Ion Torrent:
- Ion GeneStudio S5 Prime (with automated Sequencing Preparation using Ion Chef System)
- Genexus System
Short-read sequencing is a method that involves sequencing short DNA fragments, usually in the size range between 50 and 300 bases. This method is used for both whole genome sequencing and sequencing specific target regions in the genome. In our laboratory, we use the semiconductor sequencing method (Ion Torrent).
Nanopore Sequencing:
- GridION
- MinION
Sanger Sequencing:
- SeqStudio
With long-read sequencing, significantly longer DNA fragments can be sequenced compared to short-read sequencing. This can be an advantage, for example, in the detection of more complex structural genetic variants. With the nanopore sequencing method, DNA strands with a length of several hundred kilobases can be sequenced. Sanger sequencing is considered the gold standard of sequencing techniques and enables high accuracy, especially in the determination of single base pairs and mutations.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR):
- ProFlex PCR
Quantitative PCR (qPCR):
- QuantStudio 3 Real-time PCR
- QuantStudio 7 Pro Real-time PCR
Digitale PCR (dPCR):
- QuantStudio 3D Digital PCR
- QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR
The polymerase chain reaction, or PCR for short, is an integral part of our everyday laboratory work and has been known to the general public since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2. This technique allows us to amplify certain DNA target sequences, which is essential for subsequent sequencing.
Using qPCR, one or optionally several target sequences can be amplified and their concentration quantified via fluorescence measurement. We carry out digital PCR as a special form of quantitative PCR: This enables high accuracy through absolute quantification.
Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM):
- Leica Stellaris 5
Bioreactors:
- BioFlo 120
Flowcytometry:
- CytoFLEX
Multimode-Microplate Reader:
- TECAN spark
Incubator
In addition to the wide range of molecular biological methods, we also carry out “classic” microbiological methods. These include the extraction of pure cultures from environmental samples, growth tests of cultures, e.g. under the influence of antiobiotics or the determination of cell counts using flow cytometry.
Our bioreactors allow us to carry out a wide range of fermentation experiments, whether as a batch, fed-batch or continuous process.
Automated high-throughput extraction:
- KingFisher DuoPrime
- KingFisher APEX
Cryostat:
- Leica CM3050 S Kryostat
various centrifuges
Ultracentrifuge
Sample Preparation
Different research questions require individual sample preparation techniques: We have a variety of centrifuges for concentrating samples, as well as an ultracentrifuge for separating particles. Several high-throughput extraction devices are available for the efficient extraction of DNA and RNA. Our cryostat allows us to prepare thin sections, for example to examine biofilms.
Automated Liquid-Handling Systems:
- Hamilton ML Prep
- Hamilton MicroLab STAR
Automated liquid handling
Our two automated liquid handling systems support our work in two ways: the significant time savings enable us to achieve a higher sample throughput while maintaining high precision.
DNA size selection:
- BluePippin Instrument
Automated elektrophoresis:
- 4150 TapeStation System
Gelektrophoresis
Fluorometric nucleic acid quantification:
- Qubit Flex Fluorometer
In addition to classic gel electrophoresis for determining the size of DNA fragments, we also have the option of carrying out automated electrophoresis in our laboratory. This enables us to determine both the size and concentration of DNA and RNA within a few minutes. By selecting the size, we can select DNA fragments accordingly for the subsequent analysis procedures.
Clean Bench
Autoclave
Ultra-low temperature freezer
Our laboratory has all the necessary equipment to carry out microbiological and molecular biological work safely and to generate high-quality results. We use sterile benches, an autoclave for the sterilization of consumables and working materials and liquid media, as well as ultra-low temperature freezers for the safe storage of samples, DNA and RNA.
