Promega launched its benchtop capillary electrophoresis (CE) instrument, the Spectrum Compact CE System, developed in collaboration with Hitachi High-Tech. The personal CE system is an integrated DNA analysis instrument that enables life scientists in laboratories of all sizes to perform Sanger sequencing and fragment analysis at the bench.
Promega offers innovative solutions and technical support to the life sciences industry. The company’s 3,000 products enable scientists worldwide to advance their knowledge in genomics, proteomics, cellular analysis, drug discovery, and human identification.
Founded in 1978, the company is headquartered in Madison, the USA, with branches in 16 countries (including India) and 53 global distributors.
According to the press statement, the instrument supports applications such as microsatellite instability analysis, mixed sample analysis, forensic STR analysis, and cell line authentication. It processes up to 32 samples in a single run. It can be controlled by either the integrated touchscreen or by additional software that allows access from any registered computer on the same network. Guided software brings capillary electrophoresis capabilities to the hands of any scientist in the laboratory regardless of skill level.
“The Spectrum Compact CE is personal and that’s one of the huge advantages that scientists will see with this instrument,” says Promega head of Research Doug Storts. “An individual can walk into the laboratory and with minimal training, be able to change all the consumables, select which chemistries they want to use for both DNA sequencing as well as for fragment analysis, and perform the experiment. Literally everybody has access. It democratizes the use of the instrument in the laboratory.”
Promega is also offering extensive support to laboratories integrating a Spectrum Compact CE System into their workflow, including on-site instrument and software installation and operational training. Technical Services Scientists are prepared to assist with data analysis and summary reports, and Field Support and Validation Services Scientists are available to assist with maintenance and validation requirements.
Hitachi High-Tech and Promega announced plans in 2017 to design a high-performing, high-value, compact capillary electrophoresis instrument. The Spectrum Compact CE System leverages Hitachi High-Technologies’ expertise as the world’s chief developer of capillary electrophoresis and Promega’s skill as the industry’s leading manufacturer reagents and STR kits.
