PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a method used to amplify specific DNA sequences, producing millions or even billions of copies from a tiny initial sample. It’s a cornerstone technique in a wide range of applications, including:
Molecular Diagnostics: Detecting pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, and identifying genetic mutations.
Genomics and Research: Sequencing DNA, analyzing gene expression, or studying genetic variations.
Forensics: Amplifying trace amounts of DNA from crime scenes for identification.
Biotechnology and Drug Development: Cloning, mutagenesis, or screening for target molecules.
A standard PCR workflow involves mixing reagents like template DNA, primers, nucleotides, and polymerase in precise ratios, followed by thermal cycling to amplify the target sequence. While straightforward in theory, the process is tedious and prone to human error when done manually—making automation an ideal solution.
While manual PCR setup has served labs for decades, automation with i.prep offers transformative advantages:
1. Precision and Reproducibility
PCR success hinges on precise reagent dispensing. Even minor errors in pipetting can cause reaction failures or inconsistent results. i.prep eliminates this variability by dispensing with high accuracy, ensuring each reaction is perfectly prepared.
2. Time Savings
Manually preparing multiple PCR reactions is labour intensive and can tie up valuable lab hours. Using i.prep to automate this process, allowing you to set up dozens or even hundreds of reactions in significantly less time, frees up your team to focus on data analysis or other high-value tasks.
3. Low Cost, High Value
i.prep is designed to be an affordable, compact, solution without compromising on quality or features. Its compact design and competitive pricing make it accessible for labs of all sizes, from small academic teams to high-throughput industrial facilities.
4. User-Friendly Software
i.prep’s intuitive software simplifies workflow design. Predefined operations and template workflows, and the no code focus, makes it easy for users of all skill levels to set up protocols, minimising the learning curve and improving productivity. Users can set up and tweak workflows without needing to contract in third party application developers.
5. Open API for Seamless Integration
With its open API, i.prep can integrate directly with third-party control and scheduling systems, making it a flexible choice for modern labs. Whether you’re running a fully automated facility or connecting it to a broader workflow management system, i.prep fits seamlessly into your lab’s ecosystem.
6. Contamination Control
Manual PCR setups can introduce contamination risks, especially in sensitive applications like diagnostics. i.prep minimizes human interaction with samples and reagents, reducing contamination risk and ensuring the reliability of your data.
7. Scalability and Flexibility
From single reactions to full plates, i.prep is built for both small and high-throughput companion workflows. Its compact design makes it suitable for labs with limited space, while its robust and intuitive functionality scales with your needs.