Multi-Capillary Array Genetic Analyzer with Laser-Induced Fluorescence

What is the Multi-Capillary Array Genetic Analyzer with Laser-Induced Fluorescence?

An automated 4 to 24-capillary array instrument with laser-induced fluorescence detection that sizes labelled DNA fragments and performs Sanger sequencing. It is the standard platform for STR profiling, genotyping and sequencing services.

Overview

The genetic analyzer runs an array of fused-silica capillaries of 36–80 cm length filled with a flowable sieving polymer, and detects fluorescently labelled DNA as it passes a laser-illuminated window. Multiple dyes are separated spectrally on a CCD, so four or five colours can be read in every capillary, allowing internal size standards to run together with samples. Automated polymer replacement, capillary conditioning and sample injection from 96- or 384-well plates support unattended operation, and run times of 30 minutes to 3 hours depend on application. Sequencing read lengths reach around 700–1000 bases and fragment sizing precision is better than 0.5 base. The analyzer is used for forensic STR profiling, microsatellite and AFLP genotyping, MLPA, sequencing of clones and PCR products, and validation of gene-edited sequences.

How does it work?

In capillary electrophoresis a fused-silica capillary of 25–100 micrometres internal diameter is filled with a background electrolyte or sieving polymer and connected between two buffer vials with electrodes. A few nanolitres of sample are injected hydrodynamically or electrokinetically and 5–30 kV is applied. The narrow bore dissipates heat efficiently, so high fields can be used, giving fast and sharp separations. Ions migrate according to their charge-to-size ratio, and in capillary zone electrophoresis electroosmotic flow from the charged silica wall carries all species toward the detector. Gel or polymer sieving separates DNA and SDS-protein complexes by size, while isoelectric focusing resolves proteins by pI. Detection is by UV absorbance or diode array, laser-induced fluorescence or mass spectrometry, and data are processed as electropherograms.

What are the key features?

• Array of 4 to 24 capillaries reads multiple samples in parallel for high daily throughput
• Laser-induced fluorescence with 4 to 6 dye channels supports internal size standards
• Automated polymer fill, capillary conditioning and plate handling allow unattended sequences
• Fragment sizing precision better than 0.5 base for STR and microsatellite genotyping
• Sanger sequencing read lengths of about 700 to 1000 bases with quality scoring
• Software with audit trail and user-access levels supports forensic and diagnostic validation

What are the technical specifications?

A typical multi-capillary array genetic analyzer with laser-induced fluorescence configuration offers number of capillaries of 4, 8, 16 or 24, detection of Laser-induced fluorescence, CCD, 4–6 dyes, laser of Solid-state, approx. 488 nm or 505 nm, capillary length options of 36, 50, 80 cm, sieving polymer of Flowable linear polyacrylamide-type polymer and sample format of 96- or 384-well plates. Values are indicative of the product class; the exact figures for each configuration are confirmed on the quotation and the calibration documents supplied with the instrument.

Which applications is it used for?

The Multi-Capillary Array Genetic Analyzer with Laser-Induced Fluorescence is used in forensic STR profiling, microsatellite and AFLP genotyping, sanger sequencing service, MLPA and fragment analysis and CRISPR clone verification. Across the wider Capillary Electrophoresis class, laboratories also deploy it for monoclonal antibody purity and charge variants, STR profiling for forensic identity and DNA fragment sizing and genotyping.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include USP <1053>, Ph. Eur. 2.2.47, IEC 61010-1, IEC 60825-1, 21 CFR Part 11 and ISO 18385. Certification candidates for this model are CE, IEC 60825-1 laser safety and ISO 9001 manufacturing; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Install the instrument on a stable bench with clean power, controlled ambient temperature and, for fluorescence systems, stable laser and optics conditions. Condition new capillaries according to the method, and flush between runs to maintain reproducible electroosmotic flow. Use filtered, degassed buffers and keep vials free of particles, since blockages and bubbles are the most common faults. Replace capillaries, polymer and windows on schedule, and verify performance with size standards or system suitability mixtures. Regulated users should plan IQ/OQ/PQ, calibration and software validation, with audit trails under 21 CFR Part 11. Safety follows IEC 61010-1 with interlocked high-voltage compartments, and laser safety under IEC 60825-1 applies to fluorescence detectors.

How do I select the right Multi-Capillary Array Genetic Analyzer with Laser-Induced Fluorescence?

Select an array genetic analyzer for STR typing, fragment analysis and sequencing at scale, and match the capillary count to daily plate volume. Specify capillary number and length, dye channels, plate formats, software validation package, consumable supply and available forensic or clinical kits.

How does it compare with other Capillary Electrophoresis variants?

Choose by application first. Capillary zone electrophoresis with UV or diode-array detection covers small ions, peptides, drugs and charge variants. Multi-capillary array analyzers with laser-induced fluorescence suit STR typing, fragment analysis and sequencing. Gel-based CE-SDS is the standard for size purity of monoclonal antibodies, and capillary isoelectric focusing resolves charge heterogeneity. Microchip formats trade resolution for speed and low sample use. Compare capillary count, detection type and sensitivity, temperature control, injection repeatability, autosampler capacity, and the software's audit trail and validation package for regulated use. Also consider consumable cost, such as capillaries, polymer and buffers, and whether the supplier can provide IQ/OQ documentation and method transfer support.