INTEGRA offers a range of innovative solutions designed to reduce human error, enhance precision, and increase efficiency across next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows. Their automated pipetting robots, paired with MAG and HEATMAG, COLDPLATE, and BIOSHAKE modules integrate heating, cooling, and other functions into automated liquid handling systems, optimizing each step of the NGS process.
NGS Workflow Stages
NGS is a high-throughput technology used for sequencing DNA or RNA, enabling detailed genetic analysis for genomics, transcriptomics, and personalized medicine. The typical NGS workflow includes four key stages:
- Sample Preparation
- Library Preparation
- Quality Control
- Sequencing
Step 1: Sample Preparation – Aliquoting and Nucleic Acid Extraction
Aliquoting
Sample types, like blood or tissue, are transferred from primary tubes into formats suitable for nucleic acid extraction. For automation, the ASSIST PLUS pipetting robot paired with the VOYAGER adjustable tip-spacing pipette is ideal for reformatting samples, speeding up workflows with precision.
Nucleic Acid Extraction
Nucleic acids are often extracted using magnetic beads. The MAG and HEATMAG modules automate this process, ensuring high reproducibility and optimized results. HEATMAG adds controlled heating up to 65 °C, boosting extraction efficiency.
Step 2: Library Preparation – Converting Nucleic Acids for Sequencing
Library preparation involves three stages:
- Fragmentation – DNA is broken into smaller pieces.
- NGS Library Generation – Adapters and indexes are added.
- Size Selection – The library is purified, removing unwanted components.
Automating this process with the MAG and HEATMAG modules streamlines workflows, reducing human error and improving data reliability.
Step 3: Quality Control – Quantification, Normalization, and Pooling
Quality control ensures libraries are prepared correctly by quantifying DNA concentration, normalizing sample concentrations, and pooling them for sequencing. Automating these steps with the ASSIST PLUS pipetting robot ensures high accuracy and reproducibility in liquid handling.
Step 4: Sequencing
NGS sequencing is performed using various technologies like Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, or PacBio. For more information on these methods, check Integra’s detailed blogs on DNA sequencing technologies and Sanger vs. NGS.
MAG and HEATMAG Modules
The MAG and HEATMAG modules simplify magnetic bead purification in molecular and proteomics workflows. These powerful tools provide customizable height adjustments for optimal bead collection and minimal carryover. The HEATMAG module also combines magnetic separation with controlled heating, making it ideal for nucleic acid extraction. These modules can be integrated with pipetting platforms or used as standalone units.
Key Benefits of MAG and HEATMAG:
- Adjustable magnet heights for various volumes.
- Strong magnets for minimal bead carryover and high yields.
- HEATMAG combines magnetic separation with heating for efficient extraction.
- Seamless integration with VIAFLO pipetting platforms and full automation with ASSIST PLUS.
COLDPLATE and BIOSHAKE
The COLDPLATE and BIOSHAKE modules offer integrated heating, cooling, and shaking functions for greater automation. COLDPLATE provides precise temperature control from 0-99 °C, while BIOSHAKE offers orbital shaking up to 3000 rpm, ensuring reliable, reproducible results with minimal manual intervention.
