QIAGEN Launches New Instrument to Enhance Laboratory Workflow

Qiagen launches the QIAsymphony AS. This new module of the QIAsymphony series provides fully automated setup of QIAGEN assays and PCR Kits and combines QIAGEN's experience in sample and assay technologies on a single platform.

The QIAsymphony AS extends the capabilities of the QIAsymphony SP sample purification system and simplifies routine work processes through the same easy-to-use, intuitive software. "The new system addresses the complexity of laboratory processes and logistics of PCR assay setup in a straightforward way while maintaining the high performance of QIAGEN real-time and end-point PCR kits and PCR assays," says Rafael Alvarez, Senior Global Product Manager for Automated Systems at QIAGEN.

For integrated operation, samples processed on the QIAsymphony SP can be automatically transferred to the QIAsymphony AS, which reduces manual handling steps as well as documentation to free up valuable time.

"My work is dependent on accurate and sensitive detection of pathogens to speed the way to appropriate therapies. Therefore, reliable tools are crucial," says Gavin Wall, Clinical Scientist, Virology Department, Barts and The London NHS Trust. "My lab uses a portfolio of QIAGEN instruments and kits, including being a field test site for the QIAsymphony AS."

Across any field of work - genotyping, epigenetics, miRNA research - lab work requires precision and accuracy and a demand for complete confidence in results. Over the last two decades QIAGEN has evolved from a sample preparation company to offer complete automated workflow solutions up to detection. The company is working constantly on optimizing the kits and assays by ensuring reliable analysis and a proven end result that can be used in downstream processes and compared across laboratories worldwide.

QIAGEN workflow applications:

Genotyping. PCR-based methods are an essential tool for detection and analysis of genetic differences, such as typing of disease or cancer loci, biomarker discovery and pathogen detection. The QIAxcel system fully automates sensitive, high-resolution capillary electrophoresis for up to 96 samples per run, and can perform DNA fragment analysis in as little as ten minutes for 12 samples. Preprogrammed methods, in combination with the corresponding gel cartridges, allow separation and analysis of a variety of nucleic acids, including single or multiple PCR fragments, DNA digested with restriction endonucleases, synthesized oligonucleotides, total RNA and cRNA.

Epigenetics. Research on differences in gene regulation and expression requires a closer look at the methylated region. QIAGEN's complete workflow allows researchers to continue looking at the specific sequence of those regions through Pyrosequencing. The PyroMark Q24 uses proven Pyrosequencing technology for real-time, sequence-based detection and quantification for genetic testing and epigenetic methylation analysis. The PyroMark instruments combine both quantification and sequencing for reliable results in minutes.

miRNA Research. miRNAs play a role in many diverse biological processes and are associated with several cancers and other diseases. QIAGEN offers the miScript PCR system, a three-component system that covers all steps of conversion of miRNA and mRNA into cDNA. Used in combination with the Rotor-Gene Q real-time cycler, the system delivers increased sensitivity, specificity and dynamic range in detecting miRNAs. Recently, QIAGEN released the miScript PreCursor assay, primers for detecting precursor miRNAs.