Sample quality control for NGS applications

Sample quality control in multiple workflows

In low- or high-throughput genomics labs, the ability to quickly and reliably assess nucleic acid quality is critical. Whether you are preparing samples for next-generation sequencing, PCR, or gene expression studies, efficient DNA and RNA workflows are essential to maintaining data integrity and meeting tight timelines.

Traditional gel electrophoresis for nucleic acid quality control can be time-consuming and prone to variability. As sample volumes grow and turnaround times shrink, the need for automation becomes increasingly critical. Automated systems like Agilent’s TapeStation address these challenges by combining ready-to-use consumables with intuitive software and constant cost-per-sample insights, enabling labs to achieve faster, more consistent results with minimal hands-on effort.

The Agilent 4150 and 4200 TapeStation systems are perfect for low- and high-throughput labs seeking reliable, easy-to-use DNA and RNA quality control. The systems are ideal for quality control during NGS library preparation, genomic DNA integrity assessment, and PCR product analysis.

Why choose TapeStation:

• Ready-to-use ScreenTape devices eliminate preparation time
• Process up to 96 samples simultaneously
• Consistent cost per sample across all applications
• Electronic ladder integration for reliable sizing
• Seamless LIMS integration capabilities

Comparing equivalent performance of bioanalyzer and TapeStation systems

As genomics and transcriptomics workflows become more complex, the need for precise fragment analysis has never been greater. Accurate sizing and quantification of DNA and RNA fragments are essential for ensuring the integrity of downstream applications, from NGS library validation and CRISPR editing checks to gene expression profiling and beyond.

High-resolution fragment analysis enables researchers to detect subtle differences in fragment size, assess sample quality, and confirm the success of molecular workflows. These insights are critical for maintaining confidence in experimental results, especially when working with low-input or degraded samples.

To meet these demands, parallel capillary electrophoresis technology has emerged as a powerful tool for delivering reproducible results with exceptional sensitivity and resolution.

Agilent’s Fragment Analyzer systems are purpose-built for researchers who require the highest level of analytical precision from low- to high-throughput. These systems combine walk-away automation with advanced quality metrics to support a wide range of applications across next generation sequencing and RNA vaccine production workflows.

Why choose Fragment Analyzers:

• Seamless switching between DNA and RNA analysis
• Broad assay portfolio from gDNA, NGS libraries, and DNA fragments to total RNA, small RNA, and IVT mRNA vaccines
• Achieve as low as 3 bp resolution with high-sizing accuracy for fragments under 300 bp
• Advanced quality metrics including RQN (for RNA) and GQN (for genomic DNA)
• Comprehensive compliance services – qualify instruments by IQ/OQ services for use in GMP environments
  

Comparing equivalent performance of bioanalyzer and Fragment Analyzer systems

Protein analysis is a cornerstone of biopharmaceutical development and diverse molecular biology research. Whether you are quantifying protein concentration, assessing purity, or determining molecular weight, the accuracy and reproducibility of your results are critical to downstream success.

Traditional techniques like SDS-PAGE are widely used but often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to variability. As research timelines tighten and regulatory expectations grow, automation has become essential for improving consistency, reducing manual handling, and accelerating turnaround times.

The Agilent ProteoAnalyzer system brings automation to protein characterization, offering a streamlined alternative to traditional gel-based methods. Designed for speed, precision, and ease of use, it supports a wide range of applications, from routine protein QC to advanced biotherapeutic analysis and synthetic biology workflows.

Why choose ProteoAnalyzer:

• Automated separation of diverse proteins from 10–240 kDa
• Accurate measurements of up to 12 samples in parallel
• Eliminated subjective manual analysis
• 45-minute turnaround time vs. overnight gel methods
• Reduced and non-reduced protein compatibility

ProteoAnalyzer for Protein Analysis, Parallel to None