Principal product lines include fluorescence-activated cell sorters and analyzers; cell imaging systems; monoclonal antibodies and kits for performing cell analysis; reagent systems for life sciences research; tools to aid in drug discovery and growth of living cells and tissue; cell culture media supplements for biopharmaceutical manufacturing; and diagnostic assays. Our diverse global customer base includes academic and government institutions, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and both commercial reference labs and hospitals in the clinical laboratory segment.
Cell analysis is the focus of our Immunocytometry Systems and Pharmingen units, which together have experienced solid growth driven by proven instrument platforms, improved software solutions and reagents. Throughout the world, researchers rely on our state-of-the-art technologies, products and leading expertise to study cells to better understand disease, speed the discovery and development of novel therapeutics, and improve diagnosis and disease management. Recent launches of several flow cytometry platforms and associated sample preparation and automation systems have helped us lead the way in all major customer segments.
Research instruments, including the BD FACSAria and BD LSR ll flow cytometers, and our broad array of monoclonal-based research reagents, are the tools of choice in cellular research laboratories around the world. New bioimaging instruments enable researchers to better understand biological processes through real-time imaging of live cell processes.
Our clinical flow cytometry platforms, such as the BD FACSCount and BD FACSCalibur Systems, are considered the “gold standard” for CD4 testing, which is utilized worldwide to monitor HIV/AIDS therapy. Flow cytometry is also widely used for typing leukemia and lymphoma. We plan to develop new platforms and assays in response to unmet and growing needs in the clinical segment.
BD Biosciences also focuses on serving researchers from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Our growing line of drug metabolism assays from the Discovery Labware unit help screen out nonviable drug candidates early, increasing the ultimate likelihood of clinical trial success. In addition, our broad array of laboratory products for tissue culture and fluid handling are utilized in research laboratories globally.
Finally, BD Biosciences collaborates with leading biotechnology companies to enhance the production of their biopharmaceuticals. Our Advanced Bioprocessing platform provides unique cell culture media supplements to optimize production yield for vaccines and therapeutic proteins.