GENyO is introducing advanced scientific equipment to boost biomedical research

In 2026, the Pfizer–University of Granada–Regional Government of Andalusia Centre for Genomics and Cancer Research (GENyO) will strengthen its technological infrastructure with the addition of four state-of-the-art instruments for its Cytometry and Microscopy Units. This acquisition has been made possible thanks to the support of the University of Granada (UGR), which has enabled participation in the State Sub-programme for Scientific and Technical Infrastructure and Equipment of the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, with a total investment of over €2 million.

The new instruments — a mass cytometer, a nanocytometer, a super-resolution confocal laser microscope and a nanoparticle tracking analysis system — will position GENyO as one of the country’s most advanced centres for multiparametric analysis, cell characterisation and the study of nanoparticles.

Pioneering technology in Spain

The new CyTOF XTPro mass cytometer, the first unit of this model in the country, will enable the measurement of over 50 parameters at the single-cell level with high sensitivity, accelerating the study of rare cell populations and clinical applications. The equipment features software that complies with 21 CFR Part 11, a regulation issued by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that establishes criteria for electronic records and electronic signatures. GENyO was a pioneer in Spain in adopting this technology in 2015.

Furthermore, the nanocytometer—of which there are only two units in Spain—will facilitate the analysis of ultra-small particles—such as exosomes, extracellular vesicles or viruses—with a sensitivity far superior to that of conventional cytometers, opening up new possibilities in biomedicine, biotechnology and quality control.

Super-resolution confocal microscopy made accessible to the scientific community

The new confocal microscope with super-resolution capability will enable resolutions of up to 90 nm and allow experiments to be carried out on live samples. It will provide the opportunity to analyse the localisation of target molecules and the dynamics of organelles, and to characterise nanoparticles, extracellular vesicles and exosomes with greater precision and reliability for biomedical applications. In addition, it will be accompanied by an advanced image analysis workstation equipped with software based on artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Nanoparticle analysis at the service of researchers

The nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) system will enable the real-time quantification of the size, concentration and charge of nanoparticles and exosomes, amongst other samples. This facility will eliminate the need to travel to other centres, as GENyO’s research groups currently do to carry out these tests.

A strategic boost for research in Andalusia

The introduction of this equipment will enhance the centre’s scientific competitiveness, enable it to undertake new international projects, expand the range of services offered by the Support Units, and strengthen the impact of GENyO and the University of Granada in the field of biomedical research.

With this investment, GENyO is advancing its mission to provide the scientific community with state-of-the-art technology and to foster the development of innovative products and processes that can be transferred to society.