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First-of-its-Kind Proteomics Device and Disposable Microplate When approached by a venture-backed life sciences company looking to leverage expertise in imaging mass spectrometry (IMS), MPR developed a new instrument enabling pharmaceutical and biotech companies to further their research and development efforts. MPR transferred a conceptualized proteomics laboratory device into a commercial bench-top instrument, capable of simultaneously and independently processing 96 mechanically and electrically isolated samples contained within disposable sample cartridges. Using MPR’s distinctive product development process of detailed engineering and industrial design, MPR identified and developed requirements for the instrument and the disposable cartridges and then developed a conceptual prototype for testing and evaluating both the device and the disposable cartridge. To develop the disposable cartridge/microplate, MPR deconstructed the protein separation system into its functional elements – sample loading, gel electrophoresis capture, and recovery – and then designed solutions for each of the elements. MPR constructed twelve identical prototype instruments and fifty cartridges for beta testing. MPR also developed the supply chain for the disposable cartridge/microplate capable of producing 10,000 units in 10 months. The system is equipped with a custom designed, ethernet-based software and a graphical user interface that allows for highly flexible, real-time operator interaction with the 96 separate channels of the instrument. Development of the unit from initial concept to operational prototype, production, and evaluation was eleven months. |
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