As next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows continue to advance, laboratories are increasingly working with very small amounts of DNA and RNA while also relying on automation to deliver reproducibility at scale. These trends have placed greater emphasis on consumables that help minimize avoidable sample loss and support consistent downstream results.
Azenta Life Sciences has developed a range of low DNA binding polypropylene consumables designed to address these challenges in sensitive molecular biology applications, including NGS library preparation.
Designed for Consistency in Sensitive Molecular Biology Workflows
Polypropylene consumables are widely used in PCR and sequencing due to their chemical resistance and thermal stability. However, when nucleic acid concentrations are low, interactions between DNA or RNA and plastic surfaces can become more pronounced, particularly across multiple handling and incubation steps.
Azenta Life Sciences’ proprietary Low DNA Binding consumables are manufactured using carefully selected polypropylene polymers designed to minimize this interaction. For workflows such as NGS library preparation—where small losses can accumulate over time—reducing unnecessary binding can contribute to more consistent and reliable outcomes.
The Low DNA Binding product range includes:
- FrameStar® PCR plates in 96- and 384-well formats
- Thin-walled polypropylene wells for efficient thermal transfer
- Rigid polycarbonate frames that support accurate robotic handling
- Extra-rigid skirted designs for high-throughput and automated systems
- Low binding storage and deep well plates compatible with magnetic bead-based clean-up workflows
These design features support stable thermal cycling, precise alignment, and reliable performance in automated environments commonly used by modern laboratories.
Avash Anderson, Product Manager at Azenta Life Sciences, said: “Azenta’s Low DNA Binding consumables deliver the quality and consistency needed for reliable molecular biology workflows. All products are certified free from human genomic DNA, nucleases, and pyrogens, and undergo rigorous testing - including leak testing and PCR performance verification - giving laboratories confidence in even the most sensitive applications.”
Independent Study Highlights Performance at Low DNA Input
In an independent comparative study evaluating low binding PCR plates, Azenta products showed no significant loss of DNA after incubation. In contrast, other commercially available low binding plates demonstrated DNA loss at low starting concentrations, indicated by an increased Ct value.
For lab managers overseeing high-sensitivity sequencing workflows, these findings highlight the importance of consumable selection as part of overall quality and reproducibility strategies.
Azenta, Inc. is a global provider of life sciences solutions, supporting drug development, clinical research, and advanced cell therapies through a portfolio of established brands. The company operates across North America, Europe, and Asia.
For more information on Azenta Life Sciences’ low DNA binding PCR microplates, visit the company’s website.
