Adjust these values for your application to work with different column types, between 1 and 8 columns, wash volumes, number of fractions to collect, and the fraction volume.
Ascent Instrument
Automated reproducible EV isolation
Ascent Instrument
Automated, high-throughput EV isolation with SEC columns
- Run up to 8 columns in parallel
- Collect up to 12 fractions per column
- Wash up to 8 columns
- Compatible with different column types
- Programmable fraction collection sequences
Programmable fraction collection
Optimize your fraction collection for your application.
Watch Ascent in action
1. Set run parameters
2. Load columns and tubes
3. Wash
4. Add sample
5. Fractionate
Apex SEC columns
High performance isolation
EV elution profile of 8 Apex 6B columns, which are optimized for consistent drip speed. CV (EV yield) =4.3%
Apex column reproducibility
The Apex SEC columns are optimized for a consistent drip speed resulting in reproducible EV elution profile.
Pairing the Apex columns with the Ascent and Summit instruments further minimizes variability in EV elution across columns.
Technical information
The Ascent instrument is an automated high-throughput fraction collector for isolation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) with SEC columns.
It can operate up to 8 columns simultaneously and is compatible with Apex columns as well as other brands. The programmable fraction collection allows you to optimize collection for any application.
| SEC column capability | Apex 4B Apex 6B Apex MM Apex mini Pack your own |
| Compatible with qEV™ SEC columns (qEV™ is a trademark of Izon Science®; not affiliated). | qEVoriginal qEV1 qEVsingle |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 397mm x 364mm x 331mm 15-5/8” x 14-5/8” x 13” |
| Weight | 13.6 Kg / 30.0 lbs. |
| Input Power | 100~240 VAC (50-60Hz) |
| Power Supply Unit | 24 Vdc, 2.1A, 50W |
| Environmental Temperature | 10°C -24°C (50°F-75°F) |
| Relative Humidity | 30-80% RH |
| Bottle Capacity | 1000 mL |
| Connectivity | USB-C (for software updates) |
| Chemical Compatibility | PBS, DI, 70% ethanol, dilute bleach |
Book a virtual Demo
- Review your EV isolation needs with our EV scientists
- Demonstration of how the Ascent works
- Review of Apex column optimization for downstream applications
- Answer any questions you might have
Need higher throughput and EV concentration?
Check out how Summit compares to the Ascent instrument.
Ascent
Summit
Best For Flexible sample prep Large cohorts and standardized workflows
Throughput Focus Moderate High
SEC Format Columns Plates or Columns
Sample Capacity 1–8 samples 4–48 samples
Automation Level Manual sample loading required Fully automated operation
Fraction Collection 1–12 fractions per sample 1–3 fractions per sample
Concentration Handling Performed externally Integrated capability
Footprint Compact Larger, designed for scale
Latest Ascent Application Notes
Ascent-coupled ultrafiltration enables concentrated EV recovery after SEC with Apex columns
Ascent-coupled ultrafiltration enables concentrated EV recovery after SEC with Apex columns
Read More
When Every Fraction Counts: How the Ascent Platform Transforms EV Isolation
When Every Fraction Counts: How the Ascent Platform Transforms EV Isolation
Read More
Automation (for) the Lab People: How Everest Biolabs is Revolutionizing EV Isolation with SEC Automation
Automation (for) the Lab People: How Everest Biolabs is Revolutionizing EV Isolation with SEC Automation
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to purify samples on the Ascent?
Running 1 or 8 Apex columns takes slightly longer than an hour. Since columns are run in parallel, it takes about the same time for any number of columns. First, the columns are washed to remove buffer containing antimicrobial agents. This step takes ~1 hour. Then the fractions are collected. This takes ~5-15 minutes depending on how many fractions are collected. Apex 4B and 6B columns have the same run time.
Can the Ascent run columns from other suppliers?
Yes. In addition to the Apex columns, the Ascent is compatible with qEVoriginal, qEV1, and qEVsingle columns. We also have Apex empty plastic kit with everything you need to make your own columns. If you would like support for additional columns, please contact us.
Can the fraction collection sequence on the Ascent be customized?
Yes. The fraction collection sequence on the Ascent is programmable. The user can adjust the discard volume and the fraction volume according to the input sample volume.
What is Column Saver?
Column Saver automatically keeps columns hydrated. This prevents your columns from drying out if you are not near the instrument when the wash or fraction collection completes. The Column Saver slowly drips buffer into the columns while the Ascent waits for an action from the user (adding samples or removing the columns when it completes).
How does the Ascent accurately collect the correct fraction volume?
The Ascent has a high-precision liquid handling system combined with an advanced optical drop detection platform to precisely collect fractions. This approach is robust to vibrations and can be used on any lab bench.
