A Protocol for Magnetic Bead-Based Experiments

Magnetic beads for biological research applications have transformed many common laboratory protocols for the better. However, the success of bead protocols depends heavily on the effectiveness of bead cleanup steps. Avidien and Mount Sinai cancer researchers Dr. Ravi Sachidanandam and Saboor Hekmaty have collaborated to develop a semi-automated bead cleanup protocol using the microPro 300 for more efficient and effective cleanups.

Magnetic bead protocols work to separate specific cells or molecular components from a solution using antibodies attached to the beads. Cleanup is a critical component of using beads, as it ensures that only the desired targets continue to downstream applications. To do this, once the beads have been incubated in the solution so that targets can attach, a strong magnet pulls the beads to the side of the tube so that the remaining solution can be pipetted away. Removing as much of the undesired liquid as possible is essential.

A technician using a single channel pipette could only run a limited number of samples a day without experiencing fatigue. The Mt. Sinai team wanted to scale up their experiments, so they purchased a fully automated laboratory robotic system to perform the protocol. However, they quickly found a major limitation. Complex systems require computer programming skills to set up and operate, limiting who in the lab can utilize them for experiments.

That’s where Avidien comes in. The microPro is easy to use, offering the ability to program and operate from an intuitive iPad app. Once a protocol is set up in the app, anyone in the lab, even the least experienced tech, can reliably follow the step by step instructions to complete a flawless bead clean up. Even steps that do not involve the microPro can be included, to ensure identical protocols are followed in every experiment.

With the help of semi-automatic pipetting, running up to 96 samples at a time becomes a breeze. Not only are steps uniform, but the microPro can also be programmed to get to the very bottom of the plate every time, removing unwanted supernatant quickly and easily. Bead cleanup becomes a streamlined process with high-quality results. The Mt. Sinai team found that the microPro was easier to use than a fully automatic system, while still offering the experimental volume and high-quality results they desired.

Avidien helps labs scale-up experimental output without increasing staff. When it comes to magnetic bead cleanup, the microPro offers a semi-automatic pipetting solution that drives efficiency while maintaining ease of use.

Are you interested in our optimized bead cleanup protocol for use with our microPro 300?