A groundbreaking advancement in the field of single-cell analysis is set to transform research capabilities globally. Bruker Corporation has unveiled the Beacon Discovery Optofluidic System at the upcoming American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2025. Designed as a benchtop solution, this innovative system provides researchers with an accessible gateway into live single-cell functional analysis. Leveraging proprietary technology and machine learning automation, it enables precise cell isolation, control, and multi-parameter temporal analysis over extended periods. This compact system complements Bruker’s larger premium platforms, focusing on ease of use and affordability for academic and biotech labs.
The Beacon Discovery System builds upon Bruker's advanced Opto-Electrical Positioning (OEP) technology and scalable OptoSelect microfluidic chips. These features allow for the exact manipulation and analysis of individual cells within Nanopens, facilitating both imaging and sequential assays. A key advantage is the ability to recover cells post-analysis for downstream genomic or transcriptomic studies, creating a bridge between functional insights and sequencing data. Unlike its high-throughput predecessors aimed at pharmaceuticals and contract research organizations (CROs), this new platform emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and customizable workflows tailored for translational research environments.
By significantly reducing costs associated with ownership and operation, the Beacon Discovery makes cutting-edge single-cell analysis more attainable for researchers exploring various fields such as immuno-oncology, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and regenerative medicine. Dr. Joseph Zenga from the Medical College of Wisconsin attests to its transformative potential in TCR discovery for cancer immunotherapy. He highlights how automated processes and novel multi-parameter analyses enable detailed characterization of tumor antigen-specific T cells, speeding up the identification of promising therapeutic candidates.
Vikram Devgan, Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management at Bruker Cellular Analysis, emphasizes that this new platform sets new standards by breaking down barriers in single-cell functional characterization. With its lower entry price point and enhanced usability, it empowers diverse applications across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and academia, accelerating discoveries in B and T cell therapies and biomarker research.
Pre-orders are now available, with commercial deliveries anticipated later in 2025. To provide early access, Bruker has initiated a Technology Access Program (TAP), inviting confidential submissions of samples for evaluation on the Beacon Discovery system. Attendees at AACR 2025 can experience the system firsthand at Booth #803 and participate in a workshop introducing its capabilities on April 27th.
This launch marks a pivotal moment in advancing biological understanding through accessible and powerful single-cell analysis tools, heralding a new era of scientific exploration and innovation.