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Case Studies > Scaling Up qPCR Assays with a Flexible and User-Friendly Automation Software Platform

Scaling Up qPCR Assays with a Flexible and User-Friendly Automation Software Platform

Technology Category
  • Analytics & Modeling - Predictive Analytics
  • Functional Applications - Remote Monitoring & Control Systems
Applicable Industries
  • Life Sciences
  • Healthcare & Hospitals
Applicable Functions
  • Quality Assurance
  • Product Research & Development
Use Cases
  • Predictive Maintenance
  • Machine Condition Monitoring
  • Process Control & Optimization
Services
  • System Integration
  • Software Design & Engineering Services
The Challenge
Routine analytical assays in the cell and gene therapy sector often require repetitive and complex manual actions, which can be time-consuming and prone to human error. The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult needed a solution to automate these processes, particularly for qPCR assays, to increase efficiency, data reproducibility, and walkaway time for scientists. Traditional automation solutions lacked flexibility and required advanced programming skills, creating a high barrier to entry for many biologists.
About The Customer
The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult, established in 2012, aims to build a world-leading cell and gene therapy sector in the UK. The organization supports companies of all sizes in developing and delivering cell and gene therapies (CGTs) to patients. With over 330 experts, the Catapult operates from state-of-the-art laboratories at Guy’s Hospital in London, a £70-million GMP-compliant manufacturing center in Stevenage, and a newly announced facility in Braintree. The Industrialization team focuses on improving CGT production efficiency in a cost-effective and scalable manner, conducting in-house research, and developing custom, integrated solutions for clients.
The Solution
The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult collaborated with Synthace in 2018 to automate qPCR assays using Synthace’s software platform Antha. Antha allows scientists to perform scalable and flexible qPCR assays on automated liquid handlers through a codeless, user-friendly interface. This platform increases experimental throughput, data reproducibility, and walkaway time for scientists. Antha standardizes protocols, removes variability between runs and operators, and minimizes human error, preserving data integrity. The platform also enables in silico simulation and optimization of assays before execution, ensuring efficient and error-free workflows.
Operational Impact
  • Antha enabled scientists to execute flexible and robust qPCR workflows on automated liquid handlers without programming knowledge.
  • The platform retained data integrity and high data quality, standardizing protocols and ensuring data reproducibility.
  • Scientists could simulate and optimize their assays in silico before execution on hardware, reducing hands-on time by up to 5 hours.
Quantitative Benefit
  • Reduced hands-on time by up to 5 hours per week.
  • qPCR efficiency between 90-110% and less than 0.5Ct range between technical replicates.
  • Antha set up a 384-well plate in 1 hour 45 minutes compared to 5 hours manually.

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