Thermo Fisher Scientific unveils automated MagMAX HMW DNA kit to streamline long-read sequencing workflows
Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the Applied Biosystems™ MagMAX™ HMW DNA Kit, addressing critical bottlenecks in high molecular weight DNA isolation for long-read genomic sequencing applications. The automated solution promises to deliver consistent, high-quality DNA fragments exceeding 100 kilobases whilst significantly reducing hands-on laboratory time.
Addressing genomic research bottlenecks
The expansion of long-read DNA sequencing across biotechnology, pharmaceutical, clinical, and academic research has highlighted persistent challenges in sample preparation. Researchers have traditionally required different DNA extraction kits for varying sample types and workflows, creating operational complexity and supply chain inefficiencies.
Manual preparation protocols have compounded these challenges, frequently yielding inconsistent DNA quality and creating delays in research timelines. These bottlenecks have particularly impacted oncology and genomics laboratories seeking to leverage long-read sequencing for structural variant analysis and disease research applications.
“Researchers conducting long-read sequencing can have different sample types, throughput volumes and workflows, but they also require reliable, efficient and flexible HMW DNA isolation that fits their evolving demands,” said Kevin Lowitz, vice president and general manager of sample preparation at Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Our HMW DNA Kit simplifies DNA extraction, providing an automated option for a traditionally manual process, reducing bottlenecks and helping researchers use time efficiently.”
Technical performance and workflow integration
The MagMAX HMW DNA Kit delivers DNA fragments greater than 100 kb in under two hours, requiring only 20 to 30 minutes of hands-on time. The system leverages Applied Biosystems™ Dynabeads™ technology to facilitate consistent, reproducible isolation across diverse sample types.
Automation compatibility represents a key advancement, with workflows designed for integration with Thermo Scientific™ KingFisher™ Duo Prime, Flex, and Apex platforms. This compatibility enables laboratories to scale throughput capabilities whilst maintaining extraction quality standards across varying sample volumes.
The kit offers both complete extraction packages and standalone reagent formats, including bulk reagent options designed to accommodate evolving research demands. Multiple protocol variations support diverse sample types whilst maintaining standardised quality outputs.
Clinical research applications
Long-read sequencing applications have gained particular prominence in structural genomic variant analysis, where traditional short-read sequencing approaches may miss critical genomic rearrangements associated with disease pathogenesis. The enhanced DNA integrity delivered by the MagMAX system supports comprehensive genomic characterisation essential for precision medicine initiatives.
“In our lab, we rely on long-read DNA sequencing to research genomic structure, including variations that could impact our understanding of human disease,” said Alexis Tapanes-Castillo, PhD, Associate Professor of Biology and Lab Director at St. Thomas University. “Thermo Fisher’s new MagMAX HMW DNA Kit has provided our team with quick, simple and scalable solutions, and helps ensure our technology yields high-quality, high molecular weight DNA from our samples.”
Market positioning and regulatory considerations
The product launch reflects growing demand for automated nucleic acid extraction solutions supporting advanced genomic applications. Long-read sequencing platforms have demonstrated particular utility in oncology research, where comprehensive structural variant detection supports therapeutic target identification and treatment personalisation strategies.
The MagMAX HMW DNA Kit is designated for research use only and is not intended for diagnostic procedures.
For more information, visit: https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/A36626
Digital issue: Please click here for more information
