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., a pioneer in optical imaging technologies. This collaboration aims to streamline spatial biology research workflows by merging Vizgen's innovative assay portfolio with Hamamatsu's advanced imaging systems, specifically the MoxiePlex™ multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) platform.

Partnership Goals

The primary goal of this collaboration is to address common challenges faced in multiplex assay development. These challenges include lengthy validation processes and complex workflow integration that often impede the research progress. By integrating the MoxiePlex™ platform with Vizgen's high-quality reagents, researchers can enjoy a more efficient and seamless process, ultimately allowing them to concentrate on generating high-quality biological insights.

Hamamatsu’s Director of the Systems Division, Toshimichi Ishizuka, emphasized the importance of such partnerships in advancing the multiplex immunofluorescence field. He stated, “Integrating our hardware with Ultivue's versatile chemistry presents a solution that is not only powerful but also practical for real-world applications.” This statement encapsulates the collaboration's aim of bridging the gap between cutting-edge imaging technologies and their clinical relevance.

Features of the MoxiePlex™ Platform

The MoxiePlex™ system stands out in the market due to its ability to offer up to 9-color imaging with a high throughput capacity of processing up to 60 slides per run. This makes it particularly suited for high-volume labs that require rapid analysis without compromising quality. Coupled with Vizgen's InSituPlex® assays, which facilitate the quick deployment of customized research panels using pre-validated biomarkers, this partnership aims to significantly reduce time-to-data while ensuring exceptional specificity and reproducibility.

Enhancing Research Capabilities

Together, these technologies create a robust ecosystem that empowers research facilities to develop and refine multiplex assays with enhanced speed and confidence. The collaboration will initially target clinically relevant research areas, such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) specimens, utilizing the integrated mIF panels for significant advancements in understanding complex diseases.

Rob Carson, CEO of Vizgen, shared his enthusiasm regarding the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with Hamamatsu brings together two technology leaders with a shared vision for impact in translational research and beyond.” This union of expertise in imaging and assay engineering aims not only to provide rapid answers but to significantly contribute toward broader scientific endeavors.

Advancements in Spatial Biology

Vizgen remains at the forefront of spatial biology and multi-omics innovation with its proprietary MERFISH technology and MERSCOPE® platform, which facilitate in situ single-cell spatial genomics. Their tools, coupled with AI-driven STARVUE™ spatial image analysis technology, have already proven invaluable in contributing to deep biological insights and breakthroughs in various complex diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders and cancers.

On the other hand, Hamamatsu Photonics brings a wealth of expertise in photonics technology, particularly through their MoxiePlex™ system. This system was specifically designed to bridge the gap from research to clinical applications, focusing initially on immuno-oncology and expanding further into translational pathology.

Conclusion

Through this collaboration, both Vizgen and Hamamatsu are poised to make significant strides in spatial biology research. Their joint efforts, focusing on developing validated InSituPlex panels combined with the MoxiePlex system, represent a significant step toward enhancing the capabilities of clinical and translational research. As both companies continue to leverage their strengths, they are set to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of medical science, ultimately benefiting researchers and clinicians alike.