SRU Biosystems - BIND Reader >> EXPLORER

BIND Readers >> EXPLORER

The BIND® EXPLORER is a small footprint, plate-based reader for quantitative, label-free measurements of a variety of biomolecular interactions. BIND® enables maximum application flexibility ranging from biochemical binding assays to complex cellular assays including primary cell, GPCR, ion channel and cell adhesion assays. The EXPLORER’s ability to collect kinetic data provides an additional layer of information that is useful in determining binding characteristics, mechanisms of action or even pathway usage upon GPCR activation.

EXPLORER Features

96-well read capability for moderate throughput environments
Fully-compatible with biochemical & cell-based applications
Kinetic & endpoint measurements produce information-rich data
Real-time data acquisition & viewing
Optional TURBO read mode enable faster kinetic readings
Upgradeable to higher density biosensor formats

Information-rich Kinetic Data

A. GPCR Subunit Characterization

B. Gi-coupled GPCR	C. Dual-coupled GPCR

Figure 1 - A). Endogenous GPCRs in HEK293 cells were incubated with a variety of known
natural ligands and BIND responses measured over time. B). Cells were treated with ligand
± pertusis toxin (PTX). C). Cells were treated with S1P ligand ± Rho inhibitor ± PTX.

The BIND EXPLORER produces information-rich, kinetic data. For example, individual Gα subunits display distinct temporal signatures that can be used to decipher GPCR subunit usage (fig. 1A). This unique attribute enables detection and assessment of dually-coupled receptors and identification of pathway switching. The temporal signatures of a GPCR ligand (fig. 1B) in the presence and absence of PTX, a known Gi signal inhibitor, indicate this ligand signals via Gi coupling. In contrast, the S1P ligand (fig. 1C) induces G12/13 signaling as suggested by the loss of that signature upon addition of a Rho-kinase inhibitor. Moreover, the responses shift to new temporal signatures rather than losing responsiveness in the presence of PTX or a Rho inhibitor, indicating that S1P can signal via several Gα subunits. This critical information goes undetected using traditional assays that measure a single pathway readout such as cAMP or Ca++ flux.

Primary Cell Assays

Figure 2 - Various numbers of human cortical neurons were stimulated with Noradrenaline and BIND responses measured. Data courtesy of GSK.

The high degree of BIND® sensitivity enables the use of endogenous receptor systems, low cell numbers per well and is fully compatible with adherent and non-adherent primary cells. In addition, BIND is a non-destructive technology that allows for the re-use of precious primary cells following assay completion.

Unmatched Detection Times Using SRU’s
TURBO Read Mode

The EXPLORER is available with an optional TURBO read mode that decreases read times to <10 seconds for a 96-well Biosensors. Quick read times enable shorter interval kinetic measurements. The TURBO read mode is available at the time of purchase or as an in-field upgrade.

SRU’s EMS Software: Powerful User-Interface

All BIND Readers are supplied with SRU’s Experiment Management System (EMS) software. EMS provides complete control of assay parameters through an easy-to-use, intuitive interface and allows for visualization, export and secure storage of all data. Data can be exported from EMS using a custom export wizard in several file formats for maximum flexibility.

EMS User Interface

EMS Data Export Wizard

EXPLORER Specifications

Compatible plates:	All 96-well BIND^® Biosensor microplates
Read Time:	96-well in 30 seconds
TURBO Read Times:	96-well in 8 seconds
Operating Temperature Range:	4°C to 37°C
Dimensions:	15.5 in. (W) x 17.6 (D) x 14 in. (H)
Weight:	68 lbs.
Computer:	Computer and monitor included