Sample preparation and quality control
Genome Services Maastricht UMC+ offers a wide range of tools and methods to prepare your samples for your (future) genome analysis. Starting material of good quality is a prerequisite to obtain good project results.
In the drop-down menu, an overview of our various ‘sample prep and QC’ services can be found. To guarantee a high standard, validated protocols are followed in the laboratory accompanied by the necessary quality control (QC) steps. This ensures that a high-quality product is delivered for further downstream applications in your research project.
For MUMC+ in-house studies, we often collaborate with the central biobank of MUMC+ for the delivery and storage of materials.
Services
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Continuous cell lines are extensively used model systems in biomedical research. Unfortunately, accidental cross-contamination or mislabeling result in misidentified cell lines that no longer match their original donor. The widespread use of misidentified cell lines is a serious threat to the reproducibility of biomedical research. To tackle this problem, a growing number of peer-reviewed journals require cell line authentication as a prerequisite for publication.
Genome Services Maastricht UMC+ offer authentication testing of human cell lines using short tandem repeat (STR) profiling, which is the international reference method for cell line authentication. We analyze 15 tetranucleotide repeat loci and the Amelogenin sex chromosome marker using the AmpFLSTR™ Identifiler™ PCR Amplification Kit. In addition, we verify the STR results using cell line STR profile databases and provide high-quality cell line authentication reports. Thus, avoid generating data based on misidentified cell lines and contact Genome Services Maastricht UMC+ to check your cultures.
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Validated methods, both automated and manual, are used for DNA isolation from a variety of source materials including blood, buffy coats, swabs, saliva, and small tissue samples. DNA yield is accurately measured using the Spectramax. RNA isolations are performed manually. The integrity and potential degradation of both DNA and RNA can be assessed via gel electrophoresis using the 4200 Tapestation system.
Additionally, we specialize in the isolation of cell-free DNA (cf-DNA) from blood plasma. DNA quantification is carried out using the Spectramax or Nanodrop, and DNA integrity is thoroughly analyzed using the Tapestation system, ensuring high-quality results for downstream applications.
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To ease the start of your downstream experiment, using lab automation, your DNA samples could be normalized. The samples can be transferred to 96-well plates or divided into one or multiple tubes with a specific volume. This can also be an added value in case of storage or shipment of the material.
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Our cell culture lab performs PBMC isolation for multiple research studies. The validated protocol guarantees a high-quality product for your further downstream applications. The percentage living PBMCs will be counted (using Countess 3) before the cells are stored at the biobank MUMC+.
The major advantage of PBMC isolation is that multiple options remain available for future applications, such as cell sorting, DNA/RNA extractions, and the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). This makes PBMC isolation particularly valuable for research and clinical applications, as it enables a wide range of downstream analyses and experiments.
Equipment available
- QIAsymphony SP
- Hamilton Microlab STAR
- Epmotion 96
- Spectramax M2, Nanodrop and Qubit
- 4200 Tapestation system
- Countess 3
When planning an experiment involving sample preparation, or any services mentioned above, feel free to contact us for an initial consult.