#USA #Boston #Volta Labs #Callisto #Oxford Nanopore

Volta Labs' Breakthrough in Library Preparation

Volta Labs, a company known for innovation in genomic technology, has announced a significant advancement in molecular biology with the launch of its automated DNA library preparation application. This revolutionary tool is designed specifically for the Oxford Nanopore Technologies' Ligation Sequencing Kit V14 (SQK-LSK114) and promises to streamline the process of library preparation, a crucial step in sequencing workflows.

Located in Boston, Massachusetts, Volta Labs has developed the Callisto™ Sample Prep System, which enables laboratories to conduct library preparations that are not only quick but also fully automated. This new protocol allows institutions to efficiently prepare DNA libraries with high-throughput capabilities, particularly optimized for the PromethION platform. As a result, labs can expect a level of efficiency and accuracy previously unattainable in routine genomic workflows.

In clinical comparative studies, including an independent evaluation at the University Medical Center Utrecht (UMC Utrecht), it was found that DNA libraries prepared using Callisto achieved an output of up to 120 gigabases (Gb) in a single PromethION flow cell. Even more impressive, the variant calling accuracy reached a remarkable 99.66% SNV recovery rate, meeting diagnostic precision standards. These findings unequivocally demonstrate the effectiveness of Callisto in facilitating full genome sequencing workflows that comply with ISO 15189 standards.

Bert van der Zwaag from the genetics department at UMC Utrecht highlighted the importance of such a robust and automated workflow in clinical applications. He noted, "Having a consistent and high-performing workflow is essential for implementing whole-genome sequencing in routine diagnostics. The high molecular weight DNA extraction and library preparation capability provided by Callisto have allowed us to progress towards achieving ISO 15189 accreditation for Oxford Nanopore based sequencing, while also ensuring variant detection accuracy on par with our established short-read workflows."

Moreover, Thomas Bray, the Corporate Business Development Vice President at Oxford Nanopore Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about Volta Labs joining their Compatible Products Programme. He stated, "The results achieved with libraries prepared using the Callisto Sample Prep System illustrate the level of performance our platform can deliver when combined with high-quality sample preparation for whole-genome sequencing applications."

Founded in 2018 at MIT, Volta Labs is dedicated to transforming the landscape of genomic sample preparation. Their innovative Callisto™ system employs proprietary electrowetting technology to provide fully automated extraction of DNA and RNA, as well as library preparation for leading sequencing platforms including Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, PacBio, Element Biosciences, and Ultima Genomics. With the capability to reduce handling time by 80%, Callisto stands out for its industry-leading robustness across various sample types and chemical processes.

In summary, Volta Labs’ novel automated library preparation for Oxford Nanopore’s sequencing kits marks a significant leap forward in molecular biology, optimizing workflows for laboratories and enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of genomic analysis. As the landscape of genetic sequencing continues to evolve, tools like Callisto are paving the way for more accessible and reliable genetic diagnostics.

For more detailed information on this innovative technology, visit voltals.com.