PEAQ-ITC Automated

Fully automated, hands free ITC for increased productivity

The PEAQ-ITC Automated, a MicroCal technology, is a configurable, low volume, highly sensitive isothermal titration calorimeter which offers the convenience of unattended operation. It delivers direct, label-free in solution measurement of all binding parameters in a single experiment. Applications include characterizing molecular interactions of small molecules, proteins, antibodies, nucleic acids, lipids and other biomolecules. It can also be used to measure enzyme kinetics.

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Overview

The PEAQ-ITC Automated, a MicroCal technology, combines the high sensitivity of the PEAQ-ITC - the calorimeter core of the system - with walkaway automation, to meet the productivity needs of busy research and drug discovery laboratories. 

The system directly measures heat released or absorbed during biochemical binding events, from which it calculates binding affinity (KD), stoichiometry (n), enthalpy (ΔH), and entropy (ΔS). 

Other than preparing samples and reagents to appropriate concentrations, there is minimal assay development, and time to first result is fast. Easy-to-use software includes optimized automation scripts for robust operation with a variety of sample types and conditions.

Features and benefits

  • User-friendly design tools assist in selecting experimental run parameters
  • All binding parameters (affinity, stoichiometry, enthalpy and entropy) in a single experiment
  • Quick to first result with minimal assay development, no labelling, no immobilization and no molecular weight limitations
  • High signal-to-noise gives more confidence in assessing data quality and relevance of generated affinity and thermodynamic parameters
  • Outstanding data quality for sub-millimolar to picomolar dissociation constants (10-2 to 10-12 M)
  • Coin-shaped cell optimizes sample mixing
  • Nonreactive Hastelloy for chemical resistance and compatibility with biological samples
  • Sensitivity to investigate any biomolecular interaction using as little as 10 µg of protein
  • Samples presented in a temperature-controlled 96-well plate
  • Fully automated system with walk-away operation for enhanced productivity

How it works

Isothermal titration microcalorimeters measure the heat change that occurs when two molecules interact. Heat is released or absorbed as a result of the redistribution and formation of non-covalent bonds when the interacting molecules go from the free to the bound state. 

ITC monitors these heat changes by measuring the differential power, applied to the cell heaters, required to maintain zero temperature difference between the reference and sample cells as the binding partners are mixed. 

The reference cell usually contains water, while the sample cell contains one of the binding partners (the sample, often but not necessarily a macromolecule) and a stirring syringe which holds the other binding partner (the ligand).

The ligand is injected into the sample cell, typically in 0.5 to 2 μL aliquots, until the ligand concentration is two- to three-fold greater than the sample. 

Each injection of ligand results in a heat pulse that is integrated with respect to time and normalized for concentration to generate a titration curve of kcal/mol vs molar ratio (ligand/sample). 

The resulting isotherm is fitted to a binding model to generate the affinity (KD ), stoichiometry (n) and enthalpy of interaction (ΔH).

Analysis software

Core PEAQ-ITC Analysis software offers experiment design simulation, batch evaluation of large data sets, automated assessment of data quality and a streamlined user interface that guides the user to final figures and presentation quality graphs quickly and easily.

  • Open multiple experiments in a single session
  • Supports many automated fitting models
    • Dissociation
    • Enzyme Kinetics - Multiple Injections
    • Enzyme Kinetics - Single Injection
    • One Set of Sites
    • Sequential Binding Sites
    • One Set of Sites - SIM
    • Two Sets of Sites
    • Competitive
  • Automated assessment of data quality
    • Good quality data - Binding
    • Good quality data - No binding
    • Poor quality data - Check data

Very good instrument, fast and easy to use."

Clarissa Melo Czekster — University of St Andrews

Specification

General

Measurement type Affinity (KD)
Enthalpy ∆H
Entropy ∆S
Stoichiometry (n)
Sample capacity 384 (four 96 well plates)
Sample tray temperature range 4°C ± 2°C at ambient
Sample volume 370 µL
Cell volume 200 µL
Injection syringe volume 40 µL
Injection volume precision < 1% @ 2 µL
Throughput Up to 42 per 24 h (SIM)
Cell material Hastelloy
Cell Coin-shaped
Noise 0.15 ncal/s
Temperature range 2°C to 80°C
Temperature stability ±0.00012°C
Response time 8 s*
Multiple feedback modes Yes (passive, high gain, low gain)
Notes *The MicroCal PEAQ-ITC Instrument Response Time is a true time constant.  It is the time interval between the first deviation away from the baseline, and the point on the peak that is 63% of the maximum peak height.

