Equipment

Photograph showing test tubes being processed in a machine

The Biospecimen Accessioning and Processing Core is equipped with networked computer stations with barcode printers and scanners for specimen accessioning and processing, specimen tracking, and data management.

The core in Minnesota also is equipped with:

  • Automated RNA and DNA extractors.
  • Spectrophotometers.
  • Fluorometers.
  • Microplate reader.
  • Bioanalyzer.
  • Robotic liquid handlers.
  • Centrifuges.
  • Microcentrifuges.
  • Multiple freezers.

The core supports high-throughput automation with this additional equipment:

  • Cappers and decappers.
  • Automated tube sorters.
  • High-throughput sample sorter.
  • Flatbed scanners.
  • Volume check (volume detection) instruments.

To support operations, the core includes:

  • Biological safety cabinets.
  • Autoclave.
  • Analytical balance.
  • Cell counters.
  • Controlled rate freezer.
  • Incubators.
  • Heat blocks.
  • Water filtration system.

The core at Mayo Clinic's campus in Florida is equipped with a DNA extractor, a spectrophotometer and a liquid handler. The core also has instruments to support automated sample processing, such as a capper and decapper and volume check instruments.

Frozen specimens are stored in high-capacity automated freezers at a temperature of minus 112 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 80 degrees Celsius). They also can be stored in conventional upright freezers at a temperature of minus 112 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 80 degrees Celsius) and in liquid nitrogen vapor-phase freezers. Core facilities have extensive capacity to store 1.4-mL cryovials in robotically controlled freezers.