News | September 4, 2008

San Francisco Bay Area Cell Analysis Company Forges Partnership With Hudson Control Group As First Step In Automation Initiative To Support Drug Discovery Research

Hayward, CA - Guava Technologies, Inc. announced the commencement of an agreement with Hudson Control Group to provide drug discovery researchers with an automated solution for cellular analyses. This non-exclusive agreement is a key component of a larger strategic initiative by Guava Technologies. The initiative is a direct response to a voiced need for sophisticated cell analysis technology to support higher throughput research in a compact, automated, and easy-to-use platform. As part of the agreement, Guava Technologies has established straightforward and worry-free processes for purchase, installation, and service of the complete, integrated solution.

"With this agreement we can immediately deliver an automated walk-away solution for cell analysis to meet the ever-increasing need for higher throughput cell biology that many labs face in today's environment of fast-paced, answer-focused, and efficiency-conscious research," said Lawrence Bruder, CEO, Guava Technologies. "Nothing pleases us more than to meet customer needs, and now, with Hudson, not only can we do that right away, we can also pursue development of even higher value automated solutions going forward."

The new cell analysis system delivers both sample preparation and cell analysis technologies directly to the laboratory benchtop. It is compatible with a range of Guava Turnkey Assays in 96-well format, including the Guava ViaCount Assay for cell counting and viability. The system includes a Guava EasyCyte Plus Flow Cytometer, a Hudson Control PlateCrane EX robotic arm, and a micro10 liquid dispenser. Once installed and interlinked, it delivers walk-away automated cell analysis effortlessly via integration software from Guava Technologies and Hudson Control Group.

"We have already worked in partnership with Hudson to install this new system in several drug discovery labs," said David King, PhD, VP, R&D and Operations. "So far, response has been fantastically positive. Customers are very enthusiastic that we added walk-away automation to support higher throughput research without sacrificing our friendly, turnkey approach to cellular analyses."

Phil Farrelly, President, Hudson Control Group, added: "Hudson is very excited to work with Guava Technologies to develop innovative solutions that will accelerate results for researchers working in cellular analysis. By integrating our microplate robot for plate feeding and our liquid-handling and scheduler products with Guava(R) Systems, we deliver a level of automation for cell analysis beyond what is currently available. And, together we offer life scientists higher value solutions for high throughput cell analysis than each company could offer independently."

SOURCE: Guava Technologies, Inc.