Volta Labs Unveils Innovative Automated Library Preparation for Nanopore Sequencing

Volta Labs Launches Advanced Automated DNA Library Preparation

In a groundbreaking development for genomic research, Volta Labs, renowned for its cutting-edge Callisto™ Sample Prep System, has just launched its new DNA Library Preparation Application for the Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ligation Sequencing Kit V14. This innovative protocol, created under the auspices of Oxford Nanopore's Compatible Products Programme, allows laboratories to perform fully automated, ligation-based library preparation optimized specifically for use with the PromethION sequencing platform.

Performance Highlights

According to benchmarking studies and an extensive clinical evaluation conducted at University Medical Center Utrecht (UMC Utrecht), the libraries prepared using the Callisto system have demonstrated impressive performance. These libraries can yield outputs of up to 120 gigabases (Gb) on a single PromethION flow cell, while maintaining a diagnostic-grade variant accuracy with an astounding 99.66% SNV recall. This represents a significant improvement in library preparation efficiency and effectiveness, particularly for those involved in clinical diagnostics.

Bert van der Zwaag, from the Department of Genetics at UMC Utrecht, articulated the importance of having a reliable automated workflow in their routine whole genome sequencing processes. He stated: "As we evaluate whole genome sequencing for routine clinical diagnostics, having a robust, automated workflow is essential. Callisto's high molecular weight DNA extraction and library preparation have given us the consistency and throughput required to work towards ISO 15189 accreditation for Oxford Nanopore-based sequencing. Additionally, the variant calling accuracy achieved is comparable to our existing short-read pipelines."

Furthermore, at the AGBT 2026 event, the findings from UMC Utrecht's evaluation were presented, emphasizing Callisto's integrated high molecular weight DNA extraction capabilities alongside its ligation-based library preparation, reinforcing its suitability for workflows aligned with ISO 15189 standards.

Expert Endorsement

Thomas Bray, Vice President of Corporate Business Development at Oxford Nanopore Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm as well, noting that the results achieved with the Callisto-prepared libraries underscore the capabilities of their platform when paired with high-quality sample preparation for whole genome sequencing applications. "We are thrilled to welcome Volta Labs into our Compatible Products programme," he stated.

About Volta Labs

Founded in 2018 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Volta Labs is at the forefront of transforming genomic sample preparation. The Callisto™ Sample Prep System leverages proprietary electrowetting technology, allowing not only for fully automated DNA and RNA extraction but also for library preparation compatible with all major sequencing platforms, including Illumina and PacBio, in addition to Oxford Nanopore.

The Callisto system stands out by reducing hands-on time by as much as 80%, while providing industry-leading robustness for various types of samples and chemistries, making it an indispensable tool for laboratories seeking to enhance their genomic workflows.

Volta Labs is headquartered in Boston, MA. To explore more about their innovations, visit voltalabs.com.

This latest offering not only revolutionizes library preparation but also paves the way for higher efficiency in genomic research and clinical diagnostics, promising to streamline workflows in diverse laboratory settings.