Preparing multicolor antibody cocktails for flow cytometry is a critical yet time-consuming step that traditionally relies on meticulous manual pipetting. The Pluto Workstation by Curiox enables fully automated antibody cocktailing for flow cytometry. It replaces manual pipetting by automatically generating a run-ready protocol, enabling walkaway automation. The liquid handler minimizes human error, reduces reagent waste, and improves panel reproducibility—especially for high-parameter experiments.
With built-in liquid-level detection, Pluto ensures every reagent is delivered correctly—for consistent, reproducible panels, every time. Starting at $50K.
Curiox developed the Pluto Workstation to overcome the challenges of antibody cocktail preparation. Pluto Workstation automates antibody master mix prep by executing a digital protocol based on a user-provided table of antibodies and volumes.
Many scientists hesitate to automate cocktailing—not because they doubt the benefits, but because they expect complexity, cost, or a steep learning curve. Pluto was designed to remove all three barriers:
It’s all too common to stare at your flow cytometry plots and wonder, “Did I actually add that antibody in the right amount?”. This moment of doubt undermines confidence in your results and can force repeat experiments.
Manually preparing antibody master mixes involves combining reagents in precise ratios to create a final staining mix. This process introduces several risks:
The Pluto Workstation addresses each of these challenges with standardized, traceable automation—delivering measurable efficiency gains.
Automating antibody cocktailing with the Pluto Workstation requires no coding and works seamlessly with standard commercial antibody vials. The entire workflow is guided by the Workflow Generator, which transforms your antibody panel into an automation protocol in just a few steps:
Steps:
Manually preparing antibody cocktails is a common but error-prone practice in flow cytometry labs. Automation with the Pluto Workstation offers a standardized, scalable alternative that addresses the limitations of hand pipetting.
| Factor | Manual Preparation | Automated with Pluto Workstation |
|---|---|---|
| Pipetting Accuracy | Dependent on individual technique | Robotic; precision-calibrated |
| Reproducibility | Varies between users and locations | Automated execution ensures uniformity |
| Hands-on Time | 1-2 hours for complex panels* | Less than 5 minutes per panel* |
| Reagent Waste | High due to tip retention and human error | Low dead volume pipetting conserves reagents |
| Scalability | Limited by user capacity | Scales to 96 antibodies and 96 wells per run |
| Traceability & Logs | Manual recordkeeping | Automatic digital logs and audit trail |
| Cell Viability Impact | Centrifugation introduces mechanical stress | No centrifugation; gentler on fragile cells |
*Based on experimental data from the poster “Advancing Flow Cytometry Diagnostics: The Curiox C-FREE Pluto System in Clinical Laboratory Automation”. Click here to download.
For labs performing high-dimensional flow cytometry, automating cocktail preparation reduces variability, simplifies compliance, and accelerates throughput—especially in regulated or multi-site workflows.
Pluto is ideal for researchers working with:
Automated antibody cocktailing is available on all Pluto Workstation models:
| Model | Throughput | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Pluto LT | 8–32 wells | Assay development / Low-throughput workflows / Academic labs |
| Pluto MT | 24–72 wells | Core labs / CROs / Medium-scale studies |
| Pluto HT | 96 wells | Large Biopharma / High-throughput automation |
What is an antibody cocktail in flow cytometry?
A reagent mix containing multiple fluorochrome-labeled antibodies used for staining cells in multicolor flow panels.
Why automate antibody cocktail prep?
Automation ensures precision, reduces error, minimizes reagent waste, and standardizes workflows across users and sites.
How is antibody cocktailing programmed on the Pluto Workstation?
Users upload a CSV file specifying each antibody, its source location, and desired volume. Pluto executes the pipetting steps automatically. No coding knowledge required!
Can Pluto also stain and wash cells?
Yes. Pluto integrates cocktail prep with staining and C-FREE™ washing—no centrifugation required.
Do I need to know any coding?
No. Just fill in a simple spreadsheet. Pluto handles the rest.
Can I use the antibody vials I already have?
Yes. Pluto supports all major commercial vial formats.
For more frequently asked questions, please click here.
