SPT Labtech and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory’s Genomics Core Facility (EMBL GeneCore) have joined forces to push the boundaries of fully automated genomics workflows. This partnership leverages SPT Labtech’s innovative firefly®+ liquid handling platform, recently installed at EMBL GeneCore, a prominent center for genomics service.
Enhancing Genomic Capabilities
With the integration of the firefly+ platform, EMBL GeneCore will enhance its ability to develop novel protocols while improving and validating existing workflows. This upgrade is especially beneficial for handling low-input and metagenomic samples—areas of increasing importance in genomics research. The firefly+ platform is a versatile and compact solution, combining various functions such as pipetting, dispensing, incubating, and shaking into a single instrument.
Streamlining Workflows
The automated protocols utilize New England Biolabs® (NEB) library preparation kits, NEBNext®, which are designed to produce high-yield, high-quality libraries across a diverse input range. These kits facilitate the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) protocols that are low in bias and high in sensitivity, all while minimizing plastic waste.
A Robust Foundation for Automation
The combination of SPT Labtech’s firefly+ platform and NEB’s library preparation kits lays a solid foundation for achieving fully walkaway automation. This integration simplifies workflows, allowing laboratories to scale their automation efforts more effectively, thus increasing productivity and efficiency.
Commitment to Innovation
Vladimir Benes, Head of the Genomics Core Facility at EMBL, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting that the implementation of the firefly+ platform highlights their dedication to scientific advancement. He emphasized that fully automated workflows will eliminate key bottlenecks in genomics, leading to the development of high-quality, scalable NGS protocols.
Expanding Access in Europe
Morten Frost, Chief Commercial Officer at SPT Labtech, remarked that this collaboration represents a pivotal move towards achieving comprehensive automated workflows for a broader range of applications, including environmental studies and rare species research. He is particularly excited about increasing access to the firefly+ platform within the vibrant biotech ecosystem in Heidelberg.
Collaborative Opportunities
Bjoern Textor, PhD, from New England Biolabs GmbH, highlighted the synergy created by integrating their library preparation kits with SPT Labtech’s platform at EMBL GeneCore. He noted that this collaboration presents an opportunity to accelerate scalable DNA and RNA sequencing workflows while addressing persistent challenges in genomics research.
Conclusion
The partnership between SPT Labtech and EMBL GeneCore signals a significant leap forward in laboratory automation within genomics. As the field continues to evolve, such collaborations will play a crucial role in enhancing research capabilities and driving innovation, ultimately benefitting the broader scientific community.
- Key Takeaways:
- SPT Labtech and EMBL GeneCore collaborate to enhance genomics automation.
- The firefly+ platform streamlines complex workflows for diverse applications.
- NEB’s library preparation kits ensure high-quality, low-bias sequencing.
- The partnership aims to resolve bottlenecks in genomic research.
- Expanded access to automation tools supports innovation in Europe.
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