The field of genomic research encompasses a wide array of disciplines including molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and computational biology. Dedicated to understanding the structure, function, and evolution of genomes (the complete sets of genetic material within organisms), this field of research is key to advancing human health. 

Genomic research seeks to decipher the genetic code within DNA and RNA molecules. This process involves identifying genes and understanding their roles in biological processes such as development, metabolism, and disease. A laboratory technique known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is often used to rapidly produce millions to billions of specific segmented DNA. PCR allows researchers to study the DNA segments in greater detail. DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing applications demand meticulous attention to detail at every step. 

Like in many scientific studies, aliquoting and liquid handling play a large role in genomic research. Aliquoting, the process of dividing a sample into smaller, uniform volumes, enables the creation of comprehensive sample libraries for high-throughput screening. Each aliquot is to maintain the exact composition and concentration of the original sample for further analysis at a later time. Samples in genomic research are often limited and irreplaceable, and aliquoting protects against contamination, degradation, and experimental variability. 

Automated aliquoting systems find applications across the entire spectrum of genomic workflows, from sample preparation to downstream analysis. Researchers commonly automate aliquoting processes in their labs to ensure the integrity and accuracy of aliquots, safeguarding invaluable samples. Consider the extraction of DNA or RNA from biological samples—a foundational step in genomic research. In nucleic acid extraction, automated aliquoting systems distribute standardized volumes of purified DNA or RNA into tubes or plates. 

The nucleic acids are stored as aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, which can degrade the material. Automated aliquoting also allows researchers to distribute samples among multiple experiments without risking depletion of the original source. In PCR, automated aliquoting systems dispense primers, enzymes, and nucleotides with exactness, optimizing reaction conditions and maximizing data quality. Similarly, in sequencing workflows where millions of DNA fragments must be accurately indexed and amplified, liquid handling systems ensure that each sample is processed for reproducibility. These aliquots serve as building blocks for subsequent genomic studies.

The accuracy of aliquoting can make or break an experiment. A single extra microliter or a tiny air bubble in a pipette tip can skew results and compromise data integrity. This concern is why many automated aliquoting systems are designed with precision tools. The air displacement pipettor integrated into the Scinomix AQ Aliquoting System dispenses down to a percentage of a microliter with air volume calibration. Scientists rely on this level of precision to guide their genomic research to transformative discoveries.

Genomic research impacts our world in many ways. Better understanding our DNA allows us to better understand ourselves. Researchers can help us answer questions like “Why do I look the way I do?” and “What are my risks for certain diseases?”. Studies have brought us better diagnostics, new medicines, and even improved food supply. Below are just a few of the specific benefits that genomics has brought us. 

• Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment: Cancer is a group of genetic diseases caused by changes in the genome of our cells, leading them to grow uncontrollably. Millions of people worldwide suffer from cancer. With advancements due to genomic research, clinicians can detect cancer by screening for circulating tumor DNA in patients’ blood, often avoiding painful biopsies. Researchers also use genomics to study molecular characteristics of tumors, resulting in more effective and less toxic treatments for cancer patients. 

• Non-Invasive Prenatal Genetic Testing: Pregnant women can now detect potential genetic conditions of their unborn babies with a simple blood draw. Laboratory personnel can screen the small amount of fetal DNA circulating in the blood to detect abnormalities. Parents can be better informed with no risk for miscarriage like posed with past invasive testing.  

• Direct-to-Consumer Genomic Testing: Anyone can go online to purchase a genomic testing kit from one of numerous companies. These non-invasive tests examine your DNA to reveal family ancestry and DNA-based trait information. You could find new family members or fun factoids like whether you are more or less likely to be a sprinter. 

• Agricultural Improvements: Similar to humans, plants have genes that influence their traits such as height, seed shape, and color. Knowing this information, farmers can find genes that contribute to desirable traits and select them for breeding purposes. Future crops can be equipped to better resist diseases and offer more nutrients to consumers.

At Scinomix, we strive to simplify lab processes while ensuring top-quality results. Our innovative solutions in laboratory automation continue to eliminate repetitive and tedious tasks. By automating lab processes using efficient benchtop solutions, we help to free valuable time and resources, allowing researchers to focus on groundbreaking discoveries. We understand that data accuracy and quality are essential for scientific progress, and that is why we are dedicated to providing automation solutions that guarantee reliable and accurate results. With Scinomix, you can expect lab automation that simplifies processes and ensures quality results every time.

Learn how Scinomix’s all-in-one benchtop laboratory automation system can benefit your genomics research.