We process thousands of samples per day with extraction, quantification and normalisation of DNA/RNA at high throughput, using automated systems and a scalable operation that can run 24 hours a day.
Our laboratories are accredited to ISO15189:2012 standard and ISO9001:2015 certified, which ensures your samples are processed to the highest standard enabling us to support the processing of samples for clinical trials.
We use a dedicated Laboratory Management System (LIMS) to track all sample processing activities, sample movements and sample holdings. From the moment a sample arrives at UK Biocentre, it is receipted and tracked through all processing activities and movements. The LIMS also continues to hold all data associated with consumed samples, allowing a cohort to be comprehensively tracked during its lifetime at UK Biocentre.
Key benefits of working with us.
Full data integrity and sample provenance.
Large scale sample processing for studies with many participant samples that require short turnaround time processing thanks to our high throughput laboratories, ensuring highly consistent, repeatable results for complete piece of mind.
Complete sample visibility via automated LIMS reports.
Quality assurance: HTA licensed, ISO15189:2012, ISO9001:2015, ISO27001:2013 and data protection standards
Sample processing solutions:
Sample Recipting
All samples are receipted on the day of arrival into our bespoke Laboratory Management System (LIMS) which tracks all sample processing activities, sample movements and sample holdings. From the moment a sample arrives at UK Biocentre, it is receipted into the LIMS and tracked via the LIMS through all processing activities and movements between, in and out of our storage network. In addition to sample movements and processing activities, the LIMS stores all sample associated data and continues to hold all data associated with consumed samples, allowing a cohort to be comprehensively tracked during its lifetime at UK Biocentre.
Blood Fractionation
Fractionation is the separation of plasma, serum, buffy coat, and plasma depleted red blood cells from a blood sample. We achieve this by using high-speed centrifuges and bespoke liquid handling robots, which are able to identify the components.
Aliquoting
We can take multiple smaller samples from parent source samples so that you can store multiple copies for RNA/DNA extraction and testing, as well as biobanking them for future research.
Sample reformatting
Automated liquid sample transfer from a source to our labware allowing for pooling /combination of samples or movement.
Genotyping & Sequencing
We provide genotyping services through an on-site partner, enabling a multitude of assays and services across most commercial platforms to be available for our clients’ studies.
DNA/RNA extraction
We can extract DNA and RNA from a wide range of biological fluids and tissues and can provide services to meet the requirements of most genetic project. Using highly automated processes, we can offer high throughput services that help you deliver your project faster and more cost-effectively whilst ensuring high-quality DNA or RNA to meet the needs of your chosen genetic analysis.
Where required, we can offer bespoke solutions to meet the demands of your specific project. This allows us to be flexible when it comes to requests from clients where specific methodologies or requirements are stipulated.
Normalisation
We offer fully automated normalisation of DNA or RNA to ensure projects of any scale can be completed efficiently and cost-effectively whilst ensuring data integrity are maintained to the highest standards. DNA can be normalised to specific requirements of your chosen downstream analysis provider.
Quantification
To assess the quality of nucleic acids, whether extracted by us or elsewhere, we can offer the following services that ensure your DNA is available to meet the quality demands of downstream analyses:
Quantification by absorbance.
PicoGreentm.
RiboGreentm.
Agarose gel electrophoresis.
Kit preparation
We can provide bespoke sample collection kits for the collection of biological samples from participants.
Shipping and courier services
We can arrange shipping of samples through our extensive network of high-quality sample transportation partners, both nationally and globally. We also offer an in-house courier service for domestic transport.
Storage
We have the largest automated biorepository in the UK and one of the largest in the world, as well as manual -80°C and -196°C LN2 cryo storage.
