
SPT Labtech and Watchmaker Genomics are collaborating on automated next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, integrating Watchmaker's sample prep assay kits with SPT Labtech's all-in-one liquid handling Firefly platform.
Financial details and other terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.
According to a statement from the companies, the first automated project from the collaboration uses the Watchmaker mRNA Library Prep Kit and enables the generation of up to 96 libraries in under 6.5 hours with as little as 2.5 ng of starting RNA. Existing mRNA sequencing options take multiple days to execute and require much higher starting RNA input.
The co-developed prep kit is now available, along with a method for the Watchmaker DNA Library Prep Kit with Fragmentation.
Furthermore, users may save additional time by accessing a library of verified protocols directly from the Firefly community cloud and implementing them without the need for extensive training or external support in method development, the firms said.