Automated Massively Parallel Sequencing Library & Sample Preparation in Forensics
The detection power of massively parallel sequencing (MPS), also called next generation sequencing (NGS), is invaluable when forensic samples are degraded, limited or are mixtures. The VERSA 1100 MPS automated liquid handling platform maximizes the benefits of NGS sequencing. VERSA’s built in HEPA filtration system and optimized liquid transfer process, greatly reduces the risk of cross-contamination to ensure accurate, reproducible results. Instruments come preprogrammed with your protocols to streamline the automation of next generation sequencing library preparation protocols for commercially available kits.
Independently Validated
Application Note Highlighting VERSA 1100 MPS Users Automating Library Preparation for the ForenSeq DNA Signature Library Prep Kit
Download this application note showing user generated data to see how the VERSA 1100 MPS automated NGS library and sample preparation workstation streamlines workflows and improves data quality.
Application Note: Verogen Verification of Automating ForenSeq DNA Signature Prep Kit on VERSA 1100 MPS Liquid Handler
Check out Verogen’s in-house verification of the VERSA 1100 MPS capabilities to automate their ForenSeq workflow.
Specifications
| VERSA 1100 MPS | |
| Deck Capacity | 15 |
| Pipetting Head (Single Channel Function, Disposable Tip) | 8 or 96 channel or 4 channel with independent Z-axis |
| ReagentDrop | 8 channels |
| Magnetic Block | 1 |
| Temperature Regulation Block | 2 |
| Reagent Cooling Block | 1 |
| Plate Shaker | 1 |
| Gripper | 1 |
| 96-Tip Aspirator | Optional |
| Liquid Level Sensing | Optional |
| HEPA/UV/LED Enclosure | Included |
| Width x Depth x Height (cm) | 98.5 x 75.2 x 108.2 |
| Weight (kg) | 200 |
Overall Workflow
Frequently Asked Questions
No, we have validated VERSA for automating different applications and have not observed any cross-contamination issues. VERSA automated NGS library prep workstation utilizes disposable tips to eliminate cross-contamination, additionally the aspirating and dispensing speed is carefully adjusted to avoid splashing or carry-over contamination. VERSA is also equipped with HEPA filter and UV light to keep the environment contamination-free.
Yes, the VERSA Automated Nucleic Acid Extraction and Purification workstation is equipped with a Heater-Cooler Plate and Heater-Shaker that can be used for incubating samples at temperatures from 2 – 92°C.
All the steps from DNA/RNA purification and cleanup, DNA/RNA fragment size selection, enzymatic reaction setup, library construction, normalization and pooling, single and multiplex real-time PCR setup, sequencing reaction setup can be automated on VERSA. Transferring the plate to thermocycler for PCR reaction and centrifuging steps should be done manually.
Yes, when manual intervention is required, a pause message can be defined to pop up on the monitor to notify the user about the next manual steps. VERSA Automated NGS library and sample prep system can also email the pause notifications to users who should take responsibility for the step.
No, the ReagentDrop dispensing speed on VERSA automated NGS library and sample preparation workstation is always optimized for reagents with different consistency to avoid splashing.
Our VERSA automated workstations are very flexible and open systems and are compatible with almost all the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) library and sample preparation kits, reagents and labware in the market.
VERSA is a very flexible and open system and is capable of preparing libraries / samples for any NGS instrument.