Freedom EVO® Protein Digest

The Tecan Freedom EVO protein digest workstation enables fully automated protein digest for subsequent MALDI-TOF analysis, entirely removing all manual steps for destaining of gel plugs, reduction, alkylation, in-gel trypsin digest, peptide extraction, and spotting onto MALDI targets. The system allows the processing of up to 192 samples per day, including MALDI spotting.

The entire process from destaining of gel plugs to peptide extraction is performed in the protein purification plate, which is handled through special frame adapters. This system was developed in collaboration with the Proteomics Group at the Max-Planck-Institute of Experimental Medicine in Göttingen, Germany (see Jahn et al., Anal. Bioanal. Chem. 2006, 386:92-103). It allows for: Contact free addition and removal of agents Minimal evaporation during incubation steps Efficient drying processes Cooling of the peptide mixture after digestion.

Characteristics include No piercing of gel-plug due to contact free liquid handling Maximal protection against Keratin contamination Optimized protocols leading to consistent results Sensitivity down to 50 – 100 fmol of protein per gel plug Sequence coverage equal or better compared to manual processes Higher working efficiency due to low hands-on time Cooling capability allows for overnight runs Robust and reproducible results		Sequence coverage of BSA, automated (green) vs. manual (white) digest