A Comprehensive Guide to Biacore Instruments: Features, Specifications, and Applications
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) allows the study of the functional properties of binding interactions and provides detailed kinetic information for a variety of molecular weights, including small molecules. This article highlights the various Biacore instrument platforms and their primary uses, from semi-automated systems designed for simple, flexible basic research to fully automated, high-throughput systems, and systems designed for operation in regulatory environments. The available sensor chip surfaces and fixation techniques are also discussed. The Biacore SPR biosensor can be used for a variety of analyses, including specificity, activity concentration measurements, kinetics, and affinity and thermodynamic parameters. The Biacore SPR biosensor measures real-time analysis of biospecific interactions without the use of labeled molecules and can be used for a variety of protein interaction assays. In this article, examples and suggestions for studying protein interactions with various molecules are provided.
Overview of Biacore Systems
SPR is a label-free biosensing technology that enables real-time monitoring of molecular interactions. This technique captures the binding and dissociation process between molecules and surface receptors by measuring the changes in surface plasma waves and is widely used in biomolecular interaction research and drug development. SPR technology is a leader and standard setter in the field of biomolecular interactions, providing unique insights into the interactions between proteins and other biomolecules. It could help scientists better understand the function of biomolecules, make better decisions, and increase productivity.
Biacore systems, developed by Cytiva (formerly GE Healthcare Life Sciences), are a suite of advanced analytical instruments designed for label-free, real-time analysis of molecular interactions. These systems utilize Surface Plasmon Resonance technology to provide detailed insights into the binding kinetics, affinity, and specificity of biomolecular interactions.
Biacore series systems are advanced analytical tools based on SPR technology, which are widely used in the study of biomolecular interactions. Biacore systems are available in several models to meet different research needs.
Biacore 3000
The Biacore 3000 is a classic surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) analyzer from Cytiva (formerly GE Healthcare Life Sciences) designed for high-precision molecular interaction studies. Although it has been replaced by newer models such as the Biacore T200 and Biacore 8K, the Biacore 3000 is still favored by many researchers for its stability, reliability, and wide range of application areas.
Main features
High sensitivity: Can detect the interaction between low molecular weight compounds and low concentration analytes, with the lowest detection limit up to pg/mm².
Wide kinetic range: A wide range of binding rate constants (ka) and dissociation rate constants (kd) can be measured for a wide range of interactions from fast to slow.
Multiple analysis: Up to four flow cells can be analyzed independently or in series simultaneously to improve throughput and experimental efficiency.
Flexible experimental design: Multiple experimental modes are available, including single-cycle kinetics, multi-cycle kinetics, binding/dissociation, concentration analysis, and competitive analysis.
Powerful data analysis capabilities: The Biacore 3000 control software provides comprehensive data analysis tools, including kinetic fitting, affinity calculation, and concentration determination.
System composition
Biacore 3000 instrument host、Biacore 3000 control software、Sensor chip (various types available)、Buffers and reagents、Optional accessories(automatic sampler, temperature control module, etc)
Biacore T200
It is used for high sensitivity and high-resolution analysis of complex biological samples and is widely used in protein-protein and protein-small molecule interaction studies. The instrument can be used to study molecular interactions in real time and without labels. Known for its superior sensitivity, flexibility and ease of use, it is ideal for detailed dynamic analysis.
Figure 1: T200 instrument surface plasmon resonance system. (fig from Cytiva)
Main features
Ultra-high sensitivity: It can detect the interaction between low molecular weight compounds and low concentration analytes, with the lowest detection limit up to pg/mm².
Wide kinetic range: A wide range of binding rate constants (ka) and dissociation rate constants (kd) can be measured for a wide range of interactions from fast to slow.
Multiple analysis: Up to four flow cells can be analyzed independently or in series simultaneously to improve throughput and experimental efficiency.
Flexible experimental design: Multiple experimental modes are available, including single-cycle kinetics, multi-cycle kinetics, binding/dissociation, concentration analysis, and competitive analysis.
Intuitive software interface: The Biacore T200 control software is user-friendly and easy to use, making it easy for even newcomers to get started.
Automation function: An automatic sampler can be selected to achieve unattended automatic operation, improve experimental efficiency and data consistency.
System composition
Biacore T200 instrument host、Biacore T200 control software、Sensor chip (various types available)、Buffers and reagents、Optional accessories(automatic sampler, temperature control module, etc)
Biacore 8K
It provides a high-resolution, multi-channel, efficient analysis platform for drug discovery and large-scale screening, suitable for laboratories requiring high-throughput experiments.
Figure 2: 8K instrument surface plasmon resonance system. (fig from Cytiva)
Main features
High throughput: Up to eight flow cells are supported for simultaneous independent or series analysis, significantly increasing throughput and experimental efficiency.
High sensitivity: Can detect the interaction between low molecular weight compounds and low concentration analytes, with the lowest detection limit up to pg/mm².
Wide kinetic range: A wide range of binding rate constants (ka) and dissociation rate constants (kd) can be measured for a wide range of interactions from fast to slow.
Flexible experimental design: Multiple experimental modes are available, including single-cycle kinetics, multi-cycle kinetics, binding/dissociation, concentration analysis, and competitive analysis.
Automation function: Automatic sampler and robotic arm can be selected to achieve unattended automatic operation and improve experimental efficiency and data consistency.
Intuitive software interface: The Biacore 8K control software is user-friendly and easy to use, making it easy for even newcomers to get started.
System composition
Biacore 8K instrument host, Biacore 8K control software, sensor chip (multiple types available), buffer and reagents, optional accessories (automatic sampler, robotic arm, temperature control module, etc.)
