Streamlining SLC modulator screening with automated pipetting solutions
Targeting SLCs to tackle complex diseases
Solgate was founded in 2020 with the aim of changing the course of disease by modulating SLCs – membrane proteins that control the cellular uptake and distribution of key nutrients, metabolites, signaling molecules and ions. Georgi Dimchev, Senior Scientist at Solgate, explained why this overlooked protein family has become a key research priority: "SLCs are a large and underexplored protein family that has been historically difficult to study. High resolution structural information for many SLCs until recently was, or still is, lacking and, in many cases, we still don't know the precise function or substrate of some SLC transporters. However, they are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, and their dysfunction is linked to a wide range of conditions, including metabolic disorders, inflammatory diseases or neurological conditions. This makes SLCs very attractive pharmacological targets to focus on."
Advances in technologies such as cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and the development of more sophisticated biological assays have opened new avenues for SLC-targeted drug discovery. Solgate has developed a dedicated platform combining chemistry, cell biology and computational tools to identify disease-relevant SLCs and design potent, selective modulators. The team prioritizes targets with strong genetic links to disease and aims to restore or correct transporter function through small molecule therapies.
Automated workflows to support complex assays
High throughput screening is central to the company’s drug discovery approach. The team routinely performs high content microscopy-based assays in 384 well plates, processing hundreds of samples each week. Each workflow involves a series of intricate steps, including cell seeding, compound dosing, incubation, staining and fixation. Automation has become essential for the lab to manage this level of complexity at scale. "When you're handling so many plates across multiple projects, reproducibility becomes a necessity", Georgi said. "Manual pipetting not only slows things down, but also increases the risk of variability. To minimize this, we automate as many steps as possible."
Enhancing reproducibility and reliability
The lab currently uses ASSIST PLUS pipetting robots and VIAFLO electronic pipettes to automate standard tasks across multiple research pipelines, enhancing consistency across experiments. This is essential in a lab where key assays are repeated weekly. “We often perform the same assay on a weekly basis with new compounds, using standardized controls to normalize the results”, explained Georgi. “If there's pipetting variability between runs, the controls don’t behave the same way, and the assay becomes unreliable. That’s why we’ve focused on using automation where possible.”
INTEGRA’s automation solutions ensure consistent reagent delivery and eliminate manual errors, while the precisely aligned and controlled pipette movements protect delicate cell layers from disruption. Together, these factors are vital for generating high quality, reproducible data across experiments.
Intuitive liquid handling tools for a growing team
Despite the multiple potential benefits, lab automation is only effective if it is easy for scientists to understand and implement. One of the key reasons Solgate selected INTEGRA's pipetting solutions was their ease of use, as the start-up needed tools that could be quickly adopted by scientists at all experience levels, without the need for extensive training. Ivana Rinklake, Research Associate at Solgate, stated: “The ASSIST PLUS and VIAFLO are really accessible – everyone in the lab uses them, from new employees to senior scientists. The shared interface across all INTEGRA pipettes makes it easy to learn how to use them, whether you’re running a basic task or a more complex, multi-step protocol.”
Georgi added: "The VIALAB software is also really intuitive to use. You can visually map out your protocol, simulate the run and upload it directly to the ASSIST PLUS. Switching between programs only takes a few clicks, and you can even build in incubation pauses and user prompts, so the system walks you through the process with minimal intervention.”
Outstanding customer service and support
INTEGRA’s customer service has also played a key role in supporting Solgate’s work. The team benefits from rapid responses to technical queries, help with setting up new workflows and fast turnaround times for any repairs. Support is always available when needed, which is essential for a fast-paced research environment. Ivana explained: “Whether we need training, help with troubleshooting or arranging a repair, our local INTEGRA representative is always responsive and helpful. Unlike many other laboratory equipment companies, where support can take weeks, INTEGRA is fast, flexible and proactive.”
A scalable solution for cutting-edge science
INTEGRA’s pipetting systems have provided the foundation Solgate needs to scale its high throughput research. Their ease of use and reliable performance, together with INTEGRA’s responsive support, have helped the team to focus on its scientific goals without being slowed down by technical limitations. Ivana concluded: “The ASSIST PLUS and VIAFLO systems are exactly what we needed. Whether you're a start-up or a large lab, these are the kinds of tools that help science to move faster, and they have helped us to create a robust screening platform that can grow with the company.”