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Leiden University Faculty of Science

Metabolomics and Analytics Centre (LACDR)

Supporting high-throughput metabolomics with reliable sample storage

The Metabolomics and Analytics Centre of Leiden University’s Faculty of Science (LACDR) specializes in metabolomics research, focusing on precise measurement of the metabolome to answer a wide range of biological research questions. The center collaborates closely with academic and industry partners, receiving biological samples for comprehensive and high-quality analysis.

To meet the demands of high-throughput metabolomics, LACDR relies on advanced automated sample preparation systems and analytical techniques such as Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). These technologies enable the generation of highly detailed, reliable datasets for both fundamental and applied research.

 

The Challenge: Efficient and Traceable Sample Handling

Handling large numbers of biological samples requires absolute reliability, traceability, and consistency. Manual intervention increases the risk of contamination and errors, while inefficient workflows can slow down research output. LACDR needed a solution that would integrate seamlessly into their automated processes while ensuring sample integrity from storage to analysis.

The Solution: Fully Automated Sample Storage

Micronic supports LACDR with high-quality sample preservation and storage solutions. Plasma samples are stored in Micronic 0.75 mL and 1.40 mL Hybrid Tubes, which are designed for use in automated environments.

Each tube features a unique barcode, enabling accurate sample identification and tracking using the Micronic DR500 Rack Reader series. This ensures full traceability and robust quality control throughout the workflow. After storage, samples are automatically transferred to microtiter plates for downstream metabolomics analysis, without manual handling.

Seamless Integration into Robotic Workflows

Tim Kloots, Researcher at LACDR, explains:

“Micronic’s tubes are fully integrated into LACDR’s robotic sample processing system, enabling an entirely hands-free workflow from sample storage to analysis. The automated system retrieves, decaps, and transfers samples with high precision and reliability, minimizing human intervention and reducing the risk of contamination.”

This level of automation supports high-throughput analysis while maintaining the highest standards of data quality and reproducibility.

 

The Result: Reliable, Reproducible, and Scalable Research

Thanks to the SBS-format compatibility of Micronic’s tubes, LACDR benefits from smooth integration across automated platforms. The high purity and quality of the tubes ensure sample preparation free from leachables and contamination, critical for generating reliable and reproducible metabolomics data.

By streamlining workflows and reducing manual handling, Micronic solutions help LACDR increase efficiency, safeguard sample integrity, and focus on advancing cutting-edge metabolomics research.

 

Learn more

For further information about the Metabolomics and Analytics Centre of Leiden University’s Faculty of Science, please visit their website.

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