Beckman Coulter, Inc. has announced a collaboration with the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) on the validation of the SPRIworks Fragment Library System I for the Illumina* Genome Analyzer.  The automated benchtop system prepares up to 10 DNA libraries in five hours with high reproducibility and consistency.  

The SPRIworks Fragment Library System I, developed by Beckman Coulter Genomics, utilizes Solid Phase Reversible Immobilization (SPRI) paramagnetic bead-based technology.  Through elimination of the column purification and gel electrophoresis-based size-selection steps, the library construction workflow is amenable to automation. 

Holly Baden-Tillson, JCVI scientist and project manager said: "JCVI is very excited to be beta testing the SPRIworks Fragment Library System I.  By implementing SPRIworks, we have significantly increased our throughput from six libraries to as many as 20 in a working day, with very consistent library size and recovery.  This enhanced productivity will also help us to decrease our library construction costs." 

"The SPRIworks system was designed to simplify and automate next-generation sequencing workflows," said Patrick J. Finn Ph.D., director of research and development, Beckman Coulter Genomics.  "This will enable users to prepare more samples for sequencing, and the customer to fully utilize the growing capacity of next-generation sequencing systems, increase operational efficiency and maximize sequencing capability.  We're delighted to be working with JCVI during beta testing, and the performance data generated represents a major milestone in the development of the SPRIworks platform.  We look forward to extending this collaboration with future SPRIworks applications." 

"Simplifying a complex genomics process such as fragment library construction for next-generation sequencing provides another example of SPRI technology application to sequencing sample preparation," commented Julie Moore, director of marketing for Beckman Coulter Genomics.  "Working in close collaboration with our customers and genomic research leaders such as the JCVI allows us to better understand the challenges faced by scientists in the sequencing community and to develop robust solutions to their needs." 

About Beckman Coulter Genomics

Beckman Coulter Genomics, located in Massachusetts, USA, is a leading provider of genomic services and nucleic acid purification products, serving life-science researchers and the pharmaceutical industry throughout the world. The company was created by combining Beckman Coulter's Agencourt Bioscience with the newly acquired Cogenics. By providing technical expertise, combined with personalized service, Beckman Coulter Genomics delivers the highest quality data, robust analyses and innovative thinking.

For more information, visit www.beckmangenomics.com.  

About Beckman Coulter

 Beckman Coulter, Inc., based in California, USA, develops, manufactures and markets products that simplify, automate and innovate complex biomedical tests. More than 200,000 Beckman Coulter systems operate in laboratories around the world, supplying critical information for improving patient health and reducing the cost of care. Recurring revenue, consisting of supplies, test kits, service and operating-type lease payments, represents approximately 78 percent of the company's 2008 annual revenue of $3.1 billion.

For more information, visit www.beckmancoulter.com.

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