Overview:

Nucleic acid extraction and NGS library preparation are among the most critical and labor-intensive processes in the sequencing workflow before samples are loaded onto the sequencer. These steps involve multiple manual pipetting, reagent handling, sample transfers, and repetitive processing stages, which can increase the risk of human errors, sample variability, contamination, and higher resource requirements. To overcome these challenges, automated workflows using the Hamilton Microlab NIMBUS Presto for extraction and automated Hamilton NGS STAR-MOA workflows for library preparation using kits from Twist Bioscience and Lexogen provide a highly efficient and standardized solution for modern genomics laboratories. The complete automated workflow supports both Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Whole Transcriptome Sequencing (WTS) applications, enabling streamlined processing from nucleic acid extraction through library preparation to sequencer loading. The workflow significantly reduces manual intervention, improves reproducibility, minimizes contamination risks, and enhances laboratory productivity while delivering high-quality sequencing results for genomics, oncology, and transcriptomics applications.

Advantages of Automated Extraction Using the Hamilton Nimbus Presto

• Automated nucleic acid extraction with the Hamilton Microlab NIMBUS Presto minimizes manual intervention, reducing handling errors and improving consistency between samples.
• Parallel automated processing increases laboratory throughput while providing extended walk-away operation, allowing laboratories to optimize manpower utilization and productivity.
• Magnetic bead-based extraction technology delivers reliable purification of high-quality DNA and RNA for downstream applications such as Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Whole Transcriptome Sequencing (WTS).
• End-to-end automation enhances workflow standardization, resulting in improved reproducibility and consistent library preparation performance across multiple runs and operators.
• Advanced liquid handling systems with aerosol-reducing tip ejection mechanisms help minimize contamination risks during extraction and library preparation procedures.
• Intelligent monitoring technologies including Total Aspiration and Dispense Monitoring (TADM) and Dual Liquid Level Detection improve pipetting precision and workflow reliability.
• Integrated barcode scanning and sample tracking features strengthen traceability and reduce the possibility of sample identification errors in high-throughput sequencing laboratories.
• The workflow supports diverse sample matrices including blood, plasma, FFPE tissue, saliva, cultured cells, and other complex sample types, enabling flexible genomics and transcriptomics applications. 

Advantages of Automated Library Preparation Using the Hamilton NGS STAR MOA:

• The automated NGS STAR MOA workflow enables reliable and standardized NGS library preparation for up to 48–96 samples simultaneously, supporting high-throughput genomics laboratories. 
• Advanced CO-RE II pipetting technology ensures high liquid handling precision and accuracy, minimizing variability during critical library preparation steps.
• 96-head probe liquid handling significantly accelerates workflow processing and reduces overall library preparation turnaround time.
• Integrated magnetic bead purification and automated processing positions support efficient cleanup and size-selection steps required for NGS library preparation.
• Aerosol-free tip ejection technology helps minimize cross-contamination risks and protects workflow integrity during sensitive sequencing applications.
• Real-time monitoring technologies including TADM, MAD, and Dual Liquid Level Detection improve pipetting verification, aspiration accuracy, and process reliability.
• Automated barcode verification and LIMS compatibility provide complete sample traceability and seamless data management throughout the sequencing workflow.
• On-deck thermal cycler integration, temperature-controlled incubation, and automated plate movement support true walk-away automation for complex NGS workflows.
• The workflow supports a broad range of sequencing applications including targeted enrichment, Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), transcriptome sequencing, long-read genomics, and precision oncology research. 

Advantages of Twist kit for Whole genome library: 

Advantages of Twist WGS Library Preparation Kits 

1. PCR-Free Workflow 

   Reduces amplification bias, duplicate reads, and artificial sequencing errors.

2. Uniform Genome Coverage

   Improves coverage consistency across GC-rich and difficult genomic regions.

3. High Variant Detection Accuracy

   Enhances confidence in SNP, indel, and structural variant analysis.

4. Low DNA Input Compatibility

   Performs well with limited or challenging samples such as FFPE and cfDNA.

5. Reduced GC/AT Bias

   Minimizes coverage dropout for more complete genome representation.

6. High Library Conversion Efficiency

   Generates more usable sequencing reads and improves sequencing economics.

7. Flexible Insert Size Optimization

   Supports tunable fragment sizes for different sequencing applications.

8. High-Throughput Multiplexing

   Enables large-scale sequencing projects with extensive sample indexing capability.

9. Automation-Friendly Workflow

   Simplified protocol supports reproducibility and integration into automated NGS workflows.

10. Reduced Hands-On Time

    Streamlined chemistry improves laboratory efficiency and turnaround time.

Advantages of Lexogen transcriptome stories

• Comprehensive Transcriptome Coverage

  Enables analysis of both coding and non-coding RNA species, providing deeper insights into gene expression and transcriptomic profiling.

• Suitable for Challenging Samples

  Optimized for low-input and degraded RNA samples including FFPE tissues, making it ideal for clinical and oncology research applications.

• Improved Quantification Accuracy

  Incorporation of Unique Molecular Identifiers (UMIs) helps reduce PCR bias and enhances transcript quantification reliability.

• Efficient rRNA Depletion Technology

  Enriches biologically relevant transcripts by reducing ribosomal RNA content, improving sequencing efficiency and sensitivity.

• Supports Advanced Transcriptomics Applications

  Suitable for gene expression analysis, fusion detection, alternative splicing studies, biomarker discovery, and precision oncology research.