Mapix

Mapix controls all INNOPSYS InnoScan range of microarray scanners. Saving configurations (reading and analysis settings) allows users to define all protocols appropriately for each of their applications.

• Reading the barcode on the microarray and integrating it into the image file generated provides traceability for all data.
• The automatic setting of reading parameters is an efficient option to optimise and facilitate the use of Mapix and simplify your applications (available from version 5.5.0).
• Save acquired images as 16 bit and 20 bit TIFF images with all the reading parameters (pixel size, laser power, etc.) and the option of exporting to JPEG and PNG formats.
• Slide scanning with an extended dynamic range for maximum possible data from your microarrays (XDR function available from version 6.0.0)

Given the size of the images obtained (5.74 GB to read an entire slide at 1 µm resolution), the Mapix image analysis software has been specially designed to handle large files.

Using an efficient and configurable algorithm, Mapix automatically searches for each spot and aligns the grid optimally with the fastest times on the market.

Automatic segmentation of spots selects appropriate or useful pixels and eliminates others, thus providing a high quality of experimental data.

Mapix includes GenePix Array List (GAL) files for compatibility with a wide variety of microarrays from different suppliers (Staggered/Orange Packing, Protein, aCGH, …) as well as home made microarrays. Its grid creation function makes it compatible with all microarray formats.

Performance of gridding and quantification calculations is adjusted to suit the resolution of the InnoScan 710 (3 μm) and the high resolution of the InnoScan 910 (1 μm) as well as the size of the images and the volume of data generated.

Mapix has been designed to offer users optimal display and rapid learning by providing very interactive commands.

Mapix saves its results in tabbed text format (TXT) and GPR. Automatic gridding allows users to mark spots based on customizable criteria defined using the editor (available from version 3.5.0) thus providing quality control.

Mapix allows 16 and 20 bit TIFF images from various scanners to be analyzed.

Lowess smoothing and other global data normalization algorithms are adapted to two-color.

Batch Processing increases productivity by automating the analysis of a large number of microarrays per day (available from version 3.0.0). Using this feature, users can create their own batch processing in order to read microarrays and analyse data.

Perform all these steps in just one click:

• Scanning
• Gridding
• Quantification
• Export data as a .txt or .gpr file

Using this workflow, Batch Processing with our AutoLoader system, which loads up to 24 slides automatically, is the optimum solution for high throughput applications.

Mapix offers maximum adaptability to develop with user needs.

Plug-in management is a means of integrating specific user applications into Mapix (available from version 4.0.0). An example of a plug-in with its Java source code is supplied as well as a guide for developers.

Mapix plug-ins can access data for images, quantification data and information from the spots grid.

Execution of plug-ins can be integrated with Batch processing and therefore be completely integrated in automating user applications.