Sole Source Document - Biotage Extrahera LV-200

Importance of the Topic

Automated sample preparation is critical in modern analytical chemistry to increase throughput, reduce manual errors and ensure consistent recovery of target analytes. The Biotage Extrahera LV-200 system addresses diverse workflows such as solid phase extraction, supported liquid extraction, phospholipid depletion and protein precipitation, supporting high-volume laboratories in pharmaceutical research, environmental monitoring and food safety testing.

Objectives and Overview of the Document

This document describes the unique design features and capabilities of the Biotage Extrahera LV-200 automation platform. It highlights how the system’s configuration, hardware innovations and fluidics permit flexible sample processing and integration into standard laboratory environments.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Instrument:

• Biotage Extrahera LV-200 automated sample preparation station

Key design elements:

• Two-tier architecture with a lower carousel to minimize bench footprint
• Integral fume hood for safe solvent handling and exhaust compatibility
• Self-refilling solvent reservoirs to support extended unattended runs
• Dual-flow positive pressure manifold enabling simultaneous processing of columns and plates
• In-tip dual-flow chromatography for on-tip cleanup and fractionation
• Re-use of solvent pipette tips when appropriate to reduce plastic waste
• Configurable tip arrangements on the processing deck for both SPE and supported liquid extraction (SLE)
• Patent-pending plate lift mechanism to minimize cross-contamination between samples

Main Results and Discussion

The Extrahera LV-200 has demonstrated reliable automation across multiple sample cleanup techniques. The dual-flow positive pressure reduces processing time by enabling parallel column operation. In-tip chromatography further streamlines workflows by combining cleanup and elution steps. The fume hood feature maintains a safe environment when handling volatile solvents. The design of the plate lift effectively limits cross-talk between wells, improving data quality and reproducibility.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Increased throughput in high-volume analytical labs
• Consistent and reproducible recovery of target analytes across diverse matrices
• Reduced manual intervention lowers risk of handling errors
• Flexibility to handle SPE, SLE, protein precipitation and phospholipid depletion on one platform
• Lower solvent and consumable costs through tip reuse and self-refilling reservoirs

Future Trends and Potential Uses

As laboratories continue to demand higher throughput and greener workflows, future developments may include further miniaturization of flow paths, integration of on-line detection modules and expanded software algorithms for method optimization. Enhanced connectivity to laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and cloud-based data analytics will support real-time monitoring and adaptive workflows.

Conclusion

The Biotage Extrahera LV-200 represents a versatile and innovative solution for automated sample preparation. Its dual-flow architecture, safety features and consumable efficiencies make it a valuable asset in quality control, research and regulatory laboratories aiming to balance speed, reproducibility and environmental considerations.

Reference

Biotage Extrahera LV-200 Sole Source Document, April 2021.