Bedford, MA, January 15, 2026 — Formulatrix, a leader in laboratory automation solutions, and Spear Bio, an innovator in ultrasensitive protein biomarker detection, today announced their ongoing partnership to automate and optimize the SPEAR UltraDetect™ assay platform using the F.A.S.T.™ (Flow Axial Seal Tip) Liquid Handler.
This partnership combines Spear Bio’s next-generation immunoassay technology with Formulatrix’s precision automation, streamlining the SPEAR UltraDetect workflow—from sample preparation to qPCR setup—to deliver high throughput, reproducibility, and efficiency for protein biomarker analysis in life science and diagnostic research.
Transforming Ultrasensitive Protein Detection
The SPEAR UltraDetect assay platform represents a new benchmark in ultrasensitive immunoassays for detecting protein biomarkers at attomolar concentrations in minimal volumes. Powered by Successive Proximity Extension Amplification Reaction (SPEAR) technology, this assay platform employs a two-factor authentication mechanism requiring sustained co-localization of two antibodies to generate amplifiable signal. Combined with the homogeneous, wash-free assay format, the SPEAR UltraDetect assay platform ensures exceptional specificity and zero surface-introduced interference for reliable protein detection, even at extremely low concentrations.
Compatible with standard qPCR platforms and automated liquid handling systems, the SPEAR UltraDetect platform provides scalable, high-precision results for researchers working across discovery and translational applications.
Enhancing UltraDetect Workflow Performance with the F.A.S.T.
The SPEAR UltraDetect workflow with the F.A.S.T. offers customers a semi-automated
solution, with set-up time of less than 20 minutes while ensuring best-in-class precision.
Key workflow enhancements include:
- Accurate pipetting down to 0.1 µL, independent of reagent viscosity
- Minimal dead volumes and cross-contamination-free operation
- Precise serial dilutions and reagent additions for reproducible calibration curves
- Support for up to 384-well formats for scalable throughput
- Consistent liquid transfers under oil overlays and optional humidity chamber to overcome evaporation at small volumes
Together, these features empower researchers to achieve consistent, high-quality data at unprecedented speed and precision.
Proven Performance and Reproducibility
In validation studies, Spear Bio demonstrated that automating the SPEAR UltraDetect workflow with the F.A.S.T. system reduced hands-on time by over 80% and improved precision to < 5% average CV with 1 µL sample. The collaboration highlights both companies’ commitment to innovation and reproducibility in
molecular research.
About Spear Bio
Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Woburn, Massachusetts, Spear Bio is dedicated to its mission of revolutionizing biomarker research and diagnostics through innovation and accessibility. Leveraging its unique homogeneous assay format, SPEAR technology consistently delivers highly sensitive and precise protein measurements. Through its strategic distribution partnership with Bio-Techne, Spear Bio is extending the reach of its platform to researchers worldwide, ensuring that breakthrough assay performance is accessible where it’s needed most. Spear Bio envisions a future where high-performance assays democratize access to critical insights, accelerating progress in research and medicine worldwide.
About Formulatrix
Formulatrix was established in 2002 to provide cutting-edge protein crystallization automation solutions. Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings to include intelligent liquid handlers, miniaturized TFF systems, plate delivery robotics, and cell culture automation. Formulatrix partners with leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies—as well as top academic institutions worldwide—to deliver advanced software and robotic automation technologies that streamline research and accelerate discovery.