Robust even with complex samples

Berlin-based biotech company MinervaBiolabs GmbH relies on extraction machines from Analytik Jena GmbH

Finding out if samples are microbially contaminated requires sensitive PCR, and its success and performance depend on the quality of the extracted DNA. Minerva Biolabs GmbH provides research and industrial cell culture users with kits for contamination diagnostics. For their validation and production, the Berlin-based company relies on Analytik Jena technology, for example on the InnuPure C16 extraction machine and the GeneTheatre for automated sample handling. "For our customers, the better the sample preparation, the better the PCR analysis," says Minerva Managing Director Dr. Dirk Vollenbroich, who founded his company in 1999 as a spin-off of the Berlin Robert Koch Institute. In order to develop and test appropriate kits, the biotech company uses the InnuPure C16, which scores with a number of automatisms that almost completely eliminate cross-contamination. Thus, the pre-filled and sealed reagent plastics are automatically pierced, so that the strips or reagent plates can be used unopened. "It only takes a few simple steps to prepare the device for extraction. This is very convenient for our clientele of research and industrial cell culture users," says the biotechnologist with a doctorate. The device cleans up to 16 samples in parallel, with an elution volume of between 20 and 500 μl each. The eluates are automatically transferred to elution vessels with lids.

"What we particularly appreciate is that individual samples can also be extracted as required. In contrast to devices from other manufacturers, there is no need to wait until the machine is fully utilized in order not to waste extraction chemistry. The InnuPure C16 can therefore be operated very economically," explains Dr. Dirk Vollenbroich. "They took our special requirements very seriously. By making small adjustments to the extraction protocol, maximum results could be achieved." Special requirements – this refers to the diversity of the samples, including very complex (proteinogenic) samples to be examined at Minerva. "We use the device for a wide variety of sample materials – and the DNA yield is consistently high. The device has proven to be very robust in all cases, even in continuous operation. Since its establishment, we have hardly used any manual methods," says the Minerva boss, who appreciates the well-thought-out and compact device architecture: The device only takes up a minimum of space on the laboratory bench. "Very important for us is also the equipment qualification according to DIN EN ISO 13485 and 17025." His company repeatedly relies on Analytik Jena products: "In addition to the performance of the devices, we appreciate the batch tolerance, the short delivery times and the acceptable pricing policy."

Minerva Biolabs GmbH is a market leader in the development and marketing of molecular biology kits for the control of microbial contamination. The biotechnology company is based in Berlin. The core competence lies in the control of mycoplasmas, bacteria and viruses in cell cultures and biopharmaceuticals. In addition, kits are offered for the detection of germs in drinking water and food, for the detection of undeclared meat and for quality assurance of halal and vegan products. Products for the qualification of PCR cyclers or the removal of DNA contamination in the PCR laboratory complete the offer. Minerva Biolabs also works as a contract manufacturer (CMO) with a special focus on freeze-dried PCR kits for small and large IVD manufacturers.

About Minerva Biolabs GmbH

Minerva Biolabs GmbH is a market leader in the development and marketing of molecular biology kits for the control of microbial contamination. The biotechnology company is based in Berlin. The core competence lies in the control of mycoplasmas, bacteria and viruses in cell cultures and biopharmaceuticals. In addition, kits are offered for the detection of germs in drinking water and food, for the detection of undeclared meat and for ensuring the quality of halal and vegan products. Products for the qualification of PCR cyclers or the removal of DNA contamination in the PCR laboratory complete the offer. Minerva Biolabs also works as a contract manufacturer (CMO) with a special focus on freeze-dried PCR kits for small and large IVD manufacturers.