Hamilton Robotics and Promega Corporation announced that the two companies will collaborate in the development of an automated system for the isolation of genomic DNA from large-volume blood samples. Based on Hamilton's Microlab Star liquid handling technology and Promega systems and reagents, the new offering will increase throughput for large-volume applications such as biobanking, pharmacogenomics and genetic research.

"Hamilton's air displacement pipetting technology offers a number of unique advantages over other robotics systems," explained Jeff Briganti, strategic marketing manager for Promega. "We have already successfully collaborated with them to create and optimize automated protocols for several applications. This collaboration takes the relationship one step further toward the co-development of an entire system."

Although life science research has seen a recent overall trend toward miniaturization, several genetic analysis applications require the ability to isolate DNA from large sample volumes. Automated large-volume liquid handling poses specific challenges that Hamilton has been able to address, most recently with the introduction of its 5ml independent pipetting channels and 5ml disposable tips for the Microlab Star platform. Promega's new method employs next-generation technology and novel chemistry, allowing for a more robust automated process with increased recovery, higher concentration and enhanced purity of gDNA isolated from large-volume blood samples compared to previous automated techniques.

Hamilton and Promega expect to launch the new system later this year.

Promega Corporation is a leader in providing innovative solutions and technical support to the life sciences industry.

Hamilton is a leading worldwide supplier of precision liquid handling equipment, laboratory automation and storage systems, serving customers in academic and private research laboratories, pharmaceutical and clinical diagnostic companies and governmental institutions.