MetaXpress® High-Content Image Acquisition and Analysis Software by Molecular Devices is a comprehensive, integrated solution designed for high-content screening (HCS) infrastructure. It serves as the core platform for controlling image acquisition on ImageXpress HCS systems and for performing powerful, elegant image analysis.
Key Features and Capabilities
The software provides a tightly orchestrated workflow from image capture to data management, built on the foundation of the industry-leading MetaMorph® Software. It is optimized for high-throughput environments and complex biological questions, including 3D cell models.
- 2D and 3D Analysis: Supports acquisition and volumetric analysis of complex samples like spheroids, microtissues, cells in a 3D matrix, and small organisms.
- Modular Toolbox: Features a portfolio of turnkey application modules for common HCS assays, such as Micronuclei, Neurite Outgrowth, Angiogenesis Tube Formation, Mitotic Index, and Cell Cycle.
- Custom Module Editor (CME): An interactive, step-by-step editor that allows users to create custom, multi-step analysis routines for proprietary or challenging assays, including object-within-object identification and morphometric classifiers.
- Intelligent Segmentation: Application modules utilize proprietary adaptive background correction algorithms for robust image segmentation on both label-free and fluorescently labeled images.
- High-Speed Processing: The optional MetaXpress PowerCore™ software component leverages parallel processing across multiple clients/servers to dramatically accelerate image analysis speed (up to 40x faster) in high-throughput environments.
- Data Management: Includes MDCStore™ Data Manager for organizing images, experimental information, and analysis data in a secure, scalable database (Microsoft SQL Server or Oracle).
Target Users and Use Cases
MetaXpress is primarily targeted at research institutions, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology companies engaged in drug discovery and basic research. Its use cases include:
- High-Content Screening (HCS)
- 3D Cell Model Quantification (Organoids, Spheroids)
- Live Cell Imaging and Kinetic Assays
- Cell Painting and Multiplexed Phenotypic Screens
- Compound Screening and Toxicity Assays
- Cellular Imaging and Analysis for various biological functions.