Revvity BioQulerm NGS Library Preparation System

Overview

The Revvity BioQulerm NGS Library Preparation System is an integrated, walk-away benchtop platform engineered for precision, reproducibility, and operational simplicity in next-generation sequencing (NGS) library construction. Leveraging a closed-cartridge architecture combined with pre-aliquoted reagent plates, the system automates end-to-end library preparation—including fragmentation (via enzymatic or tagmentation-based methods), end repair, A-tailing, adapter ligation, and PCR amplification—while incorporating real-time fluorescent quantification as an intrinsic quality control step. Designed around standardized liquid handling principles and thermally regulated reaction modules, BioQulerm implements a validated workflow that conforms to core molecular biology requirements for library complexity, insert size distribution, and molar concentration accuracy. Its architecture eliminates manual transfer steps between instrumentation (e.g., thermal cyclers, magnetic racks, fluorometers), thereby reducing inter-operator variability and minimizing contamination risk—a critical consideration under GLP-compliant and clinical research environments.

Key Features

• Single-platform integration of library construction and optical quantification—no cross-instrument sample handling required
• Pre-configured, single-use reagent plates containing all necessary enzymes, adapters, buffers, and magnetic beads; each plate supports up to 8 libraries per run
• Disposable cartridge-based fluidic path ensures consistent pipetting performance and prevents carryover between runs
• Intuitive touchscreen interface with guided setup wizard—designed for users with minimal automation experience
• Automated thermal cycling, magnetic bead-based purification, and fluorescence-based dsDNA quantification using proprietary dye chemistry calibrated against Qubit standards
• Onboard calibration and self-diagnostics support routine maintenance compliance and audit readiness

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The BioQulerm system accepts input DNA ranging from 10 ng to 1 µg across diverse sample types—including FFPE-derived DNA, cfDNA, sheared genomic DNA, and amplicons—with demonstrated compatibility across human, mouse, microbial, and plant genomes. All workflows are compatible with standard Illumina-compatible adapters and index primers. The system’s quantification module meets analytical performance criteria aligned with ISO/IEC 17025–based validation frameworks for nucleic acid quantitation. Instrument firmware supports audit trail logging and user access controls compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed in regulated environments (e.g., clinical trial support labs). Documentation packages include IQ/OQ protocols and traceable calibration records for laboratory accreditation purposes.

Software & Data Management

BioQulerm operates via embedded Linux-based firmware with a browser-accessible web interface supporting remote monitoring, protocol scheduling, and result export in CSV and PDF formats. Each run generates a structured metadata file containing instrument logs, thermal profile timestamps, magnetic separation cycle counts, and raw fluorescence intensity values. Quantification results are normalized using internal reference curves generated during factory calibration and updated during periodic recalibration events. Software supports LIMS integration through HL7 v2.x and RESTful API endpoints, enabling automated data ingestion into enterprise laboratory information systems. Audit trails record user identity, timestamp, action type, and parameter changes—retained for ≥36 months unless configured otherwise per institutional data retention policy.

Applications

• Routine clinical NGS library prep for oncology panels, inherited disease screening, and pharmacogenomics assays
• High-throughput research applications including whole-exome sequencing (WES), RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq, and ATAC-Seq
• Low-input and degraded sample processing (e.g., circulating tumor DNA, ancient DNA, single-cell derived material)
• Method development and assay validation where reproducibility across operators and sites is essential
• Core facility deployment requiring minimal staff training and robust uptime metrics

FAQ

What minimum DNA input is required for reliable library construction?
The system is validated for inputs as low as 10 ng of high-quality double-stranded DNA; performance at sub-10-ng levels depends on fragment integrity and GC content.
Can I use third-party reagents or custom adapters with BioQulerm?
Only Revvity-validated reagent kits (e.g., NEXTFLEX Rapid XP DNA-Seq, NEXTFLEX 2.0 DNA-Seq) and associated cartridges are supported; non-certified reagents void warranty and compromise regulatory compliance.
How often does the system require calibration or maintenance?
Optical quantification modules undergo annual factory recalibration; onboard diagnostics perform daily self-checks, and magnetic rack alignment verification is recommended every 200 runs.
Is the system compatible with ISO 13485 or CLIA-certified laboratories?
Yes—when operated under documented SOPs and with appropriate change control procedures, BioQulerm supports evidence generation for ISO 13485:2016 clause 7.5.2 (Production and service provision) and CLIA §493.1253 (Analytic validity).
Does BioQulerm support dual-indexed library preparation?
Yes—both NEXTFLEX kit variants included with the system support dual indexing; custom index combinations may be implemented via application-specific protocol development by Revvity Field Applications Scientists.