For the first time ever, you can obtain Light Obscuration data to meet USP regulatory guidelines, and verify your data with real images, all with a single instrument, and a single sample run.
Our new FlowCam LO instrument combines our patented flow imaging microscopy technology with an embedded light obscuration particle counter to provide you with the necessary data for USP regulations and validation with images.
In FlowCam LO, a single sample passes continuously through two flow cells. The first uses FlowCam technology to capture digital images and the second uses the light obscuration method to collect data for USP regulations.
While analysis with light obscuration is standard, the FDA has long made clear that size data alone, collected with light obscuration, is not adequate to ensure safe and effective drugs, and that it's necessary to provide validation and imaging data using orthogonal methods. FlowCam LO has the orthogonal method built in.
FlowCam LO provides:
Given that Light Obscuration compares all particles to a sphere (equivalent spherical diameter or ESD), it's possible that extrinsic particles roughly the same size as your proteins would pass the LO USP size distribution test. The image below shows the variety of particles you might see with a similar ESD (shown here: proteins, agglomerates, silicone droplets, air bubbles and other contaminants - silica, glass shards). A sample like this might pass USP size limits, but still fail at the trial stage. Verify your data with images, with the FlowCam LO.
