How to operate the magnetic bead purifier

The operation mode of the magnetic bead purifier can be subdivided into a fine manual operation mode and an efficient automatic operation mode. Each mode has its own unique operation process and advantages. Next, we will introduce the different operating methods of these two modes:

1. Manual operation mode

1. Experimental preparation:

1> Ensure that the magnetic beads are fully dispersed: when using for the first time, shake the magnetic beads on a vortex shaker for 3 minutes, or use other methods to suspend the magnetic beads evenly.

2> Prepare samples and reagents: Prepare the DNA or RNA samples to be purified, and prepare the required lysis buffer, washing buffer, eluent and other reagents.

2. Sample processing:

1> Preprocess according to the sample type. For example, throat swab samples can be used directly, while sputum samples may need to be added with proteinase K and heated.

2>Add the processed sample into a test tube or well plate containing magnetic beads, and add an appropriate amount of lysis solution, ethanol and other reagents.

3. Magnetic bead binding:

1>Mix by vortexing or inversion to fully combine the magnetic beads with the nucleic acids in the sample.

2> Place the test tube or well plate on the magnetic stand so that the magnetic beads are magnetically adsorbed and separated from the impurities in the solution.

4. Washing:

1>Use washing solution to wash the magnetic beads to remove impurities and unbound nucleic acids. This step may need to be repeated several times to ensure washing results.

2>After each washing, place the test tube or well plate on the magnetic stand and absorb the washing liquid.

5. Elution:

1>Add an appropriate amount of eluent (such as Buffer EB or deionized water) to the test tube or well plate, and gently pipet to resuspend the magnetic beads.

2> Incubate the test tube or well plate at room temperature for a period of time to allow the nucleic acid to elute from the magnetic beads.

3>Place the test tube or well plate on the magnetic stand again, and carefully draw the supernatant into a new centrifuge tube, which is the purified nucleic acid sample.

2. Automatic operation mode

For magnetic bead purifiers equipped with automated control systems, operation is usually easier and more efficient. The following is a typical automatic operation mode process:

1. Instrument preparation:

1>Open the sample compartment of the magnetic bead purifier and install the magnetic rod sleeve onto the magnetic rod sleeve holder.

2> Pull out the kit tray, place the kit containing magnetic beads, cleaning solution, eluent and other reagents on the tray, then push the 3> tray back into the instrument and close the sample compartment.

2. Sample loading:

1>Add the sample to be purified to the designated position of the kit.

3. Start the program:

1> Click the Start button on the control interface of the magnetic bead purifier, and the instrument will automatically scan and identify the sample.

2>After scanning the code, the instrument will automatically perform sample purification operations according to the predetermined program, including magnetic bead binding, washing and elution steps.

4. Result collection:

1>After the program is finished, the purified nucleic acid samples will be collected in the designated location of the kit or transferred to a new centrifuge tube.

5. Follow-up processing:

1>Conduct the collected nucleic acid samples for subsequent experiments or save them for later use.

The above operation methods of the magnetic bead purifier are only for reference. Different brands and models of magnetic bead purifiers may have different operating methods, so in actual operation, you should refer to the instruction manual of the specific instrument for operation.