BD acquires Accuri Cytometers

Becton Dickinson has acquired personal flow cytometer developer Accuri Cytometers for an undisclosed sum. Flow cytometry is used to count and examine microscopic particles such as cells and chromosomes, and can be used to help diagnose disorders such as cancers, as well as having applications in other fields including molecular biology and immunology. Accuri (Ann Arbor, Michigan) markets the C6 system, designed to be portable and affordable, but with the capabilities of a conventional flow cytometer. The acquisition will expand Franklin Lakes, New Jersey-based BD's presence in the affordable personal flow cytometer segment, and the firm believes it will make the technique more accessible to a wider range of scientists and clinicians. The financial impact of the buy has already been incorporated into BD's 2011 financial guidance: in February, the firm predicted that revenues will increase by about 4% over fiscal 2010, and it expects earnings of $5.45-5.55 per share, representing an 11-13% year-on-year increase.