Maximizing PCR and qPCR Throughput with Automated Solutions

Automation in PCR and quantitative PCR (qPCR) processes is revolutionizing laboratory workflows in regulated environments like biopharma and contract research organizations (CROs). By enhancing efficiency, reducing manual errors, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, automation allows labs to scale operations and increase throughput without compromising data quality. Here we show the breadth of Bio-Rad products that are compatible with automated solutions for PCR and qPCR workflows.

Automation solutions for PCR and qPCR processes are highly beneficial across a broad range of laboratory environments, from upstream, non-regulated labs to downstream analytical development, quality control, and manufacturing labs. They are equally valuable in regulated settings such as clinical diagnostic labs, biopharma, and CROs, as well as for labs performing high-throughput workflows.

Automation plays a critical role in enhancing efficiency because it reduces manual errors, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards, such as U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. It also allows for scalability, allowing labs to adapt to varying project sizes and increase throughput while maintaining data quality. By automating these workflows, laboratories can improve productivity, maintain data integrity, and meet stringent regulatory demands, ultimately leading to more reliable and reproducible outcomes. For example, Seegene, a global leader in multiplex molecular diagnostics, has partnered with Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. to leverage the Bio-Rad CFX96 Dx Real-Time PCR System within an automated platform. This collaboration has enabled the development and commercialization of infectious disease molecular diagnostic products in select countries outside the U.S., showcasing the transformative potential of automation in both regulated and non-regulated environments.

For researchers looking to automate their PCR and qPCR processes, Bio-Rad now offers a comprehensive range of products from instrumentation to PCR plates and reagents, all of which are designed for seamless integration into automated workflows. Our Hard-Shell PCR Plates are robust and compatible with most automated liquid handling systems, ensuring durability and ease of use, and the automation-compatible plate seals are useful for maintaining sample integrity and preventing cross-contamination. Reliance One-Step Multiplex Supermix is room temperature stable for 24 hours and is optimized for automated dispensing, providing consistent and reliable results. Additionally, Bio-Rad thermal cyclers and real-time PCR instruments, such as the PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler and CFX Opus Real-Time PCR System, feature automated lid functions, an API for integration with liquid handlers, and data networking capabilities through the BR.io cloud platform, making them ideal for high-throughput and automated applications.

Bio-Rad offers a range of PCR plates, reagents, and instruments that are specifically designed to be compatible with automation (Table 1). Thes products are tailored to the needs of high-throughput workflows and automated systems to ensure consistent performance.

Table 1. PCR plates, reagents, and instruments for automated applications.

If you’re curious about how automation capabilities enhance the efficiency, throughput, and accuracy of PCR and qPCR workflows, the following real-world examples demonstrate how automation enables PCR and qPCR real-time thermal cyclers to become more versatile tools in both research and regulated settings.

Automate PCR Workflows with the PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler

The automated protocol execution on a PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler seamlessly integrates with laboratory automation platforms, allowing users to automatically set up and execute PCR protocols. This includes robotic handling of samples, reagents, and plates, which are then automatically loaded onto the PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler. Additionally, Bio-Rad Hard-Shell PCR Plates are ideal for robotic workstations (see Table 1 for more details). The PTC Tempo 384 Thermal Cycler, in particular, is optimized for laboratories working with higher sample throughput. It features a motorized lid for automation compatibility and integration with robotics. In high-throughput workflows, a large number of PCR reactions are set up and run in parallel. This is particularly useful in genotyping, mutagenesis studies, or screening applications.

Overall, PTC Tempo Thermal Cyclers offer a fresh, intuitive user interface and flexible connectivity features for streamlining protocol management, including remote monitoring capabilities on the BR.io cloud platform. Automation software allows for remote monitoring and control of the thermal cycler, and enables users to start, stop, or modify runs from a distance. This is particularly important in labs where multiple instruments are in use, allowing for centralized control. Importantly, integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or cloud-based storage solutions allow for the automated transfer of run data, minimizing the need for manual data handling and reducing the risk of errors.

Automate qPCR Workflows with the CFX Opus System

Using an automated qPCR setup, the CFX Opus System can be integrated with automated liquid handling systems for setting up qPCR reactions. These systems can prepare the reaction mix, dispense it into wells, and load the plate into the Real-Time system. Similar to the PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler, the CFX Opus System can be used in high-throughput settings, where hundreds or thousands of qPCR reactions are processed simultaneously. This is useful in large-scale gene expression studies or diagnostic screening. The CFX Opus System can also be integrated with CFX Maestro Software, which automatically processes qPCR data, including quantification of gene expression levels, generation of standard curves, and analysis of melting curves. This reduces the need for manual data analysis and speeds up the interpretation of results. Users can remotely access the CFX Opus System via the cloud-based BR.io platform, allowing for real-time monitoring of experiments, data collection, and data analysis from anywhere with an internet connection. This is particularly beneficial for collaborative projects or labs with multiple users. The CFX Opus System can be part of a fully automated robotic workstation where the entire workflow, from sample preparation to qPCR setup, execution, and data analysis, is automated. This is ideal for high-throughput laboratories and reduces hands-on time significantly.

Automating PCR and qPCR workflows is a significant advancement for many laboratories as it maximizes productivity, ensures data reliability, and reduces the potential for errors. These processes are transforming laboratory workflows, particularly in regulated environments, and allow for large-scale, high-throughput applications that can tackle more ambitious projects. By leveraging the comprehensive suite of Bio-Rad automated solutions, researchers can achieve higher efficiency, accuracy, and compliance, ultimately driving advancements in scientific research and development. Embracing these technologies not only enhances productivity but also ensures the reliability and reproducibility of results, paving the way for future innovations in the field. 

Visit our website to learn more about the CFX Opus System and the PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler, or learn more about qPCR and PCR reagents.