Rapid, High-throughput COVID-19 Sample Processing Enabled by Hamilton’s Magex Starlet and Zymo Research’s Quick-DNA/RNA Viral Magbead Kit

RENO, Nevada (April 30, 2020) —Hamilton Company and Zymo Research Corporation today announced that the MagEx STARlet assay ready workstation is now available pre-scripted with the Quick-DNA/RNA™ Viral MagBead Kit protocol to extract pure DNA/RNA from the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. The jointly developed automated solution offers significant advantages compared to manual processing of samples via traditional time-consuming methods such as spin columns.

As time is of the essence, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, both Companies note that their facilities are operating at full speed, and the products may be rapidly delivered to labs in need. With a pre-programmed and pre-configured workstation and streamlined magnetic bead-based protocol, users can quickly, and effectively assimilate the system and scale their sample extraction and purification steps – up to 96 samples in 1-2 hours – without disruptive lag time.

Zymo Research’s Quick-DNA/RNA™ Viral MagBead Kit extracts and purifies viral DNA and RNA from plasma, serum, urine, cell culture media, blood, saliva, cellular suspensions, swabs, fecal, and biopsy samples. The highly pure nucleic acids may be used in any downstream application, including next generation sequencing (NGS), hybridization-based and RT/qPCR detection.

The MagEx STARlet assay ready workstation based on Hamilton’s Microlab® STAR™ automated liquid handler, contains all tools necessary to process samples without manual intervention. By doing so, human-based pipetting errors and variability are eliminated, risk of biohazard exposure is significantly reduced, and users are free to focus on critical, high-value tasks while the system operates unattended. Hamilton’s patented CO-RE® (Compressed O-Ring Expansion) technology creates an air-tight seal between the pipetting mandrel and Hamilton’s specialized CO-RE tips during liquid handling steps to support highly accurate and consistent results. This also provides gentle tip ejection to significantly reduce the risk of biohazard exposure and cross-contamination.

Visit hamiltoncompany.com/heretohelp for more information on the MagEx STARlet assay ready workstation or to request immediate contact with a local Hamilton Sales Representative.

About Hamilton Robotics:

Hamilton Robotics, an affiliate of Hamilton Company, is a leading global manufacturer providing automated liquid handling workstations and laboratory automation technology to the scientific community. With a focus on innovative design, Hamilton products incorporate patented liquid handling technologies into a portfolio that includes liquid handling platforms, standard application-based solutions, small devices, consumables, and OEM liquid handling solutions. Known for advancing life science, clinical diagnostics, forensics and biotechnology industries, Hamilton products offer reliability, performance and flexibility. Ensuring a continuous commitment to quality, Hamilton utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing at production facilities in Reno, Nevada and Bonaduz, Switzerland, and has earned a global ISO 9001 certification. Privately held, Hamilton maintains headquarters in Reno, Nevada; Franklin, Massachusetts; and Bonaduz, Switzerland, along with subsidiary offices throughout the world. www.hamiltoncompany.com/robotics

All trademarks are owned and/or registered by Hamilton Robotics in the U.S. and/or other countries. For details visit www.hamiltoncompany.com/trademarks.

About Zymo Research Corp.

Zymo Research is a privately owned company that has been serving the scientific community with state-of-the-art molecular biology tools since 1994. “The Beauty of Science is to Make Things Simple” is their motto, which is reflected in every product they produce, from their epigenetics to DNA/RNA purification technologies. Historically recognized as the leader in epigenetics, Zymo Research is breaking boundaries with novel solutions for sample collection, microbiomic measurements, and NGS technologies that are high quality and simple to use. To learn more visit www.zymoresearch.com.

 The Quick-DNA/RNA™ MagBead Kit trademark is owned by Zymo Research Corporation.

Please send reader inquiries about this release directly to marketingrequest@hamiltoncompany.com.

Contacts for the media:

Chere Griffin
Expression Marcom
908-818-9463
CGriffin@expressionmarcom.com

Kelli Cavallaro
Hamilton Robotics
775-858-3000 ext. 461
Kelli.Cavallaro@hamiltoncompany.com

Shea Biondi
Zymo Research Corporation
949-679-1190
sbiondi@zymoresearch.comApril 30, 2020