Processing of samples
Contents
- DNA extraction, dilution and deliveries
- RNA extraction
- Cell extraction and culture
- Serum and plasma
- Further information about the sample processing services
DNA extraction, dilution and deliveries
We extract DNA with automatic methods from the following materials:
- whole blood
- blood cells
- saliva
- saliva microbiota
For the extraction of nucleic acids, we have three automatised extraction robots, Janus-Chemagen360 and two standalone Chemagen 360s. The extraction method we use is based on magnetic particles. For the further processing of samples, we use Tecan Freedom EVO liquid handling robots.
The quality of the samples we have extracted is ensured by measuring their concentrations using spectrophotometric methods (Unchained Labs DropSense or NanoDrop) and/or the PicoGreen method, which is based on fluorescence. In further analyses, the functionality is tested using PCR-based method. At the same time, this method enables verifying that the samples have not been mixed up. All phases of our laboratory process are monitored by a laboratory information management system. All of our samples are labeled with barcodes.
We deliver the samples we have extracted in the desired concentration and format to domestic and foreign laboratories.
RNA extraction
We extract RNA from whole blood samples (PAXgene) with a semi-automatised method (QiaCube by Qiagen).
Cell extraction and culture
We extract and culture cells of human origin. Our services include:
- Extraction of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from a heparin blood sample (Ficoll isolation), including freezing of the cells
- Generating a fibroblast culture from a skin biopsy
- iPS cell generation in a cooperation laboratory
The samples are returned to the commissioner immediately after processing or can alternatively be stored in the storage facilities of THL Biobank in return for a fee.
Serum and plasma
The liquid handling robots can also be utilised in processing serum and plasma samples into smaller aliquots.
