Automated DNA isolation using the JANUS Forensic Workstation
DNA isolation is the most critical step in the forensic identification process. The JANUS® Forensic Workstation with the DNA isolation configuration is capable of extracting DNA from virtually any type of casework or database forensic sample (swabs, fabric, whole blood and blood stains, gum) using a variety of protocols. The same JANUS workstation can handle both magnetic particle and filtration-based protocols for either large or small forensic sample batches. JANUS workstations with the VersaTip Plus option allow on-the-fly exchange between fixed tip and disposable tip mode within the same protocol, minimizing tip usage and increasing throughput.
The JANUS system fully automates all the DNA extraction, magnetic separation, washing and elution steps, carrying out all pipetting, plate movement, heating, and shaking/mixing steps needed for this protocol. The automated procedure has improved performance (both quality and yield of DNA) and increased productivity compared to manual processing of samples.
The JANUS automated liquid handling workstation can enable:
- Promega® DNA IQ™ System for Database Samples - 96-Well Plates
- Promega® DNA IQ™ System for Casework Samples - Small Batch, 24 & 48 Tubes
- Slicprep™ 96 Device - Low Abundant and Difficult-to-Extract Samples
- Invitrogen ChargeSwitch Forensic DNA Kit – Low Abundant Samples
- QIAamp DNA Isolation from Blood – Magnetic Bead in 96-Well Plates
- QIAamp DNA Isolation from Buccal Swabs – Vacuum Filtration in 96-Well Plates
- Whatman® FTA® DNA Purification Kit - Stained Blood and Saliva Punch Samples
Get the benefits:
- Fully automated walk-away forensic DNA purification with integrated robotic gripper prepares purified samples that are suitable for identification using highly plexed STR genotyping analysis procedures.
- Prepares DNA from a variety of sample types in tube or plate format.
- Automated procedures consistently provide high quality DNA with improved yields compared to manual sample processing with no cross contamination.
- Increase throughput and process 96 samples in two hours for one or multiple plates.
- Embedded contamination controls ensure precision pipetting on a per tip basis.
- Choose between plates or tubes for purified DNA collection.
Recommended JANUS System Configurations
DNA Isolation
- JANUS 2-Arm Integrator Platform with Varispan (4- or 8-tip), Gripper and VersaTip™ Plus Option
- VARIOMAG or 4-plate IKA KS130 Shaker
- Automated Quad 105/70C Heater with four independent heater tiles
- PerkinElmer 96-Well Toroid Magnet
Combined DNA Isolation and PCR Setup
- Same configuration as for DNA Isolation
- Low Volume Disposable Tip