High-throughput real-time PCR

The SmartChip Real-Time PCR System is a high-throughput, automated platform for performing RT-qPCR and qPCR. The system's unique ability to dispense a wide array of sample and assay combinations in a blank nanowell-based chip gives you the freedom to design, verify, validate, update, and perform tests on the same platform without worrying about custom consumables, rigid dispense options, or having to revalidate when changing platforms.

Maximize throughput with an automated workflow »

Shorten and simplify assay verification and validation »

Significantly reduce reagent costs without compromising data »

Maximize throughput with an automated workflow

Perform a run with up to 768 samples in under four hours

The SmartChip Real-Time PCR System is composed of the SmartChip MultiSample NanoDispenser (MSND) and the SmartChip Real-Time PCR Cycler. The SmartChip system workflow utilizes the MSND for high-precision, nanoliter-volume liquid handling capable of dispensing into a 5,184-nanowell MyDesign chip. The SmartChip cycler performs real-time PCR analysis in two hours and supports probe- or dye-based assays such as FAM, VIC, ROX, and green intercalating dyes.

Each chip maximizes the number of samples using flexible dispense patterns. Small, single-digit assay panels accommodate up to 768 samples. Mid-size, 24–48 target panels work with 100s of samples. Large, 100+ panels can be run on dozens of samples at a time—all in around 4 hours with 30 minutes of hands-on time. The system includes an integrated analysis software that enables the interrogation of over 10,000 samples per day. Data can also be easily exported into other analysis tools. 

Shorten and simplify assay verification and validation

Dispense what you want, when you want

Decrease the reliance on expensive, custom formats that often have long lead times and large minimum order sizes. The power of the SmartChip system is derived from the 5,184 individual nanowells on each chip provided in the SmartChip MyDesign Kit. The chips can be dispensed in 15 different assay and sample arrangements, allowing you to run the experiments you want instead of tailoring your experiments to fit rigid sample and assay formats (Table I). Moreover, because you do the dispensing, you don’t have to wait for a custom format to be produced and shipped to you. You can easily modify panels without wasting time and money. The same chips can be used for both assay design and execution, shortening time to regulatory submission and approval.

Significantly reduce reagent costs without compromising data

Save costs without compromising limits of detection

The reactions performed in the SmartChip system are 100–200 nl, which is the “Goldilocks” volume for qPCR. This range is not too large, especially compared to plates, which leads to less reagent volume consumed per run and provides better value per sample. However, this range is also not too small, when compared with other high-throughput slides and IFCs, which maintains sensitivity without a requirement for preamplification (Figure 2).

In testing limits of detection for SARS-CoV-2 viral copy number, we demonstrated reliable detection at 8 copies/μl, which translates to ~1 copy per nanowell reaction. These data demonstrate not only the sensitivity but the added value of being able to run more tests per sample to potentially increase confidence with minimal time and expense.

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Frequently asked questions