We have detailed user guides for our system as well as protocols for the entire process
Images of tissue samples labelled with the SCIZYS Er kit and scanned with the SCIZYS scanner
SCIZYS uses upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) excited by near‑infrared light. This removes tissue autofluorescence entirely and enables ultra‑sensitive, high‑contrast biomarker detection that is difficult to achieve with conventional fluorophores or chromogenic IHC.
SCIZYS is particularly well suited for low‑abundance or borderline‑expressed biomarkers with high specificity antibodies, such as HER2‑low, PD‑L1‑low, and rare immune cell markers, where background or limited dynamic range limits conventional methods.
Higher sensitivity improves the signal-to-background ratio but does not eliminate nonspecific antibody binding or replace the need for professional biological interpretation.
SCIZYS acquires brightfield and UCNP images from the same tissue section with a 1:1 spatial relationship, allowing morphology and biomarker signal to be assessed together or separately.
Yes. Brightfield morphology is preserved and UCNP signal can be viewed separately or overlaid. SCIZYS is typically positioned as an adjunct or problem‑solving tool rather than a replacement for routine IHC. (SCIZYS is for research use only)
SCIZYS provides a high dynamic range and photostable fluorescence data that supports objective, reproducible quantitative analysis. The extreme sensitivity of SCIZYS enables direct labeling (eliminating the need for secondary antibodies), which further enhances the potential for precise biomarker quantification.
Compared to DAB‑IHC, SCIZYS offers higher sensitivity and broader dynamic range. Compared to multiplex IF, SCIZYS avoids autofluorescence and photobleaching but is typically used for targeted, high‑confidence detection rather than large multiplex panels.
Yes. SCIZYS is compatible with standard IHC workflows. Existing IHC protocols can be transferred to UCNP labeling and existing antibodies, and automated staining platforms can be used.
UCNP signals are extremely photostable, enabling rescanning, long‑term storage, and reproducible measurement. UCNPs provide a stable, non-enzymatic signal that reduces the run-to-run variability often seen with traditional chromogenic development. Automated staining compatibility supports scalability across labs and studies.
SCIZYS outputs pyramidised OME‑TIFF whole‑slide image files compatible with standard digital pathology software and AI pipelines.
SCIZYS is currently for research use only (RUO) and intended for research, translational studies, and drug development.
SCIZYS may add limited value for biomarkers that are already highly and uniformly expressed, or when high-plex panels are required. It is most effective where sensitivity and background interference are the limiting factors. As with any IHC method, SCIZYS depends on antibody specificity, it cannot compensate for a poorly performing antibody.