The System Automates the Construction of DNA Libraries, Saving Time and Increasing Efficiency

BREA, Calif. — The SPRIworks Fragment Library System I for the Illumina* Genome Analyzer, developed by Beckman Coulter Genomics, won the New Product Award (NPA) designation from the Association for Laboratory Automation (ALA) at their annual LabAutomation Conference and Exhibition earlier this week. The automated benchtop system prepares up to 10 DNA libraries in five hours with high reproducibility and consistency.

The New Product Award (NPA) designation recognizes the best of what’s new in the exhibit hall at LabAutomation. NPA winners are judged by a diverse panel of scientific specialists. Judges look for technical originality, impact on the field of laboratory information, supporting data that respects scientific methodology, and market demand.

The SPRIworks Fragment Library System I utilizes Solid Phase Reversible Immobilization (SPRI) paramagnetic bead-based technology. Through elimination of the column purification and gel electrophoresis-based size-selection steps, the library construction workflow is amenable to automation. The system is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2010.

Bassam El-Fahmawi, Beckman Coulter Genomics product manager for SPRIworks, was delighted: “We are thrilled with this recognition by the ALA, and the affirmation from our peers. Automating this process will enable users to fully utilize the growing capacity of next-generation sequencing systems, increase operational efficiency and maximize sequencing capability.”

“Every year the exhibitors bring their new automated products to the LabAutomation show floor and we are pleased to recognize Beckman Coulter’s commitment to automated science,” said ALA President Malcolm Crook, Ph.D., Process Analysis & Automation, Ltd. The Association for Laboratory Automation, a multi-disciplinary, non-profit scientific association spanning diverse industries and technology sectors, welcomed 4,113 participants from around the world to LabAutomation2010, held Jan. 23-27 in Palm Springs, Calif.

Beckman Coulter, the stylized logo and SPRIworks are registered trademarks of Beckman Coulter, Inc.

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About Beckman Coulter Genomics

Beckman Coulter Genomics, located in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a leading provider of genomic services and nucleic acid purification products, serving life-science researchers and the pharmaceutical industry throughout the world. The company was created by combining Beckman Coulter’s Agencourt Bioscience with the newly acquired Cogenics. By providing technical expertise, combined with personalized service, Beckman Coulter Genomics delivers the highest quality data, robust analyses and innovative thinking. For more information, visit www.beckmangenomics.com.

About Beckman Coulter

Beckman Coulter, Inc., based in Brea, California, develops, manufactures and markets products that simplify, automate and innovate complex biomedical tests. More than 200,000 Beckman Coulter systems operate in laboratories around the world, supplying critical information for improving patient health and reducing the cost of care. Recurring revenue, consisting of supplies, test kits, service and operating-type lease payments, represents approximately 78 percent of the company’s 2008 annual revenue of $3.1 billion. For more information, visit www.beckmancoulter.com.