52 | 2025 GIGA Annual Report MAJOR TECHNOLOGICAL UPGRADES AND INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENTS ARE SHAPING OUR CORE FACILITIES In Immunohistology, an FNRS EQP 2024 grant secured the purchase of a cryostat, with installation planned for 2025. In Cell Imaging and Flow Cytometry, several cutting-edge tools have been integrated this year: the Cytoflex SRT cell sorter joined the lab as part of a project promoting alternatives to animal experimentation; a Falcon module was added to the Stellaris 8 microscope thanks to support from Rotary Action Jetons Cancer; and a new TIRF/HILO microscope (FNRS EQP) has further expanded our imaging capabilities. Spatial transcriptomics is now within reach with the acquisition of both the Xenium system and the Visium CytAssist from 10x Genomics, funded by the WalBioImaging ULiège initiative (FEDER 2021–2027). In Proteomics, we welcomed the Formulatrix Mantis — a state-of-the-art liquid handler designed for precision and efficiency. The Genomics platform doubled its sequencing power with a second Oxford Nanopore P2 Solo, allowing for four PromethION Flow Cells to be run simultaneously. This upgrade marks a major leap in throughput and flexibility. Additionally, the team invested in the Formulatrix F.A.S.T., a positive-displacement pipetting system capable of delivering ultra-precise volumes — down to 0.1 µL — across 1 to 96 channels. This innovation is a game-changer in reducing reagent use and boosting reproducibility during library preparation. The Viral Vector facility expanded its capabilities with the addition of digital PCR (dPCR) equipment. In Human In Vivo Imaging, the acquisition of the SKOPE system — funded through WalBioImaging ULiège (FEDER 2021–2027) — now enables more accurate 7T MRI scans. The Animal Facility has seen significant infrastructure improvements. Thanks to the Belgian Foundation Against Cancer, micro CT and micro PET imaging systems are now up and running. New ventilated housing racks, upgraded water purification systems for drinking supply, and more humane euthanasia systems have all been implemented to enhance animal care and welfare.
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