Gel Imaging and Analysis Systems Expand Beyond Microscopy Into Genomics and Proteomics
A New Report From Biocompare, Inc. Finds That KODAK and Bio-Rad Are Top Suppliers of Gel Imaging Systems
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- April 17, 2006 -- A new report from Biocompare, Inc., 2006 Gel Imaging and Analysis Systems Report, based on a survey of over 500 researchers, presents that DNA and protein detection and quantitation are the most common uses for imaging systems in science laboratories today. Half of those surveyed possessed either KODAK or Bio-Rad systems, and most reported to Phortech International that they would purchase new systems from Bio-Rad. Top marks in customer satisfaction, however, went to Syngene, for exceptional reproducibility.
The development of cooled charge-coupled devices and laser scanners has allowed improvements in imaging sensitivity and permitted resolution up to 10 microns/pixel. While the dyes used for detection are often the most cost-prohibitive factors in the utilization of this technology, instrument costs are also substantial, with molecular and elemental analysis equipment responsible for revenues in excess of $7 billion in 2004 and expected to grow steadily.
Vendors are currently focusing on instrument ease of use, reproducibility, flexibility, and functionality, all important factors for consumer purchasing decisions, to attract consumers and gain market share. Imaging systems have long been associated with the need for high-end expertise, but vendors are responding by redesigning equipment that can be operated by a myriad of users at multiple levels of proficiency.
Scientists report that they use their systems weekly and are eager to find more powerful, comprehensive systems in their research. Cost is an important factor guiding purchasing trends, not only as a criterion for purchasing decisions, but as a suggestion for companies designing the next generation imaging systems. Future product lines will likely include more user-friendly, higher resolution systems, with better methods for saving and archiving images, additional automation, and reduced equipment footprint size and cost. Increasing technical support expertise and the ability to perform multiple analysis applications on the same gel or blot is also on the wish lists of many current imaging scientists.
This report, 2006 Gel Imaging and Analysis Systems Report, available from Biocompare, Inc., explores researchers' purchasing plans and research approaches in the area of gel imaging and analysis applications. More information about this and other reports available from Biocompare can be found at: https://www.biocompare.com/research
About Biocompare
Biocompare, Inc. (http://www.biocompare.com), headquartered in South San Francisco, California, is a global media company informing and connecting the buyers, users, and sellers of life science products. By combining an in-depth knowledge of life science products and new technologies with the power of the internet, Biocompare offers a dynamic, relevant, and innovative media-based marketplace for life science information.