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.

Our lab uses validated methods (automated and manual) for DNA isolation out of different types of source materials (blood, buffy coats, swabs, saliva, small tissues, etc). The DNA yield is measured using  the Spectramax or Nanodrop and DNA degradation can be checked by gel electrophoresis. RNA isolations are done manually followed by a QC step on the bioanalyzer.

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 PBMCs will be counted before they are stored.

For MUMC+ in-house studies, we often collaborate with the central biobank of MUMC+ for the delivery and storage of materials.

Services
  • 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. 

  • We use validated methods (automated and manual) for DNA isolation out of different types of source materials (blood, buffy coats, swabs, saliva, small tissues, etc). The DNA concentration is measured using  the Spectramax or Nanodrop and DNA integrity could be checked on the Tapestation.

  • 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.

  • 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 PBMCs will be counted (using Countess) before they are stored at the biobank MUMC+ .

    For MUMC+ in-house studies, we have close collaboration with the MUMC+’s central biobank for the delivery and storage of materials.

Equipment available
  • QIAsymphony SP
  • Hamilton Microlab STAR
  • Epmotion 96
  • Spectramax M2, Nanodrop and Qubit
  • 4200 Tapestation system
  • Countess 3
Servicefaciliteit Genome Services Maastricht
Sigrun Jackmaert and technician Janice

When planning an experiment involving sample preparation, or any services mentioned above, feel free to contact us for an initial consult.

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