New NIMBUS System Automates Vacuum-Based SPE

Hamilton Robotics introduces MICROLAB® NIMBUS NVS (NIMBUS Vacuum System), an integrated platform for automated vacuum-based separations. NIMBUS NVS integrates liquid handling workstation capabilities with a vacuum manifold, pump and collection device for solid-phase extraction (SPE) of analytes from complex biological mixtures in 96-well plate format. NIMBUS NVS is ideal for drug discovery applications such as compound isolation and metabolite testing, as well as in forensic toxicology and clinical research.

Automated SPE on the NIMBUS platform delivers highly reproducible isolations, walkaway operation and higher throughput. Vacuum-based SPE offers many advantages over syringe-based filter techniques, including higher recovery and reproducibility. It also eliminates the need for expensive labware and the hazardous organic materials required in liquid-liquid extraction.

“SPE is a commonly used technique in many life science laboratories, where there is a growing demand for a more robust, automated method,” explains Rick Luedke, product manager for Hamilton Robotics. “NIMBUS NVS delivers the throughput and reproducibility to meet these needs.”

With the NIMBUS NVS, the analyte binds to a filter matrix embedded within a 96-well extraction plate. Upon completion of a series of wash steps, an extraction reagent is added to remove the analyte from the matrix. A final vacuum step is then performed to transfer the now purified analyte into a 96-well collection plate.

NIMBUS is an affordable, compact, automated 96-channel pipetting workstation that fits on any benchtop and in many fume hoods. An optional labware gripper arm with extended off-deck reach enables seamless integration with a number of third-party devices, and a new graphical user interface provides easy instrument control and method programming for users of any experience level.