NEW YORK (GenomeWeb News) – Hamilton Robotics said today that it will collaborate with Promega to develop an automated system for isolating genomic DNA from large-volume blood samples.
A new system that combines Hamilton's Microlab Star liquid handling technology and Promega's systems and reagents will increase throughput for applications such as pharmacogenomics, genetics research, and biobanking, the firms said. Hamilton said it expects to launch the new system later this year.
Due to a "recent overall trend toward miniaturization," Hamilton said, genetic analysis applications now often require that researchers isolate DNA from large sample volumes.
The technologies the companies plan to integrate, including Hamilton's 5ml independent pipetting channels and 5ml disposable tips, address the specific challenges of handling large volumes of liquid, Reno, Nev.-based Hamilton said. The firm also said that, when compared to earlier automated techniques, Promega's new technologies allow for a robust automated process, increased recovery, higher concentration, and enhanced purity of genomic DNA isolated from large-volume blood samples.
Hamilton and Promega expect to launch the new system later this year.