Implementation of an open-source robotic platform for SARS-CoV-2 testing by real-time RT-PCR

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Robotics
• Infectious Disease Diagnostics

Background:

• The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic strained global laboratory diagnostic capacity.
• Supply chain disruptions led to reagent scarcity, necessitating alternative testing workflows.
• Existing automated platforms can be expensive and inflexible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a reproducible, open-source robotic workflow for SARS-CoV-2 real-time RT-PCR testing.
• To create a flexible framework for automated laboratory protocols using open-source liquid-handling robots.
• To offer an affordable and adaptable solution for high-demand molecular diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized OT-2 open-source liquid-handling robots (Opentrons) to create modular robotic stations.
• Developed a code template framework for building and combining robotic stations for multi-stage workflows.
• Designed and implemented two distinct workflows, validated with external quality assessment (EQA) samples from EMQN.

Main Results:

• Successfully established a reproducible open-source robotic workflow for SARS-CoV-2 real-time RT-PCR.
• Demonstrated the adaptability of the framework to different protocols and potential reagent constraints.
• Validated workflow performance using external quality assessment samples.

Conclusions:

• The open-source robotic platform provides an affordable and flexible solution for automated SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing.
• This approach enhances laboratory capacity and resilience against reagent shortages.
• Qualified bioinformatics personnel can implement and adapt this system for diverse molecular diagnostic needs.