- Explore 3072
- Explore 384
- Panels & Assays
- Workflow
- Advantages
- Data & QC
- Samples
- FAQ
What is Olink Explore 3072?
Olink Explore 3072 is the most comprehensive proteomics solution in the Olink portfolio, offering an unmatched ultra-high multiplex protein profiling capability. This platform combines eight Olink Explore 384 panels to create a single workflow covering 3,000+ protein assays, streamlining everything from biomarker discovery to drug development studies.
Key Advantages of Olink Explore 3072 Technology:
- 3,000+ proteins measured per run – comprehensive systems-level view
- 8 panels combined – enabling cross-pathway insights in a single experiment
- 1–3 µL sample requirement – suitable for rare or precious specimens
- Consistent data output – PEA-driven NPX values compatible across batches
Whether you're compiling a complete assay list for large cohort studies or need a scalable proteomics platform for translational research, Olink Explore 3072 assay technology provides a data-rich, high-confidence solution for modern biomedical projects.
What is Olink Explore 384?
Olink Explore 384 panels are the building blocks of the Explore proteomics platform, designed for targeted, high-multiplex protein profiling. Each Explore 384 panel measures 384 carefully selected proteins from as little as 1–3 µL of sample, making it ideal for both focused studies and as part of the Explore 3072 assay combination.
Thematic Panel Design
The 384-panel format is organized into disease- and pathway-focused themes, allowing researchers to choose exactly the coverage they need—or combine multiple panels for broader insights.
Key Features of Olink Explore 384 Panels:
- 384 proteins per panel – broad, yet targeted coverage
- Compatible with serum, plasma, CSF, and other biofluids
- Uses the same PEA technology as Explore 3072 for seamless data integration
Olink Explore 3072/384 Assay List
Cardiometabolic
Inflammation
Neurology
Oncology
Explore 3072/1536 Combinations
Cardiometabolic
Olink Explore 384 Cardiometabolic Panel
Biomarkers for cardiovascular and metabolic health (lipids, hormones, vascular biology)
Olink Explore 384 Cardiometabolic II Panel
Expanded panel for advanced cardiometabolic pathways and novel markers
Inflammation
Olink Explore 384 Inflammation Panel
Covers cytokines and chemokines for inflammatory response research
Olink Explore 384 Inflammation II Panel
Adds deeper coverage of immune mediators and inflammatory regulators
Neurology
Olink Explore 384 Neurology Panel
Focused on CNS biomarkers and neurodegenerative disease proteins
Olink Explore 384 Neurology II Panel
Expands on neuroinflammation and synaptic signalling proteins
Oncology
Olink Explore 384 Oncology Panel
Tumor biology, cell cycle, and cancer-related protein pathways
Olink Explore 384 Oncology II Panel
Adds broader cancer biomarker coverage and regulatory proteins
Explore 3072/1536 Combinations
Olink Explore 3072 (8 Panel Combinations)
The full Explore platform: eight panels combined, covering 3,072 proteins for the broadest pathway insights.
Olink Explore 1536 (4 Panel Combinations)
Combine four 384 panels for profiling 1,536 proteins in one run—ideal for mid-scale biomarker discovery.
Workflow of Olink Proteomics
Why Choose Olink Explore 3072/384?
Multiplex Power – Measure 3,072 proteins in one workflow with Olink Explore 3072, or focus on 384-protein panels for targeted studies.
Proven Technology – Olink's Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) paired with NGS readout ensures high specificity and ultra-sensitive detection.
Minimal Sample Volume – Requires as little as 1–3 µL per assay, preserving precious or limited specimens.
Consistent Data – All panels produce normalized NPX values, enabling cross-panel comparisons and multi-cohort studies.
Scalable Configurations – Start with one Olink Explore 384 panel, expand to 1536 or the full 3072-panel combination as your research grows.
Cost-Efficient Multiplexing – Analyze hundreds or thousands of proteins in a single run, optimizing cost per sample.
Olink Explore 3072/384 Data Visualization
- Comprehensive NPX Data Table – Normalized Protein eXpression (NPX) values for every protein across all samples.
- High-Resolution Data Visualizations – Volcano Plot, Heatmap, and Scatter Plot for quick interpretation.
- Quality Control (QC) Summary – Internal/external control performance and pass/fail status for each sample.
- Assay & Panel Information – List of included Olink Explore 384 panels and combined 3072 assays.
- Method Overview – Brief description of PEA technology and NGS-based readout used in the analysis.
- Exportable Data Files – Excel/CSV tables and a PDF summary report ready for further research or presentations.

Sample Requirements
Sample Type | Minimum Volume per Panel | Matrix / Notes | Storage Conditions |
Serum | 50 µL | Use clot activator tubes; avoid haemolysis | Store at −80 °C |
Plasma | 50 µL | EDTA- or heparin plasma preferred | Store at −80 °C |
CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) | 50 µL | Collect under sterile conditions | Store at −80 °C |
Cell Culture Supernatant | 50–100 µL | Clarify by centrifugation to remove debris | Store at −20 °C to −80 °C |
Urine (optional) | 100 µL | Collect midstream sample, centrifuge before use | Store at −80 °C |
Other Matrices | Case-by-case | Contact us for guidance (e.g., saliva, synovial fluid, tissue homogenates) | Store at −80 °C |
Sample Handling Guidelines
- Avoid freeze–thaw cycles: More than two freeze–thaw events may affect protein stability.
- Labeling: Each tube must be clearly labeled with sample ID, matrix type, and collection date.
- Shipping: Send samples on dry ice to maintain cold chain integrity.
- Volume buffer: Provide an extra 10–15 µL for QC and repeat testing if needed.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Olink Explore 384 and Olink Explore 3072?
The Olink Explore 384 panels each measure 384 proteins in a focused biological area. The Olink Explore 3072 assay combines eight Explore 384 panels into one workflow, enabling the analysis of more than 3,000 proteins across multiple pathways.
What technologies power Olink Explore 3072 assays?
All Explore panels use PEA (Proximity Extension Assay) technology with next-generation sequencing (NGS) readout, delivering high sensitivity and specificity even for low-abundance proteins.
How comprehensive is the Olink Explore 3072 assay list?
Can I purchase individual Olink Explore 384 panels instead of the full 3072 set?
How does the Olink Explore 3072 platform ensure reliable results?
What types of samples can be used with Olink Explore 384 and 3072 panels?
Does Olink Explore 3072 pricing vary by project?
Are Olink Explore panels suitable for preclinical animal studies?
What output data format will I receive?
How does Olink reduce off-target effects in its assays?