The GnuBIO platform is the only fully integrated next-generation DNA sequencing platform. A single GnuBIO instrument encompasses all of the steps required for DNA sequencing into a single platform including target selection/enrichment, DNA amplification, DNA sequencing and analysis. The novel DNA sequencing system is based on established microfluidic technology. Combining microfluidic technology, and a novel molecular biology assay led to the development of a scalable, accurate DNA sequencing platform.
The power of the GnuBIO platform resides in the use of proprietary chemistry where the volume of reagents and/or analytes are extremely small. In the GnuBIO system, each droplet works as a unique reaction vesicle providing a streamlined workflow that decreases reagent cost, facilitates kinetics of reactions, and provides a uniquely scalable desktop sequencing platform. Sequencing workflows utilizing the GnuBIO platform are tailored to each unique application and could utilize thousands, even billions of emulsions in a single cartridge, thus enabling the researcher or clinician to control the scale of their project and subsequent sample cost.
The GnuBIO system allows researchers and clinicians to run complete sequencing workflow designed to meet their custom needs more efficiently and at a lower cost than currently available.
Microfluidics, the science that deals with the behavior, precise control and manipulation of fluids that are geometrically constrained to a small, typically sub-millimeter scale, emerged in the beginning of the 1980s and is used widely in technologies such as inkjet print heads, DNA chips, lab-on-a-chip technology, micro-propulsion and micro-thermal technologies. GnuBIO has adapted technology developed in Dr. David Weitz laboratory at Harvard. This technology is combined with proprietary molecular biology assays to create a unique next-generation DNA sequencing technology. The science behind this GnuBIO sequencing technology utilizes droplet microfluidics to perform the biochemical reactions for sequencing inside of tiny picoliter -sized aqueous drops. Each droplet acts as a discrete reaction vessel, like a miniature test tube, where the sequencing assay is performed.
GnuBIO’s advantage over existing technologies in both time and cost is empowered by droplet microfluidics. Droplet microfluidics enables users to perform many millions of reactions per hour in small volumes providing both scale and flexibility.
The GnuBIO platform is the only fully integrated sequencing platform providing all of the components required for sequencing in a single instrument including target selection/enrichment, DNA amplification, DNA sequencing and analysis. GnuBIO is well-suited for applications in molecular diagnostics providing an integrated workflow and a cost structure that allows customers to pay only for the sequence needed.
GnuBIO’s current product offering is tailored for both targeted sequencing and hotspot analysis of rare variants. With these novel applications, researchers can complete a custom targeted workflow designed to sequence the genes relevant to their experiment. The entire DNA sequencing workflow can be completed from DNA input to sequencing results and analysis utilizing a single platform, single user interface, with hands on time of a matter of minutes.
Development is ongoing for additional applications including whole genome sequencing, transcriptome analysis, epigenomics and proteomic analysis.
