Designing and implementing a large-scale high-throughput Total Laboratory Automation (TLA) system for DNA database construction

Abstract

This article describes a Total Laboratory Automation (TLA) system for DNA sample (FTA sample collection paper cwards or whole blood) processing, including barcoding, FTA card hole-punching or whole blood DNA extraction, PCR amplification, CE analysis and data acquisition process. This system designed to meet the needs of massive DNA database construction. Daily sample handling capacity for this TLA system is 800pcs (within 8h) to 2400pcs (within 24h). No such scaled system has previously used as STR analysis. Thus, it was important to find a suitable proportion numbers for different kind of components within the TLA system and to achieve the maximum efficiency as well as to make sure the system could achieve and maintain stable performance in continuously handling substantial DNA samples through performance test and stability test, in order to meet the needs of massive DNA database construction. In addition, the TLA system incorporates a novel track line system named RackRunner, a robotic access to all components in the pipeline, designed to transfer 96-well microplates whilst prevent all kinds of cross-contamination during STR tests. Experiments were undertaken to prove the performance of these factors in maintaining the STR test efficiency and prevent cross-contamination. This TLA system is also programmable for NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) tests in massive DNA Genome database construction without major changes.