Lunatic

Importance of the Topic

Accurate and high-throughput quantification of proteins, DNA and RNA is critical in fields ranging from biopharmaceutical development to genomics research. Traditional UV/Vis methods often require large sample volumes, serial dilutions and extensive cleanup steps, creating bottlenecks in busy laboratories.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document presents the Lunatic system by Unchained Labs, designed for rapid, dilution-free UV/Vis quantification of up to 96 samples in under 10 minutes using just 2 µL per measurement. It aims to demonstrate the instrument’s performance in terms of dynamic range, precision, accuracy and suitability for both protein and nucleic acid analysis.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Lunatic workflow employs disposable microfluidic plates with two fixed pathlengths (0.1 mm and 0.7 mm) to accommodate absorbance values from 0.03 to 275 OD (10 mm equivalent) without offline dilution. Samples are loaded directly into circuit wells, pulled into the flow channel and measured by a UV/Vis polychromatic spectrophotometer equipped with a xenon flash lamp. Software algorithms correct for potential interferences and provide concentration outputs.

Instrumentation Used

• Lunatic UV/Vis microfluidic analyzer (Unchained Labs)
• 96-well SBS-format microfluidic plate, disposable
• 190–750 nm detection range, spectral resolution <2 nm
• Fixed pathlengths: 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm and 0.7 mm options
• Connectivity: USB, TCP/IP, SiLA-compatible API
• Software with built-in 21 CFR Part 11 compliance features

Main Results and Discussion

• Protein quantification (e.g., IgG): linear response from 0.02 to 200 mg/mL (R2≈0.9999) with precision <1% CV and accuracy <2% across the range.
• Tryptophan standard verification at 280 nm confirms linearity, accuracy and precision in OD range 20–225.
• DNA/RNA analysis: A260 measurements augmented by spectral unmixing to distinguish dsDNA, RNA, turbidity and EDTA interference.
• Sample retention stability of up to 2 hours prevents evaporation or cross-contamination.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Ultra-low sample consumption conserves precious biomolecules for downstream assays.
• High throughput (96 samples/10 min) accelerates screening and QC workflows.
• Eliminates manual dilution steps, reducing hands-on time and error risk.
• Compatible with automated liquid handlers via API for fully unattended operation.
• Meets pharmacopeial requirements (USP, Ph. Eur.) for UV/Vis performance verification.
• 21 CFR Part 11 compliance supports regulated environments and audit readiness.

Future Trends and Applications

Integration of microfluidic UV/Vis quantification with advanced robotic platforms will drive fully automated pipelines from sample receipt to data reporting. Expanded chemometric algorithms may allow simultaneous assessment of additional biomolecules or contaminants. Adoption of cloud-based data management could further streamline multicenter studies and real-time QC monitoring.

Conclusion

The Lunatic system offers a robust solution for rapid, accurate and high-throughput UV/Vis quantification of proteins, DNA and RNA without the need for dilutions or complex sample preparation. Its combination of precision, low sample volume, automation compatibility and regulatory features makes it a valuable tool for research, development and QC laboratories.

Reference

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