HID NIMBUS Presto QNA System Normalization & Amplification Setup

Less hands-on time

The HID NIMBUS QNA System and HID NIMBUS Presto QNA System can eliminate the manual normalization process by automatically calculating dilution protocol and normalizing DNA samples. Add the automated quantification and amplification setup, and analysts can reduce hands-on time and experience consistent, reliable, and accurate results from a variety of forensically relevant sample types. The HID NIMBUS QNA systems perform all steps needed for a walk-away forensic DNA normalization and amplification PCR setup protocol.

Normalization

Forensic casework samples may include a variety of biological sources from a wide range of substrates and, when purified, may result in a broad range of concentrations. These samples often contain substances that can inhibit PCR assays. Normalization of these DNA samples is often required and important for successful downstream processing and for reliable results.

The HID NIMBUS QNA systems automates the DNA normalization process.

Based on data from the quantification process and requested elution values the intelligent software can calculate dilution concentrations and direct the instrument to perform normalization. Normalization dilution values may be set globally or individually and for all samples or select samples. A report with experimental details, liquid handling performance, and sample results is generated and can be used for downstream amplification.

Amplification setup

Forensic DNA amplification is important to the casework workflow as it enables the sensitive, specific, reproducible, and timely analysis of DNA evidence, leading to more accurate identifications and aiding in criminal investigations. The HID NIMBUS QNA systems perform polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification setup easily and hands-free.

Validated STR kits

The normalization and amplification capabilities of the HID NIMBUS QNA systems are validated for use with Applied Biosystems STR kits:

GlobalFiler & GlobalFiler IQC PCR Amplification kits

GlobalFiler and GlobalFiler IQC PCR amplification kits combine reduced amplification time with exceptional discrimination power, even with the most challenging sample types. They contain all markers recommended for inclusion by the CODIS Core Loci Working Group and those markers commonly used in Europe, including SE33.

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VeriFiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit

The VeriFiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit offers high-performance genotyping results from single-source and challenging casework samples using a 25-marker STR multiplex assay that includes two gender determination markers, as well as the highly discriminatory markers. VeriFiler Plus kits are specifically designed for challenging sample types and improved sensitivity and robustness to inhibition.

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Yfiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit

The YFiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit is designed for forensic laboratories that process highly challenging Y-STR casework and database samples. The Yfiler Plus kit is optimized to help improve resolution of trace evidence and sexual assault mixtures. It offers laboratories both the power of discrimination and the performance to enable accurate results in less time from challenging samples.

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NGM Detect PCR Amplification Kit

The NGM Detect PCR Amplification Kit enables exceptional data quality and robustness along with powerful discrimination to support European cross-border data sharing initiatives. The kit, with seven mini-STR markers, offers excellent sensitivity and maximizes information recovery, even from degraded casework samples.

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Compatible genetic analyzers

The HID NIMBUS QNA systems prepare plates for downstream processing on:

Like the software interfaces for the other features of the HID NIMBUS Presto QNA systems, the normalization and amplification interface calculates and displays reagent volumes based on user input data. Additionally, the software includes a robust library of plate maps and the option to save plate maps to a local library.

Trusted results

Data collection on the SeqStudio Flex Genetic Analyzer for HID is optimized for performance with Applied Biosystems STR kits to generate data comparable to those from the 3500 Genetic Analyzer as shown below. SeqStudio Flex Data Collection Software also incorporates pull-up reduction and off-scale data recovery algorithms.

During validation studies the performance of the HID NIMBUS Presto QNA System was compared to an already established automated purification system: the AutoMate Express system. Figure 1 shows that full balanced profiles were obtained from saliva and blood DNA extracts. The intra-color balance, intra-locus balance, and average peak height data for blood and saliva samples are comparable to each other with no statistically significant differences.