The Amplitude Solution is a highly automated molecular diagnostic solution for real-time PCR that can process from 1,000 up to 8,000 COVID-19 test samples in 24 hours, and it achieves this with only four full-time personnel. Here’s how.
Amplitude Solution Workflow
The Amplitude Solution consists of two modules. The first is devoted to sample preparation, turning raw samples into a form that the second module can process. This initial phase consists of a Tecan Fluent 1080 Liquid Handler System to extract samples from tubes and place them in 96-well plates. A single batch can prepare 376 samples in four deep-well 96-well plates, with the help of two operators, in a single 6- to 8-hour session.
The four plates are then transferred by operator to the second module, where a robotic arm takes over and helps other machines perform sample preparation and real-time PCR and two additional operators keep reagents stocked and keep an eye on the results. This process extracts the viral RNA from each specimen, combines the four 96-well plates into a single 384-well plate, and performs the final real-time PCR analysis, all in less than three hours per batch.
How does the Amplitude Solution work?
Four Kingfisher Presto systems running MagMax viral pathogen kits operating simultaneously, with required reagents dispensed automatically via CombiDrop reagent dispensers, extract the viral RNA and ready it for study. Then, a Tecan Fluent 780 Liquid Handler System transfers the samples to a single 384-well plate containing the TaqPath COVID-19 Real-Time PCR Assay and TaqPath Multiplex Master Mix. After a quick sealing and centrifuging to expel bubbles, the 384-well plate is read on a QuantStudio 7 Flex Real-Time PCR System and the results reported to COVID-19 interpretive software.
The system can even transfer the results directly to electronic health records. The second module’s two operators serve mainly to troubleshoot problems, replenish reagents as they are used, and supervise the automatic disposal of spent plastics.
Able to run continuously, the Amplitude Solution for COVID-19 testing can process from 1,000 up to 8,000 tests in a single day, making it a flexible and scalable solution for testing centers within healthcare systems, large employers, school systems, and anywhere else that needs to process large numbers of test kits.
The Amplitude Solution now bears Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the United States Food and Drug Administration, opening its use to more settings and enabling this device to discover outbreaks and potentially help save lives.
For Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) only. For prescription use only. For in vitro diagnostic use.