An Open-Source Modular Framework for Automated Pipetting and Imaging Applications

in: Advanced Biology (2022)
Diederich, Benedict; Ouyang, Lei; Bowman, Richard W.; Wang, Haoran; Bumke, Kaspar E.; Collins, Joe T.; Spjuth, Ola; Carreras-Puigvert, Jordi
The number of samples in biological experiments is continuously increasing, but complex protocols and human error in many cases lead to suboptimal data quality and hence difficulties in reproducing scientific findings. Laboratory automation can alleviate many of these problems by precisely reproducing machine-readable protocols. These instruments generally require high up-front investments, and due to the lack of open application programming interfaces (APIs), they are notoriously difficult for scientists to customize and control outside of the vendor-supplied software. Here, automated, highthroughput experiments are demonstrated for interdisciplinary research in life science that can be replicated on a modest budget, using open tools to ensure reproducibility by combining the tools OpenFlexure, Opentrons, ImJoy, and UC2. This automated sample preparation and imaging pipeline can easily be replicated and established in many laboratories as well as in educational contexts through easy-to-understand algorithms and easy-to-build microscopes. Additionally, the creation of feedback loops, with later pipetting or imaging steps depending on the analysis of previously acquired images, enables the realization of fully autonomous “smart” microscopy experiments. All documents and source files are publicly available to prove the concept of smart lab automation using inexpensive, open tools. It is believed this democratizes access to the power and repeatability of automated experiments.

Cookies & Skripte von Drittanbietern

Diese Website verwendet Cookies. Für eine optimale Performance, eine reibungslose Verwendung sozialer Medien und aus Werbezwecken empfiehlt es sich, der Verwendung von Cookies & Skripten durch Drittanbieter zuzustimmen. Dafür werden möglicherweise Informationen zu Ihrer Verwendung der Website von Drittanbietern für soziale Medien, Werbung und Analysen weitergegeben.
Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter Datenschutz und im Impressum.
Welchen Cookies & Skripten und der damit verbundenen Verarbeitung Ihrer persönlichen Daten stimmen Sie zu?

Sie können Ihre Einstellungen jederzeit unter Datenschutz ändern.