Cambridge, UK – May 28, 2024 – SPT Labtech, a global leader in the design, development, and manufacture of automated instrumentation and consumables for life science applications, has announced a collaboration with Watchmaker Genomics, an expert in genomics tools development for demanding sequencing applications. The partnership will deliver a suite of automated next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation solutions that aim to simplify and streamline lab operations for users while producing more accurate results.
The collaboration leverages Watchmaker’s portfolio of rapid and highly sensitive DNA and RNA solutions on the firefly® all-in-one liquid handling platform from SPT Labtech. The first of many co-developed methods features the Watchmaker mRNA Library Prep Kit and enables the generation of up to 96 libraries in under 6.5 hours with as little as 2.5 ng of starting RNA – a significant improvement over existing mRNA sequencing solutions that take multiple days to execute and have high input requirements.
“We’re enthusiastic about this partnership and the value it will ultimately bring to the genomics community,” said Sandra Rowe, Vice President of Marketing at Watchmaker Genomics. “There’s a true need for workflows that are simple, scalable, and deliver high-quality results. This first mRNA library prep solution lowers the energy barrier to accessing meaningful gene expression information while ensuring robust and reproducible performance.”
Users can save additional time by accessing a library of verified protocols directly from the firefly community cloud and implementing them without the need for extensive training or external support in method development. firefly’s low dead volume requirements also allow researchers to maximize the use of precious reagents and reduce overall costs and waste.
“We’re thrilled to be the first to automate Watchmaker’s mRNA Library Prep Kit — underscoring firefly’s capabilities in streamlining library preparation workflows,” says Paul Lomax, Head of Genomics at SPT Labtech. “From the outset, our collaboration has been geared towards elevating efficiency and usability in genomics labs, empowering them to fully leverage cutting-edge technologies. We’re delighted to announce that the mRNA and DNA library prep protocols are now readily available for firefly users as the first step in this partnership.”
The co-developed mRNA library prep method and a method for the Watchmaker DNA Library Prep Kit with Fragmentation are now available. For more information, visit SPT Labtech’s website and Watchmaker Genomics’ website.
About Watchmaker Genomics
Watchmaker Genomics applies advanced enzymology to enable breakthrough applications for the reading, writing, and editing of DNA and RNA. The company combines domain expertise in protein engineering with large-scale enzyme manufacturing to address the demanding quality, performance, and scale requirements of high-growth clinical genomics applications. Watchmaker’s product portfolio includes enzymes and kits for next-generation sequencing, synthetic biology, and molecular diagnostics. For more information, please visit www.watchmakergenomics.com or find us on LinkedIn.
About SPT Labtech
SPT Labtech makes products that transform the way scientists work. For nearly two decades, our expert scientists, engineers, and business innovators have created innovative solutions for liquid handling, sample preparation and management that help accelerate research and make a real difference to human health. We work collaboratively with our customers, building trusted relationships that enable us to deliver exceptional, personalized experiences designed for real world challenges in the lab. For more information, please visit: www.sptlabtech.com
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Media Contacts:
Jen Pavlica
Sr. Product Manager, Strategic
Watchmaker Genomics
Email: jen.pavlica@watchmakergenomics.com
Carey Rooks
Head of Brand and Communications
SPT Labtech
Email: marketing@sptlabtech.com