IFA Automation

Typical Automated IFA Workflow

One of the features of the Beeline range is its flexible software. This enables us to configure it to work closely to the way you already work and often to improve on the workflow. The following example gives you an idea of all of the main steps involved but is by no means an exhaustive or definitive list of the possible modes of operation.

1. Importing of sample test requests and Worklist Creation

The starting point of any test is of course the samples and their associated test requests. Typically, screening requests originate from an LIS and these are imported electronically into the Beeline PC using its flexible Import Module. Alternatively, these are entered manually from a locally generated worksheet.

The Beeline Worklist shows graphically the type of slides and consumables required to complete the batch and can be edited to minimise wasteage. oroptimise the use of the instrument. In addition, Titre requests can also be imported from automated microscope imaging systems, such as Image Navigator*, for those samples requiring tests at further dilution ratios. Alternatively, these can of course simply be entered manually.

2. Processing an Automated IFA Batch

Once a Worklist is assigned to be processed, the User is prompted to load up reagents and other consumables as required by the Worklist:

1. Slides and sample tubes are identified automatically using an on-board barcode reader

2. Samples are diluted in accordance to the requests in the Worklist

3. Samples are pipetted onto the “target” slides or microwell plates as appropriate

4. Targets are incubated either at ambient or at 37 degrees*

5. Slides/Wells are washed when primary incubation has been completed

6. Conjugate is added

7. Slides/Wells are incubated either at ambient or at 37 degrees*

8. Slides/Wells are washed when secondary incubation has been completed

9. Processing data is exported and printed reports generated if required

3. Final Stages

Coverslipping is performed manually and slides are then read on an automated microscope such as the Image Navigator from Immunconcepts. If using such an automated microscope the data is imported from the Beeline and combined with the slide results to enable a full printed or electronic report to be generated.