AstraGene SX2 UV-Vis Spectrophotometer for Nucleic Acid and Protein Analysis
| Origin | UK |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | AstraGene SX2 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The AstraGene SX2 is a benchtop ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer engineered specifically for life science laboratories requiring rapid, high-fidelity quantification and purity assessment of nucleic acids and proteins. Unlike conventional cuvette-based instruments, it employs a proprietary Through-The-Tip™ optical architecture—integrating sample handling and measurement into a single disposable pipette tip. This design eliminates traditional sample compartments, mechanical shutters, or fluidic pathways, thereby removing sources of carryover contamination, photodegradation, and operator-dependent variability. The system operates on the principle of absorbance spectroscopy across 230–850 nm, utilizing a pulsed xenon lamp and a 2048-pixel UV-enhanced CCD array detector to deliver full-spectrum acquisition in under 2 seconds. Its fixed 1 mm pathlength configuration (expandable to 2–40 mm via optional fiber-optic probes) ensures consistent Beer-Lambert law compliance for accurate concentration calculations without dilution assumptions.
Key Features
- Microvolume capability: Measures 2 µL samples directly in standard pipette tips—no cuvettes, no cleaning, no cross-contamination.
- Integrated electronic pipette included: High-precision, factory-calibrated pipette optimized for reproducible 2 µL dispensing and tip positioning.
- UV-optimized optical train: Pulsed xenon light source with >10-year operational lifetime; UV-enhanced CCD detector with ±0.5 nm wavelength accuracy and 3 nm spectral bandwidth.
- Robust photometric performance: Absorbance linearity <1% over –2.0 to +2.5 A; detection limit of 3 ng/µL for double-stranded DNA and 0.1 mg/mL for BSA.
- Modular pathlength extension: Optional fiber-optic probes (DP317UV, DP200UV) support 2–40 mm pathlengths for low-concentration or highly scattering samples.
- No moving parts: Solid-state optical design ensures long-term stability, minimal maintenance, and immunity to mechanical wear or alignment drift.
- USB 2.0 interface with Windows-compatible software: Includes dedicated modules for nucleic acid (A260/A280, A260/A230), protein (A280, Bradford, BCA), and general spectral analysis.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AstraGene SX2 accommodates native, unpurified, and buffer-matched biological samples—including plasmid preps, PCR products, in vitro transcription outputs, cell lysates, and purified recombinant proteins—without dilution or desalting. Pipette tips are manufactured from UV-transparent polymer and certified RNase-free, supplied sterile in 96-well racks or bulk packaging. The instrument supports GLP-compliant workflows through audit-trail-enabled software (optional FDA 21 CFR Part 11 add-on available), and its spectral output conforms to ISO 6507-1 (spectrophotometer performance verification) and ASTM E275 (UV-Vis method validation guidelines). All firmware and software updates are delivered via secure HTTPS channels and digitally signed for integrity verification.
Software & Data Management
The bundled AstraGene PC software (v5.x) provides intuitive, wizard-driven operation for routine assays: nucleic acid quantification, purity ratio reporting (A260/A280, A260/A230), protein concentration determination (extinction coefficient, colorimetric assays), and full-spectrum visualization with baseline correction, peak integration, and export to CSV, PDF, or XML. Data files include embedded metadata: date/time stamp, operator ID, instrument serial number, calibration status, and raw spectrum checksum. Software supports batch processing of up to 96 samples per session, automatic QC flagging based on user-defined absorbance thresholds, and integration with LIMS via ODBC drivers. Remote diagnostics and firmware updates are supported over standard TCP/IP networks.
Applications
- Routine QC of DNA/RNA extraction yields and integrity prior to sequencing, cloning, or qPCR.
- Verification of oligonucleotide synthesis purity and concentration before hybridization or CRISPR guide RNA preparation.
- Monitoring protein expression levels and purification efficiency during affinity chromatography elution fractions.
- High-throughput screening of enzyme kinetics using NADH/NADPH or DTNB-based assays.
- In-process monitoring of cell culture media components (e.g., tryptophan, phenol red) without sampling disruption.
- Validation of nanoparticle suspensions (e.g., gold nanospheres, liposomes) via surface plasmon resonance band analysis.
FAQ
What is the minimum sample volume required for measurement?
2 µL—measured directly in the pipette tip without transfer or dilution.
Can I use standard laboratory pipette tips with the AstraGene SX2?
No—only UV-transparent, RNase-free AstraGene-certified tips (TIPUVB series) are optically validated for consistent pathlength and transmission.
Is the instrument compatible with modern Windows operating systems?
Yes—software supports Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit); legacy compatibility with Windows 7 SP1 is maintained via runtime libraries.
How is calibration performed and how often is it needed?
Factory calibration is traceable to NIST standards; user verification uses supplied quartz reference filters; annual recalibration recommended for ISO/IEC 17025 compliance.
What safety certifications does the AstraGene SX2 hold?
CE marked per EN 61010-1 (electrical safety) and EN 61326-1 (EMC); RoHS 2011/65/EU compliant.
