Illumina iScan High-throughput Array Scanner System With Hudson Robotics Stacker And Infinium RoMa Advanced Robotic Liquid Handler

The Illumina iScan High-throughput Array Scanner System With Hudson Robotics Stacker And Infinium RoMa Advanced Robotic Liquid Handler is a high-resolution, laser-based optical imaging system designed for rapid, sensitive, and accurate scanning of Illumina BeadChip microarrays.

Its primary function is to support a wide range of genomic applications, including: 

• SNP genotyping
• Copy number variation (CNV) analysis
• DNA methylation profiling
• Gene expression studies

Components: Scanner (2 ea, twin), Robotic arm, Antivibration table, Liquid Handler

How It Works
The iScan system utilizes BeadChips, which are glass slides embedded with tens of thousands to millions of oligonucleotide-coated beads. Each bead is specific to a particular genetic locus or marker.

During an assay, DNA or RNA samples are hybridized to the BeadChip, and labeled targets bind to their complementary sequences on the beads. The iScan uses high-performance lasers (532 nm and 658 nm) to excite fluorescent labels attached to the hybridized targets.

The emitted fluorescence is detected and imaged with submicron resolution (0.53 μm pixel size), allowing precise quantification of signal intensities from each bead. These signals are then converted into digital data files (TIFF or JPG) for downstream analysis using Illumina’s GenomeStudio or other compatible software

Key Features

High Throughput: The iScan can process thousands of samples per week, with scan times as low as 1.25 minutes per sample and 30 minutes per BeadChip (automated).

Exceptional Data Quality: It delivers high signal-to-noise ratios, high sensitivity, and a broad dynamic range, resulting in call rates exceeding 99% for genotyping assays.

Automation and Integration: The system is compatible with the AutoLoader 2.x for automated BeadChip loading and scanning, and can integrate with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for efficient workflow and sample tracking.

Flexible Applications: Supports a complete portfolio of Illumina assays, including those for agrigenomics, human disease research, and epigenetics.

Modular and Scalable: The iScan can be configured for different throughput needs and can be paired with robotics for fully automated operation Typical Applications

Genotyping: Detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across the genome for population studies, disease association, and trait mapping.

DNA Methylation: Profiling methylation patterns for epigenetic research, including cancer and developmental biology.

Copy Number Variation: High-resolution detection of CNVs for cytogenetics and genetic disorder studies.

Gene Expression: Measuring mRNA levels for transcriptomic analyses 

Infinium RoMa Advanced Robotic Liquid Handler Overview:

An advanced robotic liquid handling platform specifically designed to automate the sample preparation workflows for Illumina’s Infinium microarray assays, including genotyping and methylation protocols. But it needs special maintenance to calibrate dispenser positioning. 

Core Components and Features

Robotic Liquid Handling: Utilizes a Tecan Freedom EVO liquid handler equipped with an 8-channel Liquid Handling Arm (LiHa) and an optional Robotic Manipulator Arm (RoMa). The LiHa performs precise pipetting, while the RoMa transports labware and tips, enabling full automation of complex workflows.

Automation Control Software: Comes with Illumina Automation Control (IAC) or ILASS software to manage protocols, enforce workflow steps, and integrate with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for sample tracking and data management.

Workflow Compatibility: Supports both pre- and post-amplification Infinium assay protocols, and is compatible with various Infinium BeadChip formats (including EX and HD Methylation arrays).

Precision and Accuracy: Designed for accurate low-volume dispensing (as low as 500 nL), with typical pipetting precision (CV) of <2.5% at 10 µL and <0.5% at 100 µL