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11:22
Automated Robotic Liquid Handling Assembly of Modular DNA Devices
Published on: December 1, 2017
To automate or not to automate: this is the question
M Cymborowski1, M Klimecka, M Chruszcz
1Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, 22908, USA.
Journal of Structural and Functional Genomics
|June 8, 2010
Summary
Integrating and automating X-ray structure determination workflows is crucial for laboratory productivity. Even with technological advancements, the time from sample to publication is longer than anticipated.
Area of Science:
- Structural biology
- Biophysics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Advancements in structural biology have increased Protein Data Bank depositions.
- Increased productivity in single steps does not always reduce overall time to publication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of automation and integration on laboratory productivity in X-ray structure determination.
- To analyze the time lag between technological implementation and observed productivity gains.
Main Methods:
- Case study of a medium-sized laboratory using LabDB and HKL-3000 systems.
- Analysis of X-ray structure determination pathway steps.
- Assessment of automation and integration strategies.
Main Results:
- Automation of select steps and integration of all steps are critical for laboratory productivity.
- The observed impact of technology changes on productivity has a longer-than-expected lag period.
Conclusions:
- Holistic automation and integration are key to improving efficiency in structural biology workflows.
- Managing expectations regarding the timeline for observing technological benefits is important.
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