Titelbild CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics

CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics

Automated sample preparation in the proteomics laboratory to optimize throughput and avoid handling errors.

The mass spectrometric identification and quantification of proteins requires prior splitting of the proteins into peptides. This splitting is called protein digestion. It is carried out with the aid of enzymes such as the protease trypsin or endopeptidase Lys-C.

The analysis of proteins by mass spectrometric methods can be carried out either with proteins in solution or with proteins separated by SDS gel electrophoresis. The sample preparation consists of several steps. After denaturation and washing of the sample, the first step is the reduction and subsequent alkylation of the sulfhydryl groups of the proteins. The reagents TCEP and CAA are used for this purpose. This is followed by the actual enzymatic digestion and subsequent extraction of the newly formed peptides, which can then be analysed by mass spectrometry.

For the generation of robust proteomic data, a reproducible protein splitting process is necessary. Here, the use of automated sample preparation robots is extremely useful.

The basis for this automation is the CHRONECT Robotic Autosampler and the CHRONOS software developed by Axel Semrau. It allows a time-optimized utilization of the robot system and thus enables a high sample throughput.

Sequence of the automation

Protein digestion in solution (In-Solution Digest)

  • Place protein sample in buffer
  • Add TCEP to perform reduction / 30 min
  • Alkylation with CAA / 20 min
  • Add LysC and first digestion / 3 h
  • Dilute sample with buffer
  • Add trypsin and second digestion / 10 h
  • Stop digestion by TFA

To perform the digestion of proteins directly in the electrophoresis gel, the CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics includes a special tray with connection to a vacuum pump.

Protein digestion in electrophoresis gel (In-Gel Digest)

  • Place gel section in tray with vacuum station
  • Wash gel intensively
  • Add TCEP to perform reduction / 30 min
  • Alkylation with CAA / 20 min
  • Add trypsin and digest / 10 h
  • Stop digestion by TFA

Advantages of the CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics

  • High sample throughput
  • High degree of automation
  • Flexible, easily adaptable
  • Based on the experience of a large proteomics research centre
  • Ideal for laboratories with medium sample throughput
  • No risk of contamination
  • Excellent reproducibility
  • Investment security

The CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics is a development of the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Society and Axel Semrau.

Ein Graustufenbild von Janine Van den Haute

Do you have questions regarding the product? I would be glad to help you or to connect you with the right contact person.

Business Economist (VWA) Janine Schwafertz
Chromatography and Automatisation, Head of Order Processing
+49 2339 1209-57
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