Andrew+ Pipetting Robot for OligoWorks in μElution Plates

Significance of the Topic

The extraction and quantification of oligonucleotide therapeutics from biological matrices pose significant challenges due to sample preparation variability and the need for precision. Automating solid-phase extraction workflows ensures consistent, accurate, and reproducible results, which is critical in bioanalytical assays for drug development and quality control.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note describes the integration of Waters' OligoWorks WAX SPE Kit with the Andrew+ pipetting robot to automate oligonucleotide sample preparation in µElution plates. The goals include:

• Streamlining the extraction workflow from biological matrices
• Reducing manual intervention and variability
• Enhancing recovery and reproducibility compared to manual and competitive methods

Methodology and Automation Workflow

The automated workflow is divided into two OneLab Cloud Library protocols:

• Automated Digestion Method:
  
  • Sequential addition of guanidine, TCEP, and Proteinase K to up to 96 samples
  • Use of Microplate Gripper tool and Heater-Shaker+ for controlled digestion
  • One manual capping step before incubation
• Automated SPE Method:
  
  • Loading, washing, and elution steps performed by the Extraction+ device
  • Consistent dilution and homogenization using the Heater-Shaker+ post-elution

Instrumentation Used

• Andrew+ Pipetting Robot
• OneLab Cloud Library Software
• Heater-Shaker+ Device with Deepwell Plate Adaptor
• Extraction+ Pump and Manifold with Manifold Collar and Lifter
• Microplate Gripper Tool
• 8-channel Connected Pipettes (5–120 µL and 10–300 µL)
• 8-channel Reservoir and Deepwell Microplate Dominos
• Tip Insertion System Dominos and Collection Plate Spacer Kit

Main Results and Discussion

The automated SPE workflow delivers:

• Up to twofold increase in recovery compared to competitive methods
• Improved reproducibility through fully automated SPE steps
• Elimination of detergent-induced foaming and extensive wash steps
• Rapid "click and execute" configuration for diverse oligonucleotide applications

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Reduced hands-on time and operator-to-operator variability
• High-throughput processing of up to 96 samples per run
• Compatibility with a broad range of oligonucleotide therapeutics
• Scalability for routine bioanalytical and QA/QC laboratories

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Integration with laboratory information management systems for data traceability
• Expansion to larger plate formats and higher throughput configurations
• Adaptation to emerging oligonucleotide modalities and novel sample matrices
• AI-driven protocol optimization for enhanced performance

Conclusion

The Andrew+ automated workflow combined with OligoWorks WAX SPE kits significantly enhances the reliability, throughput, and analytic performance of oligonucleotide quantification assays, meeting the demands of modern bioanalysis and drug development.