Introduction/Rationale: Each year, 800+ Phase I oncology trials launch, and ~75% require custom cytometry panels to quantify immune cell frequencies. Multiparameter cytometry panel development can require evaluation of >700 parameters (40 markers × 6 titrations × 3 metrics) to optimize staining in multiparameter assays. Traditional workflows take 3–12 months, delaying sample collection and PK/PD, exploratory, MOA, and biomarker data generation. To address this, we developed Programmable Panels, a web-based, self-service platform enabling rapid cytometry panel design.
Methods: A web-based platform was developed to enable rapid design of custom immune profiling panels. Users define disease-relevant cell types, stimulation conditions, and target markers using an integrated marker library that is updated in real time as antibody clone–conjugate combinations are verified across sample types and fixation methods. Antibody clones are recommended based on live versus fixed samples, assay application, and historical performance. An interactive gating hierarchy is generated during panel assembly to define population structure and downstream analysis. Optional expert cytometrist support is available for troubleshooting and optimization.
Results: Using this platform, custom cytometry panel design and build time was reduced significantly. Automated clone selection and real-time gating visualization minimized manual review of >700 parameters per panel and reduced design errors. Both self-guided and expert-assisted workflows supported rapid iteration, enabling earlier study initiation and consistent panel configuration across clinical and translational use cases.
Conclusion: By reducing cytometry panel development timelines, this approach accelerates study start-up and data generation for PK/PD, exploratory, MOA, and biomarker analyses. The platform enables scalable, reproducible immune monitoring by reducing manual panel build effort and improving the quality of cytometry panel design.
