Prinses Máxima Center Now Offers Enhanced Genomic Workflows with Callisto™ by Volta Labs

Streamlining Genomics in Pediatric Oncology

The Prinses Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Europe’s largest pediatric cancer facility, recently made a significant stride in modernizing its genomic workflows by adopting the Callisto™ platform from Volta Labs. This decision aims to enhance the preparation of samples across various genomics methodologies, which is paramount in advancing pediatric cancer care.

About the Callisto™ Platform

The Callisto™ platform is designed to optimize the sample preparation process, supporting both Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing platforms. By streamlining these workflows, the center expects to increase the efficiency and reproducibility of genomic analyses while substantially reducing the hands-on time required by laboratory personnel.

Bastiaan Tops, the Head of Laboratory for Childhood Cancer Pathology at the Prinses Máxima Center, expressed his enthusiasm about the platform. He stated, "Callisto's full walk-away automation for multiple sequencing approaches will allow us to establish Illumina whole-genome sequencing as a standard of care for all pediatric patients, while at the same time supporting the adoption of Oxford Nanopore sequencing for rapid diagnosis." This transition underscores the center’s commitment to simplifying complex workflows so that their team can dedicate more time and expertise to improving outcomes for children battling cancer.

Enhanced Workflow Efficiency

The Callisto™ system automates critical processes such as extraction, library preparation, and target enrichment in a compact and user-friendly setup. Its flexibility allows both clinical and research laboratories to optimize multiple sequencing applications across various platforms, without the necessity for specialized technical skills. This is particularly beneficial for pediatric oncology, where speed and accuracy are vital.

Udayan Umpathi, CEO of Volta Labs, highlighted the importance of this partnership, noting how inspired he is by the center's application of advanced genomic technologies. He remarked, "Partnering with Prinses Máxima Center is an honor for us. We are proud to collaborate in advancing technologies that bring insights to these patients faster." This collaboration emphasizes the growing global demand for automation solutions that improve next-generation sequencing (NGS) efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

Aiming for Better Outcomes

The integration of Callisto™ aligns perfectly with the Prinses Máxima Center’s mission to provide optimal care and scientific research for children dealing with cancer. The center has been a pioneer in focusing on innovation, collaboration, and excellence, all while striving to cure every child with cancer and ensuring their quality of life.

As more healthcare facilities look to enhance their genomic workflows, the integration of platforms like Callisto™ highlights a broader trend toward modernization in clinical practices. The ultimate goal remains simple yet profound: deliver reliable and rapid medical insights that could make a difference in the lives of young cancer patients.

For those interested in learning more about what Callisto™ can offer in the realm of genomics and its applications within pediatric oncology, further information can be accessed through Volta Labs and the Prinses Máxima Center's official channels. Their efforts exemplify a commitment to excellence in care and scientific research, particularly in a niche that promises to reshape outcomes for children diagnosed with cancer.

Note: The details included in this article are derived from a recent press release published by Volta Labs.