CHRONECT Proteomics Workstation

Importance of the Topic

Proteomic analysis requires reproducible and efficient conversion of proteins into peptides to achieve accurate identification and quantification by mass spectrometry. Automated sample preparation reduces variability, minimizes hands-on time, and increases laboratory throughput.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document presents the CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics system, developed to streamline in-solution and in-gel enzymatic digestion workflows using integrated robotics and software control. The goal is to standardize sample preparation, improve reproducibility, and support medium-throughput proteomic laboratories.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Enzymatic Digestion Workflows:

• In-solution digestion: protein reduction with TCEP (30 min), alkylation with chloroacetamide (CAA, 20 min), Lys-C pre-digestion (3 h), dilution, trypsin digestion (10 h), and quenching with TFA.
• In-gel digestion: gel piece washing, reduction with TCEP (30 min), alkylation with CAA (20 min), trypsin digestion (10 h), followed by acidification.

Instrumentation:

• PAL RTC robotic autosampler for precise liquid handling.
• CHRONOS software for time-optimized scheduling and protocol management.
• Vacuum tray with integrated pump for efficient peptide extraction from gels.
• Predefined SOPs, application solutions, and data system integration provided by Max-Delbrück-Centrum and Axel Semrau.

Main Results and Discussion

Evaluation of the CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics shows high consistency in peptide yield and digestion quality across runs. Robotic handling eliminates manual pipetting errors, while the vacuum-assisted in-gel protocol accelerates solvent removal and enhances peptide recovery.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The automated platform delivers:

• High sample throughput suitable for core and industrial laboratories.
• Robust reproducibility with minimal cross-contamination risk.
• Flexible, customizable protocols and rapid method deployment.
• Complete installation package with training, commissioning, and ongoing support.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Upcoming developments may include integration with upstream cleanup and fractionation, adoption of alternative proteases and labeling strategies, incorporation of machine learning for protocol optimization, and scalability toward single-cell and microfluidic proteomics workflows.

Conclusion

The CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics provides a comprehensive automated solution for standardized proteomic sample preparation, combining advanced robotics, scheduling software, and optimized workflows to enhance data quality, reproducibility, and laboratory efficiency.

Reference

Axel Semrau GmbH & Co. KG. CHRONECT Workstation Proteomics Product Information, January 2017