Title : Advancing biosafety in microbial sorting: A novel approach to containment and contamination prevention
Abstract:
Sorting of microorganisms and infectious materials presents significant biosafety challenges, including aerosol formation, contamination risks, and hazardous waste disposal. Traditional cell sorting methods rely on fluidic systems, which increase the likelihood of cross-contamination and pose risks to both personnel and instrument integrity. The need for a safer, more controlled approach to microbial sorting is essential, particularly in research and clinical laboratories handling pathogenic samples.
The MACSQuant® Tyto® Family of cell sorters addresses these challenges through its innovative, fully enclosed, disposable cartridge system. Unlike conventional sorters, where samples interact with fluidics and nozzles, the MACSQuant Tyto ensures complete containment of samples within a sealed environment, eliminating the risk of aerosol formation and minimizing hazardous waste. The unique closed-system design enhances biosafety without requiring additional containment measures, such as biosafety cabinets or costly laboratory modifications.
While traditional sorters require complex decontamination procedures and generate hazardous liquid waste, the MACSQuant Tyto significantly reduces these concerns. The only waste product is the disposable cartridge itself, simplifying waste management while reducing potential biohazard risks. Additionally, by eliminating the need for external sheath fluids, the system minimizes operational complexity and maintenance requirements.
Beyond safety, the MACSQuant Tyto offers gentle sorting capabilities, making it ideal for fragile microorganisms, including bacteria, yeast, delicate parasites, and sensitive infected cells. The absence of fluidic-based sorting prevents shear stress, thereby improving the viability and integrity of sorted samples. This makes it a valuable tool in infectious disease research, where sample preservation is critical for downstream applications.
The MACSQuant Tyto provides an unparalleled combination of biosafety, efficiency, and precision, making it a groundbreaking solution for microbial and infectious disease research. By mitigating the risks associated with traditional cell sorting methods, this technology ensures a safer and more effective approach to handling potentially infectious samples, ultimately advancing biosafety standards in microbiology and beyond.