DNA Amplification/Sequencing

Since the unraveling of DNA’s structure in 1953 and the completion of the human genome in 2001, scientists continue to find new ways of using genomic information. From basic research and medicine to ecology and forensics, DNA has proven to be both a complex molecule and a useful tool. DNA amplification via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gene sequencing have become staples of the modern researcher. Few techniques have done more to change and shape modern science. Scientists routinely employ these methods to advance their research. By utilizing Caliper’s liquid handling solutions, researchers are capable of processing many more DNA amplification and sequencing reactions.
 
The first step to studying an organism’s genetic information is DNA extraction, which can be done with Caliper’s Sciclone ALH 3000 Workstation. This system provides eight channels of pipetting that can work with volumes ranging from 100 nanoliters to 200 microliters, all while automating reactions in 96- or 384-well plates. Researchers can also use our Zephyr Liquid Handler for solid-phase extraction, which can collect DNA from blood, cell cultures, and tissues. The Zephyr, which was designed to fit easily on a lab bench, utilizes Maestro, the same powerful software that controls our Sciclone robots. Both the Sciclone and Zephyr can easily be used to setup PCR reactions and purify the reactions post amplification.  In just a few hours the LabChip GX and DNA Assay Kit can efficiently quantify and size PCR fragments, both in 96-well and 384-well formats.
 
DNA normalization is a common bottleneck in the modern high throughput genomics lab. Instead of relying on slow and clumsy eight-channel systems, Caliper has developed the Sciclone i1000.  The i1000 was designed with 96 channels that can be independently controlled, dispensing liquids ranging from 5–1,000 microliters. The i1000 can easily be integrated with a spectrophotometer to normalize DNA concentrations across a plate in “one shot”.
 
We have engineered a suite of products that help scientists go from DNA extraction to sequencing, all with improving sample manipulation and data quality. We have also considered the varying needs of our customers, by offering choices that range in footprint size and throughput capabilities.