Reduce Carryover with Xover^® Solenoid Valves for Next-Gen Sequencing

Engineer reviewed by:

• Sarah Charette, Technical Marketing Manager – Health & Science @ The Lee Company

Xover^® internal pinch-tube solenoid valve enhances gene sequencer performance by reducing the carryover volume among reagents sharing the same fluidic path. This optimization increases sample throughput and reduces the total volume of wash buffer required to prevent cross contamination between fluids.

What are the Challenges of Next-Gen Sequencing?

The maturity of next-generation sequencing (NGS) instruments and the constant demand for lower cost and higher throughput sequencing have led to new fluidic challenges. Instrument manufacturers are focused on fully automated work-flows while also offering new multiomic and spatial capabilities within the same instrument envelopes. The objectives are the same regardless of target market or method of sequencing: minimize the internal volume of fluidic components to help reduce waste and sample-to-answer time.

Our Recommendation: Xover^® internal pinch tube solenoid valves

The Xover^® internal pinch tube solenoid valve features an innovative Y-shaped elastomer tube in a 3-way and 2-way configuration. The unique geometry allows for the smallest possible internal volume and an extremely low volume carried over between fluids; this enables efficient switching between samples and reagents, while reducing the total volume of wash fluid required. Unlike traditional pinch valves, Xover^® is durable and does not require maintenance during its extensive life cycle. Inert materials in the flow path make the valve suitable for sequencing applications where chemical compatibility is required.

Internal flow path of a 3-way Xover^® valve

Xover^® improves the fluidic performance of gene sequencers by reducing the time between the introduction of reagents and wash solution; this, in turn, leads to higher sample throughput and faster sequencing. Coupled with the low internal volume of the valve helping to reduce the usage of critical fluids, the overall total cost to sequence is reduced. The relatively small size of Xover^®, as compared to traditional rotary shear valves, enables the development of smaller point-of-care sequencing devices without sacrificing performance. The planar flow path through the valve enables undisturbed flow that stabilizes fluids within the system instead of disrupting them.

Where can XOver^® Valves be Used?

The 2-way or 3-way Xover^® solenoid valve can be easily combined with traditional fluidic system components, such as positive displacement pumps, or added to augment the functionality of rotary shear valves. In addition, the valve can be used in vacuum and pressure systems, affording flexibility to system designers who can place the valve wherever it is needed on the system schematic. The versatility of Xover^® means that it can be used with any NGS technology as it meets the core requirements of these applications and offers tremendous value.

Xover^® is available in a 2-way normally closed or a 2-way normally open, as shown in the cross section images below.

2-Way Normally Closed Xover^®

2-Way Normally Open Xover^®

How Can The Lee Company Help You Choose the Right Solenoid Valve?

Our global sales force of technical sales engineers is available to provide fast, accurate customer assistance and help you find the best solution for your fluid control challenge.