By Claudio Bui
Innovation in genomics doesn’t happen in isolation. Achieving breakthroughs requires appropriate tools like liquid handling systems that deliver precision, reliability, and speed—and, just as importantly, partnerships that enable success. For PacBio, a leader in the genomics space, working with Tecan and Cavro components has been instrumental in addressing challenges, achieving high-throughput sequencing goals and bringing tech like the standard-setting Sequel II system to life.
Cavro® component manufacturing in Penang, Malaysia.
The challenge: achieving high-throughput precision
PacBio’s goal was ambitious: to develop a sequencing platform that could deliver faster results without sacrificing accuracy or reliability. To meet market demands, their team had to innovate quickly—more quickly than most are able. And they had to do so while maintaining the precision necessary for sensitive genomic workflows. Several hurdles soon became apparent:
- Handling high-throughput workflows: the sequencing system is needed to efficiently process large volumes of genomic data.
- Achieving precise liquid handling: sensitive DNA-sequencing applications demanded unmatched accuracy and reproducibility in liquid handling systems.
- Integrating reliable components: seamless integration of reliable and precise components into their proprietary sequencing platform was crucial.
Operating under tight development timelines, PacBio faced the additional challenge of balancing speed with quality. They needed advanced products and a partner capable of providing unmatched technical expertise and reliable support.
The solution: Cavro
The OEM partnership between PacBio and Tecan’s Cavro components has spanned multiple years and played a pivotal role in the success of PacBio’s sequencing platforms. From the production of the first Sequel System to the advancements seen in Sequel II, Tecan’s liquid handling expertise has provided more than simple components—it has provided solutions engineered through trusted collaboration.
A foundation of trust
This long-term partnership evolved, establishing common goals and gaining a mutual understanding of the complexities involved in high-throughput sequencing. Tecan worked closely with PacBio to understand their specific needs and provide solutions that aligned with their goals. This collaborative approach ensured smooth implementation and ongoing optimization of their systems.
Cavro products driving innovation
After establishing the foundation, the team identified the Cavro components essential for PacBio’s success, addressing their key challenges with precision and reliability.
Cavro Air Displacement Pipettor (ADP): The Cavro ADP is an advanced air pipetting module designed to deliver precision and reproducibility—key requirements for PacBio’s sequencing workflows.
- Precision: the Cavro ADP’s stepper motor-driven piston mechanism ensures highly accurate liquid handling, essential for sensitive DNA sequencing.
- Advanced features: to maintain accuracy, integrated pressure sensors enable real-time monitoring, detecting issues like blockages or bubbles. Additionally, its API-ready functionality ensures seamless integration into proprietary systems.
Cavro disposable tips: the Cavro disposable tips are designed to simplify workflows while maintaining sample integrity.
- Sample integrity: by minimizing contamination risks, these disposable tips ensure consistent results across high-throughput workflows.
- Ease of use: the built-in ejection mechanism streamlines operations, enhancing efficiency and supporting process security.
Collaborative problem-solving
Once the right Cavro components were identified and testing began, Tecan’s responsiveness to PacBio’s needs became a hallmark of the partnership. The team’s quick support enabled PacBio to maintain tight R&D timelines, ensuring new technologies reached the market faster. From early prototype testing to final production stages, Tecan’s technical team worked closely with PacBio to resolve challenges as they arose. This additional assurance allowed PacBio to focus on innovation without worrying about operational setbacks.
“Our relationship with Tecan is crucial to achieving very short instrument-development cycles,” noted PacBio Staff Mechanical Design Engineer Paz Yogev. “We try to move extremely fast to meet market requirements, and we always receive a very high level of technical support if we have any questions.”
Mutual benefits and feedback
The partnership has been beneficial to the wider market, too. PacBio’s feedback helped Tecan refine their Cavro products and services. This iterative process enabled Tecan to better align their liquid handling systems with the real-world demands of high-throughput sequencing. For Tecan, the collaboration has provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by genomics companies, improving their products and services and further solidifying their position as a trusted partner in the industry.
The results: transforming genomics with the Sequel II System
The Sequel II System showcases the accomplishments made possible through strong OEM partnerships. Leveraging Tecan’s Cavro components, PacBio successfully developed a sequencing platform that has redefined genomics research. For example, the Sequel II System delivers longer reads, uniform coverage and unmatched sequencing accuracy, making it a game-changer in genomics.
This innovation has positioned PacBio as a leader in the genomics space, setting new standards for sequencing technology.
Key achievements:
- Accelerated development timelines: Tecan’s responsiveness and reliable solutions helped PacBio bring groundbreaking technologies to market faster.
- Improved workflow efficiency: Cavro precision pipettors improved operations by enhancing accuracy and consistency in their processes.
- Meeting market demands: The Sequel II System expanded PacBio’s capabilities, enabling it to address the growing demands of genomic research and diagnostics.
Results like these also give us important insight into the future of genomics. Tools like the Cavro ADP and disposable tips will be essential for further innovation. Long-term collaborations, such as the one between PacBio and Tecan, will also be critical to solving complex R&D challenges.
Partnering for precision and innovation
The PacBio-Tecan partnership exemplifies the value of collaboration in achieving innovation. Combining Tecan’s precision-engineered liquid handling systems with PacBio’s vision for high-throughput genomics, this partnership has driven breakthroughs that are reshaping the field.
For companies looking to achieve similar success, Tecan offers more than just products—they provide a trusted partner committed to helping you reach your goals. Explore Tecan’s Cavro solutions and discover how an OEM partnership can unlock new possibilities for your innovation journey.
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About the author
Claudio Bui
Claudio Bui is the Head of Product Concepts for the Partnering Business in the Components Marketing Team. The primary function of his team is to work closely with customers to develop new concepts and proposals based on a thorough analysis of their specific requirements. Claudio started at Tecan in 1990 in R&D developing Components and has been involved in the development of a number of small laboratory instruments. In 2005, he joined the Marketing team.