Biacore S200
Suitable for basic affinity and kinetic studies with high sensitivity, suitable for academic research and small and medium-sized laboratories.
Figure 3: S200 instrument surface plasmon resonance system. (fig from Cytiva)
Main features
Ultra-high sensitivity: Can detect the interaction between low molecular weight compounds and low concentration analytes, with the lowest detection limit up to pg/mm².
Wide kinetic range: A wide range of binding rate constants (ka) and dissociation rate constants (kd) can be measured for a wide range of interactions from fast to slow.
Multiple analysis: Up to four flow cells can be analyzed independently or in series simultaneously to improve throughput and experimental efficiency.
Flexible experimental design: Multiple experimental modes are available, including single-cycle kinetics, multi-cycle kinetics, binding/dissociation, concentration analysis and competitive analysis.
Intuitive software interface: The Biacore S200 control software is user-friendly and easy to use, making it easy for even newcomers to get started.
Automation function: Automatic sampler can be selected to achieve unattended automatic operation, improve experimental efficiency and data consistency.
System composition
Biacore S200 instrument host, Biacore S200 control software, sensor chip (multiple types available), buffer and reagents, optional accessories (automatic sampler, robotic arm, temperature control module, etc.)
Contact us to learn more about Biacore technology and SPR services to support your research and drug discovery efforts.
Detailed Specifications
The specific specifications and performance characteristics of each Biacore instrument vary to meet different research needs.
Sensitivity
Biacore T200 and Biacore S200 excel in sensitivity and are suitable for the analysis of low concentrations of biomolecules. Biacore 8K provides excellent performance in high-throughput experiments and can handle large numbers of samples.
Throughput
Biacore 8K is designed for high-throughput screening and can analyze multiple samples simultaneously, greatly improving experimental efficiency. The Biacore 3000 is the preferred model for balancing sensitivity and flux, making it suitable for mid-sized laboratories.
Application
Biacore T200 is suitable for complex kinetic analysis, especially in the study of protein and small molecule interaction; Biacore 3000 is widely used in antibody affinity research and drug development. Biacore S200 is suitable for basic research, especially in protein-protein interactions.
Comparing Biacore 8K vs. Biacore T200
The Biacore 8K and Biacore T200 are two very popular models in the Biacore family, each with its own unique advantages.
Biacore 8K
Suitable for large-scale screening and high-throughput analysis, has multiple sensor channels and can handle multiple experiments simultaneously. Ideal for laboratories that require fast, efficient experimental results, such as drug discovery and large-scale antibody screening.
Biacore T200
With its high sensitivity and resolution, it is suitable for the study of more refined protein-small molecule and protein-protein interactions. The T200 is the first choice for laboratories that care about the accuracy and dynamics of experimental data.
Choosing the Right Biacore Instrument
The choice of the right Biacore instrument is based on the specific research needs. Here are a few key considerations.
Research objectives
If the research objective is high-throughput screening or large-scale sample analysis, Biacore 8K is an ideal choice. If you need to perform fine kinetic analysis or the interaction of small and large molecules, the Biacore T200 is better suited.
Sensitivity requirements
Biacore T200 and Biacore S200 have significant advantages in sensitivity and are suitable for low-concentration analysis, while Biacore 8K performs better in high-throughput experiments.
Laboratory size and budget
The Biacore S200 and Biacore 3000 are suitable for small and medium-sized laboratories with limited budgets and provide cost-effective solutions. Large research institutions or drug development companies are more likely to choose Biacore 8K to meet the needs of large-scale, high-frequency trials.
We offer a full range of SPR services based on Biacore technology to help you delve deeper into molecular interactions and dynamics. Our professional team will recommend the right Biacore instrument model according to your needs, and provide you with customized experimental design and data analysis services.
Table 1 Biacore instrument feature comparison
| Product | Association rate (ka) | Dissociation rate (kd) | Concentration limit of detection (LOD) | Sample/reagent capacity |
| Biacore T200 | Protein:103~3×109 M-1s-1 Molecule:103~5×107 M-1s-1 |
10-5~1 s-1 | > 1 pM | 1×96-well or 384-well microplates and up to 33 reagent tubes or 78 sample and reagent tubes |
| Biacore 8K | Protein: < 109 M-1s-1 | 10-6~0.5 s-1 | ≥ 1 pM | 4 × 96- or 384-hole microplates, ordinary holes and deep holes |
| Biacore S200 | Protein:103~3 × 109 M-1s Micromolecule:103~5×107 M-1s-1 |
10-5~2 s-1 | > 1 pM | 1 × 96-well or 384-well microplates and up to 33 reagent tubes or 78 sample and reagent tubes |
| Biacore 3000 | Protein:103 M⁻¹s⁻¹ ~ 3×10⁹ M⁻¹s⁻¹ Molecule:103 M⁻¹s⁻¹ ~ 5×10⁷ M⁻¹s⁻¹ |
10-5~1 s-1 | > 1 pM | Support 1 × 96 or 384 well microplates, suitable for large-scale screening experiments. |
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References
- Jason-Moller L, Murphy M, Bruno J. Overview of Biacore systems and their applications. Curr Protoc Protein Sci. 2006; Chapter 19: doi:10.1002/0471140864.ps1913s45
- Wang X, Wu X, Zhang A, et al. Targeting the PDGF-B/PDGFR-β Interface with Destruxin A5 to Selectively Block PDGF-BB/PDGFR-ββ Signaling and Attenuate Liver Fibrosis. EBioMedicine. 2016; 7:146-156. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2016.03.042
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