Operating Environment

Temperature (operating) 10 °C to 28 °C
Humidity 0% to 70% RH, non condensing

Electrical ratings

Power Supply 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz, 400 W
Weight 91 kg
Dimensions (W, D, H) 63 x 58 x 77 cm

Key applications and resources

MicroCal PEAQ-ITC instruments provide value to a wide range of applications, some of which are outlined below.

Drug Discovery (Hit Validation, Lead optimization & SAR)

Central to hit validation and lead optimization programs is obtaining accurate affinity measurements and stoichiometries. Because ITC does not require labeling or immobilization, has no upper or lower mass limitations or buffer requirements, it is universally applicable for determining very accurate affinities for any protein:drug interactions, including small molecule and biologics.

Structural Biology

ITC is a key element in the structural biologist’s toolbox. Not only for quantitative structure-activity measurements, but alsofor  the optimization of co-crystallization conditions.

User manuals

Software downloads

16 June 2025

1.52

PEAQ-ITC Analysis Software v1.52

1.52

28 June 2023

1.50

Control Software

  •     Maintenance release
1.50

05 November 2021

1.41

Analysis Software

  •     Maintenance release
1.41

12 January 2021

1.40

Analysis Software

  •     Maintenance release
1.40

12 January 2021

1.40

Control Software

  •     Maintenance release
1.40

23 April 2020

1.30

Control Software

  •     Maintenance release
1.30

23 April 2020

1.30

Analysis Software

  •     Maintenance release
1.30

20 March 2019

1.22

Analysis software
  • Maintenance release
1.22

05 September 2018

1.21

Control software
  • Single application software
  • Windows 10 compatibility
  • Maintenance release
  • Licensing requirement
  • Adaptive Filter Disabling
1.21

03 September 2018

1.21

Analysis software
  • Windows 10 compatibility
  • Maintenance release
  • Licensing requirement
  • Adaptive Filter Disabling
1.21

17 April 2015

1.0

MicroCal ITC Origin Analysis software Dissociation model update
1.0

21 February 2018

1.0

MicroCal Concat ITC software
  • Initial release
1.0

Unleash the full potential of your Malvern Panalytical solution

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Unmatched uptime and performance


Malvern Panalytical instruments are built to last and good maintenance and care ensure continued peak performance for many years to come.

Service Agreements build this into your schedule and budget, based on preventive maintenance and remote support. Different levels include repair visits, response times and parts coverage as needed. OQ services, training and application consultancy can be added as well.

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Service Agreements
Find out more about our service agreement options tailored for you
Learn more >>

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Advanced analysis and actionable insights


  • Basic User Training: Master the art of optimal PEAQ-ITC Automated usage and determine whether your measurements, sample preparation, and data are accurate and reliable – all while uncovering invaluable maintenance tips and tricks.  Find your online or offline classroom training course.
  • Customized Application Training: A training journey personalized to your application needs, covering aspects from sample taking and method development to data and results interpretation. Our application scientists share in-depth theory and best practices to make sure you’re getting the most out of your PEAQ-ITC Automated measurements and instruments.
  • Analytical and Consultancy Services: Our expert services place specialists and scientists at your disposal for method development, sample preparation, and certification. From oxides to sulfides, from trace to major elements, from particle sizing to molecular interaction – gain unparalleled analytical expertise. Find out more.
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Easy start and streamlined routine operations


  • Setting up for success: Our PEAQ-ITC Automated onboarding starts with our expert support engineers on-site, or if you’d like to set up the instrument yourself, our self-install will guide you. Either way, a comprehensive warranty and a starter training program are complimentary, so you can get straight to your important analyses.
  • Software and Manuals: Easily find manuals and our latest software versions online to benefit from new features and to stay up to date.
  • Webinars and App Notes: Access a comprehensive catalog of resources, such as recorded webinars, white papers, and app notes to support your analytical journey. 
  • Parts and Consumables - MyStoreOur online store makes access to your parts, consumables, accessories, and software convenient and efficient. Check availability and pricing, self-service quotes and order on card or account, 24/7. 
  • Support Portal: Our professional service team is ready to assist you – fast-track your service request on  Malvern Panalytical My Customer Support Portal or view your system details and service history at a glance.
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Want to speak to a service expert or find the services that are just right for you?


Reach out to our experts and evaluate your services needs and business risks by answering a few questions around the usage of your Malvern Panalytical instrument.


Contact Service Team

*Please note that the exact details of our services and their availability are determined by a variety of customer-specific factors, such as product type, product configuration, or location.

The Gold Standard for measuring binding affinity and stoichiometry

The Gold Standard for measuring binding affinity and stoichiometry

Direct, label free and in-solution measurements of binding affinity and thermodynamic parameters in a single experiment to meet the varied and demanding requirements of today’s life science laboratories.

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