Automation and standardization remain major challenges in stem-cell research, particularly when working across very different scales—from true single cells to complex 3D organoids. In this talk, I will present how two complementary Sartorius platforms, the CellCelector Flex and the Incucyte, can be combined to create an integrated and highly reproducible workflow covering the full continuum of stem-cell applications.

The CellCelector Flex is a versatile automated microscopy and micromanipulation system that enables precise isolation of cellular structures based on size, morphology, and fluorescence. For iPSC gene-editing workflows, it provides image-documented monoclonality proof and gentle, viability-preserving transfer of clones from nanowells into 96- or 384-well plates for further exapansion. The same platform is equally effective for organoid workflows, whether isolating organoids from Matrigel domes or gently detaching retinal or brain organoids from 2D–3D differentiation cultures using specialized scrape tools. All steps are fully traceable, high-throughput, and greatly reduce manual workload.

The Incucyte live-cell imaging system complements these capabilities by enabling continuous, label-free or fluorescent monitoring of iPSC cultures and organoid growth directly inside the incubator. Quantitative real-time metrics—including size, number, morphology, eccentricity, and differentiation dynamics—allow rapid optimization of culture conditions and quality control before and after isolation.

Together, the CellCelector Flex and Incucyte streamline complex workflows, increase reproducibility, and accelerate the generation and characterization of advanced stem-cell and organoid models.