Bench-Top Robotic Cell-Free DNA Extraction Workstation Automates NIPT Workflows

Yourgene Health (Manchester, UK) has launched the Yourgene MagBench Automated DNA Extraction Instrument and Kit, designed to provide clinical laboratories with an efficient and cost-effective bench-top robotic workstation for cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extraction. This system is specifically optimized for Yourgene's Sage 32 NIPT Workflow, offering a comprehensive end-to-end solution, from sample handling to generating reports. This integrated approach enables clinical laboratories to offer a more accurate and competitive non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) service.

The Sage Prenatal Screen, a key component of this workflow, facilitates the safe and accurate genetic assessment of placental DNA in maternal blood using next-generation sequencing, delivering results within three days. The NIPT workflow begins with the extraction of DNA from maternal plasma using the MagBench instrument. Subsequent steps include library preparation, enrichment, sequencing, and Sage Link analysis, which estimates the risk of fetal trisomy 21, 18, or 13, rare autosomal aneuploidies, sex chromosome aneuploidies, and clinically significant microdeletions.

Image: The MagBench automated DNA extraction instrument (Photo courtesy of Yourgene Health)

The MagBench Automated DNA Extraction Instrument is user-friendly, quick to install, and features an intuitive touchscreen interface with pre-programmed protocols. It offers efficient run times and flexible sample throughput to meet the laboratory's testing requirements. The MagBench Extraction Kit includes sample and elution tubes, pre-sealed cartridges containing all necessary reagents for cfDNA purification, and individually packaged tip sets with a unique cross-notch design to ensure precise volume pipetting. This system enhances the automation of DNA extraction, reducing manual intervention and the risk of human error. Additionally, it incorporates single-use tip disposal and a built-in UV lamp for decontamination between runs, thereby minimizing the potential for cross-contamination. These features collectively contribute to improved pipetting accuracy and consistency, resulting in a reduced failure rate. The MagBench solution is available to Sage customers in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions.

“Yourgene is committed to delivering best-in-class NIPT solutions, where precision and quality assurance are key,” said Dr. Rob Henke, Vice President of Sales, Asia-Pacific at Yourgene Health. “MagBench enables an economical and automated NIPT workflow. Reducing manual procedures improves user experience, facilitating true walkaway time while minimizing the risk of contamination and improving testing accuracy. This decreases the number of screening failures, greatly improves efficiency, and helps lower expectant parents’ anxiety.”

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