Genetic analysis instrumentation innovations built into the SeqStudio ™ Flex Genetic Analyzers

Abstract

The new Applied Biosystems™ SeqStudio ™ Flex Series Genetic Analyzer have improved the benchmark for research use only for Capillary Electrophoresis (CE) by providing innovative approaches to enhanced hand-free operation, flexibility, ease of use, data quality and connectivity. This newly designed 8 or 24 capillary system supports fragment sizing and DNA sequencing applications providing scientists with medium throughput technology for use in research applications. The steps from system set-up to size or base-called data have been simplified with hardware functionality and user-friendly software enhancements designed into this new CE system.We will discuss innovations related to ease of use including one button start-up, an on-board computer with touchscreen, intuitive software, easier to use capillary arrays, and desktop and cloud-based plate manager software. Innovations related to increased flexibility include continuous plate loading, automated plate linking that be able to maintain traceability from sample to result when using barcoded plates, urgent sample reprioritization, fragment and sequencing samples be run on the same plate, and multi-user support will also be discussed. In addition, gold standard fragment analysis and sequencing data quality has been enhanced through innovative algorithms providing autospectral calibrations, and off-scale recovery of data for fragment analysis. Innovative service and support functionality including remote troubleshooting with instrument system login capability, and on-board instrument help videos are included. Finally, we will touch upon new connectivity, which includes Thermo Fisher connect for remote monitoring, analysis, and data sharing as well as other functionality such as voice commands and Wi-Fi capability that the system will provide. The following summarizes highlights from the developmental validation performed to demonstrate the functionality of SeqStudio ™ Flex Series Genetic Analyzer.