Automated Modular Platform Processes Nucleic Acids and Proteins

A novel modular platform offers laboratories a new level of flexibility and safety in automated processing of a broad range of samples.

Called the QIAsymphony SP, the platform allows users to load samples in different formats, and to isolate, purify, and prepare target analytes for analysis. This step is the most challenging of any molecular analysis. QIAsymphony SP was designed to meet a labs' flexibility and workflow needs. The system can handle a large variety of starting materials and a wide range of input volumes. More than 40 protocols to process DNA, RNA, and proteins have been optimized for use on the platform.

QIAsymphony SP is the first system in Qiagen's (Frankfurt, Germany) new series of modular instruments that can be integrated to automate entire workflows. The novel platform is the result of the largest development program ever undertaken at Qiagen.

The system incorporates many new features such as processing continuous sample racks, reagents, and consumables, and has the ability to perform several purification procedures on one batch of samples by reloading reagents. The system has a wide bandwidth of throughput settings, from a few a day to several hundred. The most complicated processes can be operated by a novice and there is no need retrain laboratory staff. Convenient touch screen operations and bar codes allow easy tracking of reagents, guaranteeing maximum safety and reproducible results.

QIAsymphony SP received the New Product Award (NPA) Designation of the Association for Laboratory Automation (ALA; Geneva, IL, USA). The award was presented to Qiagen on January 29, 2008, at LabAutomation in Palm Springs, CA (USA); an international conference and exhibit for laboratory technologies, where QIAsymphony SP was officially launched on January 28.



Related Links:
Qiagen
Association for Laboratory Automation