Discover how the I.DOT Liquid Handler streamlines NGS sample preparation, minimizes waste, and maximizes the potential of NGS experiments for research.
Technological advancements have greatly improved the way we conduct biomedical research, with next-generation sequencing (NGS) being a prime example1. However, NGS sample preparation is tedious and error-prone, so we need new technologies to allow it to reach its full potential.
Genomics lies at the heart of biology and can tell part of the story about who we are and where we come from. This makes NGS an incredibly powerful tool for understanding ourselves and gaining insights into many diseases that arise due to aberrations at the genome level2. NGS helps us solve the genetic puzzle that defines diseases like cancer and rare inherited disorders (Fig. 1).
Figure 1. NGS allows us to discover the genetic route of different diseases, including cancer, which is caused by mutations within the genome.
Despite its ability to answer some of our most pressing questions, NGS remains a challenging technique. Errors in NGS sample preparation, such as pipetting inconsistencies and sample contamination, lead to untrustworthy results, while mistakes during workflows can lead to significant losses of time and resources3. These errors delay the discovery process and ultimately prolong the suffering of patients.
Here, we explore how the I.DOT Liquid Handler uses a combination of microfluidics and automation to streamline research efforts, removing common sources of error while maintaining sample integrity.
The I.DOT Liquid Handler has emerged as a powerful tool for optimizing NGS sample preparation and expediting research efforts. Its batch-processing capabilities mean it can support high-throughput NGS experiments and is easily scalable to meet the demands of modern research projects.
Microfluidics focuses on the accurate manipulation of very low liquid volumes. This field has revolutionized biological research, which relies on the precise dispensing of degradation-prone substances, such as nucleic acids4. The I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser's microfluidics capabilities give users significant advantages.
At DISPENDIX, we take sustainability seriously. That’s why we designed the I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser for non-contact dispensing volumes as low as 8 nL. This means the need for pipette tips in NGS sample preparation is significantly reduced5. It also makes the device fantastic for minimization, meaning researchers can save money on reagents by downscaling from supplier SOPs.
Generating samples for biological research can be challenging. Patient-derived samples are particularly valuable because they can give direct insights into disease. By working with very low volumes, the I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser means that more of the sample can be used for other analyses. This capability can be invaluable when performing NGS sample preparation for rare patient-derived samples.
Doing something slowly is often synonymous with doing it right. But with the I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser, this is thankfully not the case. The device is automated, which means it combines speed with high-quality results, so users benefit from streamlined workflows without compromising quality.
Manual pipetting is a staple of biomedical research, but as anyone who has manually pipetted a 384-well plate will tell you, it’s time-consuming, prone to human error, and (let’s face it) boring6. Time is a researcher's most valuable resource, and by adopting automation, researchers can increase research efficiency, free up their time, and reduce costs associated with reagents and disposables like pipette tips (Fig. 2).
Figure 2. The I.DOT Liquid Handler allows researchers to use their time more efficiently while ensuring accuracy in liquid handling and NGS sample preparation.
Automated systems, like the I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser, make research go faster. It’s that simple, but it goes beyond being faster than manual pipetting. Automation frees up researchers' time to analyze data quicker and generate new questions, allowing all aspects of the research effort to move faster.
The I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser lets you get the most out of your samples by using less and ensuring that they are processed appropriately. Prioritizing sample viability in this way minimizes the need to repeat NGS sample preparation and respects patients who may have generously donated samples for research.
The I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser's DropDetection technology detects and counts every drop dispensed during a run, ensuring that no samples or reagents go to waste. The device ensures a maximum dead volume of 1 µL, vastly outperforming traditional liquid handlers.
Non-contact dispensing is central to the I.DOT Liquid Handler's ability to maintain sample integrity. This feature greatly diminishes the chances of cross-contamination, which is a primary cause of inaccuracy in downstream data analysis7. By requiring lower sample volumes for analysis, you can create more aliquots of your samples for future studies, greatly reducing degradation due to repeated freeze/thaw cycles.
NGS is fundamental for biomedical research efforts. However, errors in NGS sample preparation and human inconsistencies have hindered its potential. The I.DOT Non-Contact Dispenser is a groundbreaking solution for building reliability in NGS workflows. Its automated microfluidics system maximizes sample integrity and reduces waste while accelerating research. Built-in volume verification and non-contact dispensing ensure accurate results and preserve precious samples. Liquid handling automation is a win-win for scientists because it helps to generate more accurate results in a fraction of the time.
Ready to conquer NGS sample preparation with confidence and efficiency? Discover how the I.DOT Liquid Handler empowers your research. Book a demo today!
Discover how liquid handling automation with the I.DOT Liquid Handler revolutionizes NGS workflows, reducing errors, and optimizing resource...
Discover how the I.DOT Liquid Handler is helping researchers save time and money in NGS library preparation workflows.
Automation using the I.DOT Liquid Handler and G.PURE NGS Clean-Up Device revolutionizes your NGS workflow.
