Yokogawa Acquires Label-free Image Analysis Technology from Finnish Company

Yokogawa Electric Corporation announced that it has obtained a label-free image analysis technology from Chip-Man Technologies Oy of Finland. With this technology, detailed computer analyses can be conducted of live cell images that have been taken with a microscope using a label-free technique. Formerly, this was only possible using fluorescence labeling. With this technology, Yokogawa will enter solution market for the observation of live cells in the preclinical and clinical stages of regenerative medicine and iPS cell research field.

In basic research, live cells are typically labeled with a dye and then irradiated by a laser or some other means so that they can be observed more easily under a microscope. However, this exposure to light often has a phototoxic effect on the cells. During the pre-clinical and clinical trials that are required for regulatory approval, it is necessary to carry out label- and irradiation-free observations of in vivo cell activity. Cells that are being cultured for transplantation must also be label-free. Yokogawa has acquired this technology for applications, such as in vitro fertilization and the coagulation and organization of differentiated cells in regenerative medicine, - where quality and safety are utmost concerns - and the sorting of iPS cells.

Acquired Technology
The technology acquired from Chip-Man Technologies enables the detailed computer analysis of images of label-free live cells taken using a conventional microscope, eliminating the need for a special optical system. Yokogawa offers confocal scanner units for use in basic research applications where the use of fluorescence labeling techniques is acceptable in the observation of live cells. By acquiring this label-free image analysis technology, the company can now also offer solutions for preclinical and clinical applications. Leveraging this strength, Yokogawa will expand its business in the fields of regenerative medicine and iPS cell research, both of which are expected to grow rapidly.

Chip-Man Technologies Oy is a limited liability company that was founded in 2002 and has its headquarters in Finland. The company has a variety of technologies, including microscopes for observing cell cultures and the label-free cell image analysis technology that is the subject of this announcement. This company's products are widely used throughout Europe and other markets in fields and applications, such as regenerative medicine and drug candidate evaluation testing.

Keywords: Image Analysis Technology, Fluorescence Labeling, Regenerative Medicine, iPS Cell Research, Live Cell Images, ARC Advisory Group.