Quantitative Multiplex
Immunofluorescence

Multiplex Immunofluorescence (IF) image analysis can be an invaluable tool in immuno-oncology and autoimmune indications or where an understanding of the status of the immune system is important.

Precision’s multiplex IF workflow can detect and visualize up to 9 markers of interest simultaneously from a sample. This generates complex spatial information of a tumor or tissue sample, and can be used to visualize the spatial distribution of proteins within a single cell – all of which can provide information on pharmacodynamics (PD), mechanism of action, and progression or state of disease. Precision offers quantitative and high-throughput multiplex IF on fresh and archival tissues as well as cells isolated from liquid biopsies using ApoStream, such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs).

Quantitative multiplex immunofluorescence: A powerful tool for oncology therapeutic development

Single-cell and spatial biology insights with multiplex immunofluorescence

For multiplex IF assays, Precision uses instruments including the PhenoImager HT (previously known as the Vectra® Polaris™) Automated Quantitative Pathology Imaging System, which is a robust and flexible platform that can be used in a CLIA setting and is compatible with both tissues and cells. We offer assay development and validation of multiplex IF staining using multiple types of multispectral image detection technologies.

Precision for Medicine is now recognized as a Certified Partner of Akoya Biosciences for multiplex immunofluorescence tissue profiling. This partnership strengthens our dedication to using advanced technologies for precise and efficient tissue profiling. For more details on this alliance, please read our recent blog post.

Phenotype cells within a sample

Using 9 color imaging, phenotype all cells from a sample into predefined subpopulations.

Nearest neighbor analysis

Nearest neighbor analysis quantifies cell-cell interactions by measuring the distance between each cell of one phenotype (phenotype A) and its closest neighbor of another phenotype (phenotype B).

Infiltration analysis
  • Define tumor margin
  • Quantify T cell infiltration

Analyze individual cells

Quantify biomarkers in enriched cells such as CTCs

Analysis software

AI-powered image analysis is performed using Inform or Halo patented software to visualize, analyze, quantify and phenotype abundant and rare cells, including subcellular localization (nuclear vs cytoplasmic) of proteins at the single cell level.

Integrating biomarker and clinical trial data

To help researchers understand and interpret biomarker assay data in the context of other assays as well as the clinical trial data, Precision provides the option of managing and analyzing data using our proprietary QuartzBio® enterprise Biomarker Data Management (eBDM) solution.

Learn more about QuartzBio solutions

Customized workflows generate complex insights from multiplex IF

Tissue biopsy multiplex IF workflow

At Precision, we have developed a digital pathology workflow that maximizes the capabilities of the Vectra Polaris™ Multiplex Immunofluorescence System. This system integrates multispectral imaging with automated scanning of cells in situ in FFPE tissue sections and tissue microarrays.

We have validated several immune biomarker panels across various therapeutic applications using this platform and workflow. These panels are being used to monitor immune cell infiltration in certain cancers, psoriasis, lupus, and atopic dermatitis.

Visualizing immune cell infiltration of tumors using multiplex IF

Knowledge of the interplay between tumor cells and the immune system is critical for the translation and development of novel cancer therapies. In solid tumors, interactions of cancer cells with their microenvironment—the mixture of cellular elements around them—can profoundly influence the probability of tumor progression, as well as the likelihood of therapeutic response and resistance. multiplex IF is a tool that can visualize the tumor microenvironment and immune cell infiltration.

Immune-inflamed (hot)

CD8+ Cytotoxic T cells (green) infiltrating into Pan-CK+tumor cells (purple)

Immune-excluded (cold)

CD8+ Cytotoxic T cells surrounding but not inflitrating into Pan-CK+ tumor cells (purple)

Immune-ignored

Abscence of CD8+ Cytotoxic T cells (green) in tumor area Pan-CK+ cells (purple)

Poster: Tissue and liquid biopsy profiling using multiplexed immunofluorescence

In this poster, we demonstrate how multiplex If can be used to effectively explore the architectural context of the tumor microenvironment and classify tumors as hot, cold, or immune-ignored.

Global reach, multi-site support

Our multiplex immunofluorescence services support preclinical and clinical research, including multi-site studies, conducted anywhere in the world.

Working with Precision

Precision’s specialty lab scientists take a collaborative and consultative approach to projects and can provide recommendations on biomarker assay strategies and implementation. Services can be provided individually or as part of a comprehensive therapeutic development package including biomarker assays and clinical trials.

Related services

ApoStream – CTC and Rare Cell Capture for Liquid Biopsy

ApoStream enables antibody-free isolation and concentration of target cells in liquid biopsy samples, enabling analysis of CTCs and other rare and low concentration components using methods like mIF, FISH, and genomic analyses.

Genomics

With NGS, NanoString, qPCR and ddPCR capabilities, we can add insights from genomic and transcriptomic technologies to your understanding of patient biology.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Precision’s IHC services can be customized based on study needs, including logististical and kitting processes, development of special stains, and creation of a custom assay and scoring system.

Start the conversation with our experts

Whether you know exactly the type of immune monitoring approach you need or would like expert support with project design, we can deliver.

Start the conversation with our experts

Whether you know exactly the type of immune monitoring approach you need or would like expert support with project design, we can deliver.

Explore other areas of expertise