#USA #Boston #Volta Labs #Callisto #Twist Bioscience

Volta Labs' New Twist Fast Hyb App Revolutionizes NGS Preparation

Volta Labs has once again pushed the boundaries of genomic applications with its latest launch, the Twist Fast Hyb App. This newest addition to the Twist Hybrid Capture portfolio is designed specifically for use with the Callisto™ sample preparation system, marking a significant leap in the automation of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) sample preparation processes.

What is the Twist Fast Hyb App?

The Twist Fast Hyb App is engineered to complement the existing Standard Hyb v2 App from Twist on the Callisto system. It provides laboratories with a completely automated approach to target enrichment, allowing for consistent quality and an impressive turnaround time of just one day, moving away from the conventional overnight processes.

This application is crucial, particularly in the field of genomic research where precision is paramount. The Fast Hyb App automates one of the most complex and labor-intensive stages of NGS sample preparation—hybridization-based target enrichment. By integrating the Fast Hyb protocol with Callisto's digital fluidic platform, labs can transition from traditional overnight hybridization to a streamlined direct workflow that allows samples to reach the sequencer on the same day without increasing manual workload.

Addressing Automation Challenges in Laboratories

One of the key hurdles in laboratory automation is the difficulty of performing hybrid capture-based target enrichment. This process often requires intricate temperature control and repetitive handling of magnetic beads, which can lead to variability in results from batch to batch and between different operators. The Twist Fast Hyb App eliminates this burden by executing cycles of amplification and protocol automatically. This includes managing precise temperature control and bead handling, ensuring labs receive reliable results without the need for constant oversight.

Moreover, the Fast Hyb App guarantees consistency across runs, effectively removing one of the most persistent sources of error inherent in manual processing. Preliminary tests have shown that Callisto achieves sequencing performance comparable to that of manual preparation, with similar quality control metrics such as Fold-80, coverage uniformity, and AT/GC dropout rates. The implications are clear: laboratories can automate a traditionally difficult procedure, reduce turnaround times, and still maintain performance standards expected from manual workflows.

The Words of the Innovators

"Target enrichment is one of the hardest workflows to automate, and even slight differences in technique can significantly impact outcomes," stated Udayan Umapathi, the CEO and Founder of Volta Labs. He elaborated, "With the Twist Fast Hyb App, laboratories gain a fully automated version of Twist's Fast Hybridization protocol that matches the performance of manual methods but delivers guaranteed consistency across runs and much faster turnaround times. Now, both Fast and Standard Hybridization are available on Callisto, allowing labs to manage their entire spectrum of Twist hybrid capture applications on a single automated platform."

The Twist Fast Hyb App is particularly suited for laboratories involved in comprehensive cancer profiling, whole exome sequencing, and other targeted sequencing applications, where teams consistently feel the pressure to deliver results more quickly while managing operational complexity and limited personnel.

"By expanding our entire hybrid capture portfolio on Volta Labs' Callisto system, we offer laboratories the ultimate flexibility to seamlessly shift between varied time and performance requirements," explained Emily M. Leproust, CEO and Co-Founder of Twist Bioscience. "Advanced automation is essential to lowering barriers to entry and making it easier than ever for customers to implement powerful target enrichment solutions without the operational challenges associated with manual workflows."

Availability and Future of the Product

As of now, the Twist Fast Hyb App is available on the Callisto Sample Prep System and joins the existing Twist Standard Hyb v2 App, envisioning a future where genetic sample preparation is increasingly efficient and accessible.

For more information about Volta Labs and their exemplary products, please visit Volta Labs' website.