Laboratory automation is constantly evolving, allowing research facilities to optimize time, enhance reproducibility, and minimize human errors. Watrex Praha introduces innovative solutions in the form of xTrovert™ XT and xTrovert™ FLEX-O™, pushing the boundaries of efficiency in sample preparation and DNA/RNA extraction. These products are designed with a strong focus on flexibility, intuitive operation, and compatibility with various laboratory needs. Let’s take a closer look at xTrovert™ XT.

xTrovert™ XT: Automated DNA/RNA Extraction with Maximum Flexibility

The xTrovert™ XT is a compact benchtop system designed for the isolation of DNA and RNA from various biological materials, including blood, tissue, buccal swabs, and plasma (cfDNA and ctDNA). The system includes pre-programmed extraction protocols that can be modified or completely customized by the user.

The xTrovert™ XT employs two pipetting heads, serving up to two 96-well plates containing preprepared isolation components. This enables fully automated extraction of 1 to 32 samples per run, without requiring user intervention. Standard 1000 µl tips are used for most DNA or RNA extraction protocols. However, the system also supports 300 µl tips, thanks to the easy interchangeability of pipetting heads. Independent piston-driven channels ensure precise and reproducible pipetting, as each channel operates separately.

The system features two magnetic arms for handling paramagnetic beads. A patented technology allows all bead manipulations to occur inside the pipette tips, simplifying the workflow and reducing the risk of sample loss.

Figure 1: Two magnetic arms attracting magnetic beads inside pipette tips.

At the end of the protocol, purified DNA or RNA can be optionally transferred into 0.5 ml vials for immediate use or transport.

The xTrovert™ XT is an open system that comes fully equipped with all necessary components, including kits, 96-well plates, and pipette tips. However, users can calibrate the system to accommodate consumables from virtually any supplier.

Key Features & Benefits

• Dual pipetting heads – users can choose between 300 µl or 1000 µl tips, increasing flexibility for different protocols
• Magnetic arms for SPR bead handling – All bead manipulations occur inside the pipette tips, ensuring precise DNA/RNA extraction
• Thermal incubation – Integrated temperature control from 25°C to 85°C optimizes reaction conditions for various sample preparation steps
• UV-C sterilization – The system includes built-in UV-C sterilization, enhancing safety and minimizing contamination risks
• Intuitive control – a 3.5” TFT touch display provides user-friendly setup and process monitoring

Technical Specifications

• Capacity: 16 or 32 samples per cycle
• Pipetting volume range: 10–600 µl
• Dimensions: 65 × 65 × 34 cm
• Weight: 25 kg

Applications

• Sample preparation for PCR testing
• NGS library preparation
• DNA purification for Sanger sequencing

Current Protocols

• DNA/RNA extraction
• DNA purification
• PCR clean-up/desalting

Innovation That Moves Science Forward

The xTrovert™ XT and xTrovert™ FLEX-O™ bring a revolution in sample preparation and laboratory automation. With an emphasis on flexibility, ease of use, and high throughput, they are an ideal choice for laboratories specializing in molecular biology, biochemistry, diagnostics, and environmental analysis. These devices help scientists increase efficiency and accuracy in sample processing, which is essential in modern scientific research.

Interested in xTrovert™ solutions? Don’t hesitate to contact Watrex Praha for more information: