QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments

For fully automated DNA/RNA purification from a broad range of samples with varying input volumes, with the QIAsymphony SP, and integrated assay set up with the QIAsymphony AS.

✓ 24/7 automatic processing of online orders

✓ Knowledgeable and professional Product & Technical Support

✓ Fast and reliable (re)-ordering

QIAsymphony SP Priority Package

Cat. No. / ID: 9001880

QIAsymphony sample prep module: includes Priority Package with software, installation, training, 2-year warranty on parts and labor, and 2 preventive maintenance visits

InstrumentAccessories

QIAsymphony SP

QIAsymphony Cabinet

QIAsymphony Cabinet SP/AS

Service Options

Priority Package

Priority Package Plus

System

Inquire

Request a demo

The QIAsymphony SP and AS instruments are intended for use by professional users, such as technicians and physicians trained in molecular biological techniques and the operation of QIAsymphony SP and AS instruments. The QIAsymphony SP instrument is designed to perform automated purification of nucleic acids in molecular diagnostic and/or molecular biology applications. It is intended to be used only in combination with QIAsymphony Kits indicated for use with the QIAsymphony SP for the applications described in the kit handbooks. The QIAsymphony AS instrument is designed to perform automated assay setup in molecular diagnostic and/or molecular biology applications. If used in combination with QIAGEN Kits indicated for use with the QIAsymphony AS instrument it is intended for the applications described in the respective QIAGEN Kit handbooks. If the QIAsymphony AS instrument is used with kits other than QIAGEN Kits, it is the user’s responsibility to validate the performance of such product combination for any particular application.

✓ 24/7 automatic processing of online orders

✓ Knowledgeable and professional Product & Technical Support

✓ Fast and reliable (re)-ordering

Features

Purification of high-quality genomic DNA, pathogen DNA/RNA, cell-free circulating DNA and cellular RNA
1-96 samples in 4 batches, from smallest forensic samples to 10 ml sample volumes
Standardized protocols for diagnostic, routine, research and forensic applications
Flexible loading of new samples during a run
Protocols customizable (protocol steps, labware, etc.) on demand
Traceability and LIMS compatibility
Compatible with most commonly used sample tubes and elution tubes and plates
Compatibile with QIAsymphony DSP kits for diagnostic workflows.

Product Details

The QIAsymphony SP is a versatile nucleic acid purification instrument providing high-quality nucleic acids compatible with with most common downstream assay technologies, such as real-time PCR, digital PCR, and next generation sequencing (NGS). The large range of a dedicated QIAsymphony kits enables optimized purification of genomic DNA, cell-free circulating DNA, RNA, bacterial and viral nucleic acids from a wide range of starting materials. The QIAsymphony AS extends the capabilities of the QIAsymphony SP by integrating automated PCR assay setup, which, in combination with the Rotor-Gene Q and QIAGEN real-time and end-point PCR kits, enables you to optimize your PCR workflow and maximize your efficiency.

Principle

The QIAsymphony SP can save you time by processing 1–96 samples — in batches of up to 24 — with sample volumes up to 10 ml. The dedicated range of optimized QIAsymphony kits and protocols guarantees best purification efficiency and nucleic acid quality and increases laboratory capabilities/flexibility with a single instrument. Customization service is available for adjusting standard protocols to your specific needs and specifications.

Dedicated QIAsymphony Kits for a wide range of starting materials
Analyte	Kit	Intended Use	catalogue number	Specification
DNA	QIAsymphony DNA Mini Kit	For molecular biology applications	931236	Purification of DNA from up to 200 µl human whole blood, 200 µl buffy coat, 50 mg tissue (including FFPE tissue), or 1 x 10⁷ cells, and purification of viral nucleic acids from blood
DNA	QIAsymphony DNA Midi Kit	For molecular biology applications	931255	Purification of DNA from up to 1000 µl human whole blood, 400 µl buffy coat, 50 mg tissue (including FFPE tissue), or 1 x 10⁷ cells, and purification of viral nucleic acids from blood
DNA	QIAsymphony DNA Maxi Kit	For molecular biology applications	937266	Purification of total DNA from up to 4 ml human whole blood samples
DNA	QIAsymphony DSP DNA Mini Kit	For in vitro diagnostic use	937236	Purification of DNA from up to 200 µl human whole blood, 200 µl buffy coat, tissue (including FFPE tissue), bacterial and cell cultures, and purification of viral nucleic acids from blood
DNA	QIAsymphony DSP DNA Midi Kit	For in vitro diagnostic use	937255	Purification of DNA from up to 1000 µl human whole blood, 400 µl buffy coat, tissue (including FFPE tissue), bacterial and cell cultures, and purification of viral nucleic acids from blood
DNA	QIAsymphony DSP Circulating DNA Kit	For in vitro diagnostic use	937556	Automated purification of circulating cell-free DNA from human plasma and urine (2000 µl and 4000 µl)
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony DSP Virus/Pathogen Mini Kit	For in vitro diagnostic use	937036	Purification of viral nucleic acids from 200 µl of plasma, serum, and CSF, and viral nucleic acids and bacterial DNA from respiratory and urogenital samples for in vitro diagnostic use
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony DSP Virus/Pathogen Midi Kit	For in vitro diagnostic use	937055	Purification of viral nucleic acids from 1000 µl of plasma, serum, and CSF, and viral nucleic acids and bacterial DNA from respiratory and urogenital samples for in vitro diagnostic use
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Mini Kit	For molecular biology applications	931036	Simultaneous purification of viral DNA and RNA from 200 µl serum, plasma, or cerebrospinal fluid and for viral DNA, viral RNA, and bacterial DNA from respiratory and urogenital samples
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Midi Kit	For molecular biology applications	931055	Simultaneous purification of viral DNA and RNA from 1000 µl serum, plasma, or cerebrospinal fluid and for viral DNA, viral RNA, and bacterial DNA from respiratory and urogenital samples
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony DSP HPV Media Kit	For in vitro diagnostic use	937358	Isolation of human cervical cells stored in liquid-based cytology media for analysis with the digene HC2 High-Risk HPV DNA Test processed on the Rapid Capture System
Microbial genomic DNA	QIAsymphony PowerFecal Pro DNA Kit	For molecular biology applications	938036	Purification of microbial genomic DNA from stool and soil samples
DNA	QIAsymphony Bisulfite Kit	For molecular biology applications	931106	For sample lysis and complete bisulfite conversion/cleanup of DNA using the QIAsymphony SP, optimized for downstream methylation analysis
DNA	QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit	For molecular biology applications	931436	Purification of DNA from a variety of casework and reference samples for human ID applications
RNA	QIAsymphony RNA Kit	For molecular biology applications	931636	Purification of total RNA and miRNA from up to 50 mg tissue (including FFPE tissue) or 1 x 10⁷ cells
RNA	QIAsymphony PAXgene Blood RNA Kit	For Research Use Only	762635	Purification of cellular RNA (including miRNA) from 2.5 ml human whole blood collected in PAXgene Blood RNA Tubes
Circulating DNA	QIAsymphony PAXgene Blood ccfDNA Kit	For Research Use Only	768536	Purification of circulating cell-free DNA from plasma using the QIAsymphony SP instrument, to be used only in conjunction with PAXgene Blood ccfDNA Tubes
Microbial genomic DNA	QIAsymphony mericon Bacteria Kit	For molecular biology applications	931156	Purification of bacterial DNA from 500 μl enrichment culture
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony Certal Residual DNA Kit	For molecular biology applications	931855	Purification of residual host cell DNA and viral nucleic acid from bioprocess purification buffer and cell culture supernatant samples
Pathogen nucleic acid	QIAsymphony Certal Vaccine NA Kit	For molecular biology applications	931955	Purification of residual host cell DNA and viral nucleic acid from vaccine preparations

* Up to 72 samples can be processed per run.

More information on QIAsymphony Kits and QIAsymphony Accessories>

Extending the QIAsymphony SP with the QIAsymphony AS results in a fully integrated system that can automate sample preparation and assay setup workflows without manual interference. Manual pipetting steps prone to human error are eliminated, making this system ideal for laboratories that perform complex assays on a day-to-day basis. The QIAsymphony AS provides active cooling of reagents, eluates and assays, enabling safe and reproducible assay setup. The QIAsymphony AS supports setup of multiple assays per run or sample. A customization service is available for in-house assays.

The QIAsymphony SP and the QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments deliver state-of-the-art process safety and standardization features. Tip guards minimize the risk of cross-contamination and built-in UV lamps provide effective worktable decontamination. Bar code reading of samples and reagents enables full tracking throughout the entire purification and assay setup procedure. Chronological electronic documentation of results is provided, including information about sample IDs, their positions, and the lot number and expiry date of sample preparation and PCR reagents. Multi-level user management provides a record of which user was responsible for sample processing. Electronic result files may be automatically printed via a networked printer, or downloaded using a USB stick for archiving purposes. The QIAlink software which is available separately (?) can handle communication with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

The QIAsymphony Cabinet SP/AS (see figure " QIAsymphony Cabinet SP/AS") is specifically designed for correct positioning of the QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments. The QIAsymphony Cabinet SP/AS comprises two separate parts: one for the QIAsymphony SP and one for the QIAsymphony AS. If you have both QIAsymphony SP and QIAsymphony AS instruments, you need both cabinet, which are positioned side by side. If you have only a QIAsymphony SP instrument, only the QIAsymphony Cabinet SP is required. The QIAsymphony Cabinet SP and the QIAsymphony Cabinet AS each contain a waste compartment into which used tips from the worktable can be ejected.

Procedure

The QIAsymphony SP is ready-to-run and requires only minimal installation. Laboratories already operating a QIAsymphony SP can easily upgrade their system onsite with a QIAsymphony AS module. The QIAsymphony AS directly interfaces with the QIAsymphony SP. To reduce manual handling steps and minimize the risk of sample contamination, samples processed on the QIAsymphony SP can be transferred automatically to the QIAsymphony AS (integrated operation). For extra flexibility, the QIAsymphony SP and AS can also be operated independently. Samples that have been processed earlier in the day, or that have been processed on a different QIAsymphony SP, may be manually transferred to the QIAsymphony AS (see figure " QIAsymphony workflows").

Sample preparation and assay setup runs are defined using the touchscreen. Simply load drawers with the required samples, reagents, and consumables. When each drawer is closed, a detailed inventory scan is performed. This ensures that the worktable is correctly set up for the selected protocols. After sample preparation, either remove purified nucleic acids from the eluate drawer or automatically transfer eluates to the QIAsymphony AS via the transfer module for assay setup. After assay setup, assays can be transferred directly to a real-time PCR cycler for analysis.

The sample input drawer accommodates a wide range of sample input formats to suit varying workflows and sample preparation requirements. Bar code-labeled primary and secondary sample tubes (diameter 10–16.9 mm), microplates, and blocks are supported.Continuous loading in batches of up to 24 samples plus internal controls, and the option to assign different protocols to each batch, delivers increased efficiency and walkaway time. The QIAsymphony AS enables setup of single or multiple PCRs per run or sample, splitting of eluates for panel testing, and active cooling of eluates, reagents, and PCRs. A choice of output adapters enables use of different real-time PCR cyclers (e.g., Rotor-Gene Q, 96-well cyclers, 32-capillary cyclers). To use the Rotor-Gene Q for subsequent detection, simply set up your PCRs in Strip Tubes or Rotor-Discs.

QIAsymphony Kits are safe and exceptionally easy to use. Ready-to-run, bar code-labeled reagent cartridges are prefilled with all reagents required for the purification procedure, including accessory enzymes (see figure " Prefilled, sealed reagent cartridges"). Worktable setup is rapid and saves you valuable time. Simply place up to 2 reagent cartridges in the QIAsymphony drawer. The reagent cartridges can be from the same or different kits, enabling different purification procedures to be performed within the same run of 96 samples. Reagent cartridges are automatically opened by the instrument, and reagent volumes only for the selected number of samples are used, giving you complete cost control.

See figures

QIAsymphony workflows.

Prefilled, sealed reagent cartridges.

Applications

The QIAsymphony SP is an optimal nucleic acid purification system for most applications and workflows

In combination with QIAsymphony DSP Kits (shown above) it automates nucleic acid purification in research and IVD (in vitro diagnostic) workflows.
Supported non-IVD applications include the following:
- Life science, including academic, and biomedical research
- Human identity testing
- Veterinary applications
- Quality control in pharmaceutical environments, e.g., for residual host nucleic acid contamination

As an integrated system in combination with the QIAsymphony AS, the QIAsymphony SP can automate workflows from sample to PCR setup ready for amplification.

Software

QIAsymphony operating software guides the user step-by-step through setting up a sample preparation or assay setup run, with options to select and adapt standardized protocols. Required volumes of buffers, reagents, master mix, and controls are automatically calculated, and the user is informed of the number and type of consumables to be loaded. Transfer of sample loading information from the QIAsymphony SP to the QIAsymphony AS is convenient and reduces the number of steps required for assay definition.

The QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments provide standardized communication interfaces. Work lists and rack files may be imported to the instruments, enabling automatic run definition before samples are received in the laboratory. After assay setup, sample lists can be exported to selected real-time PCR cyclers. This bi-directional data exchange allows integration of QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments into laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Services

Have your throughput demands increased? Do you want to expand your application range or further streamline workflows? Do you need to manage more complex samples? Do you need improved connectivity?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then QIAGEN’s trade-in/trade-up program is just right for you!

QIAGEN makes it easy to keep up to speed with the latest automation and sample processing technologies. Simply exchange an old instrument for a new one. Improve your efficiency by trading in a competitor instrument or trading up with an older QIAGEN instrument.

Learn more about trade-in/trade-up opportunities.

Supporting data and figures

QIAsymphony workflows.

The QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments can be operated in independent or integrated mode.

Specifications

Features	Specifications
Power	100–240 V AC, 50–60 Hz, 1400 VA, mains supply voltage are not to exceed 10% of nominal supply voltages
Input volume	QIAsymphony SP — minimum input volume: 200 µl (application dependent)
Operating temperature	15–32°C
Pollution level	2
Place of operation	For indoor use only
Elution volume	QIAsymphony SP — 30–500 µl (application dependent)
Kits or Application Packs designed for this instrument	QIAsymphony SP — QIAsymphony DSP Virus/Pathogen Kits and other QIAsymphony Kits; QIAsymphony AS — artus QS-RGQ Kits (not available in all countries), Rotor-Gene Kits and other QIAGEN real-time and end-point PCR kits
Overvoltage category	II
Humidity	Relative humidity of 15–75% (noncondensing); maximum 75% relative humidity for temperatures up to 31°C, decreasing linearly to 50% humidity at 32°C
Instrument dimensions	QIAsymphony SP, 128 x 103 x 73 cm; QIAsymphony AS, 59 x 103 x 73 cm; QIAsymphony SP/AS (integrated operation), 185 x 103 x 73 cm
Processing	Automated
Protocols/main application on this instrument	QIAsymphony SP — Purification of DNA, RNA, and bacterial and viral nucleic acids from a wide range of starting materials; QIAsymphony AS — PCR setup.
Storage temperature	5–40°C in manufacturer's package
Technology	QIAsymphony SP — QIAGEN magnetic-particles chemistry
Transportation temperature	–25 to 70°C in manufacturer's package
Weight	QIAsymphony SP, 175 kg; QIAsymphony AS, 90 kg; QIAsymphony SP/AS (integrated operation), 265 kg
Altitude	Up to 2000 m (6500 ft)

Service Plans

QIAsymphony SP/AS, Premium Agreement

Cat. No. / ID: 9242508

On-site QIAsymphony SP/AS instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of next business day. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Premium Agreement period..

Inquire

QIAsymphony SP, Premium Agreement

Cat. No. / ID: 9241208

On-site QIAsymphony SP instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of next business day. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Premium Agreement period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony AS, Premium Agreement

Cat. No. / ID: 9244820

On-site QIAsymphony AS instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of next business day. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Premium Agreement period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony SP/AS, Full Agreement

Cat. No. / ID: 9242507

On-site QIAsymphony SP/AS instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of two business days. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Full Agreement period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony SP, Full Agreement

Cat. No. / ID: 9241207

On-site QIAsymphony SP instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of two business days. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Full Agreement period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony AS, Full Agreement

Cat. No. / ID: 9244819

On-site QIAsymphony AS instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of two business days. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Full Agreement period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony SP, Preventive Subscription

Cat. No. / ID: 9243545A

One on-site Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service visit for the QIAsymphony SP, including travel, labor and parts. Includes a 10% discount on repair services during the Preventive Subscription period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony SPAS Preventive Subscription

Cat. No. / ID: 9243546A

One on-site Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service visit for the QIAsymphony SP/AS, including travel, labor and parts. Includes a 10% discount on repair services during the Preventive Subscription period.

Inquire

QIAsymphony AS, Preventive Subscription

Cat. No. / ID: 9244817A

One on-site Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service visit for the QIAsymphony AS, including travel, labor and parts. Includes a 10% discount on repair services during the Preventive Subscription period.

Inquire

Resources

Download Safety Data Sheets for QIAGEN product components.

For QIAsymphony Software version 5.0

For use with QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments (software version 5.0)

Explore our new, easy-to-navigate digital Product Profile!

Software document for QIAsymphony software version 4.0.1

For use with QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments (software version 5.0)

Differences between QIAsymphony software versions

High-throughput DNA sample prep using the QIAsymphony SP instrument: An overview of workflow optimization at Bode Cellmark Forensics.

Labware package SOW-516-0-08 for use with the QIAsymphony SP/AS instruments (software version 5.0)

FAQ

RNA processed on the QIAsymphony SP with the QIAsymphony RNA Kit can be eluted in 200, 100, or 50 µl.

Elution in smaller volumes will provide higher concentration, but lower overall yield. Total RNA yield with elution in 50 µl will be about 20% lower compared to elution in 100 µl.

FAQ ID -1943

Using the Standard protocol for RNA extraction on the QIAsymphony SP, up to 400 µl of lysate can be processed while the Large-Volume protocol allows up to 800 µl of homogenate.

FAQ ID -1939

The RLT buffer is more viscous than the RLT plus buffer. Extraction will work fine, but there may be some magnetic bead carryover to the eluate.

FAQ ID - 3533

For most sample types, incubating longer than specified in the pretreatment protocol for the QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit does not increase yields. However, lysates can be incubated overnight without negatively affecting the quality of the extracted DNA.

FAQ ID -2032

No. Sample handling, software, and introduction to maintenance for the QIAsymphony SP System are included in the installation training and are covered by the installation fee.

FAQ ID -1900

The following disinfectants and detergents are recommended for cleaning the QIAsymphony SP:

Mikrozid® Tissues (Schülke & Mayr GmbH) — 150 tissues with 235 g agent (consists of 24g (94%) ethanol and 35g 1-propanol per 100g agent)
Mikrozid Liquid (Schülke & Mayr GmbH) — ethanol-based disinfectant for spraying onto surfaces (consists of 25 g ethanol and 35 g 1-propanol per 100 g agent solution)
RBS®-35 Detergent Concentrate (Pierce Chemical Co.) — anionic and nonionic surfactant based detergent for cleaning the touch screen and worktable door.
RNaseZap® (Ambion) — for complete removal of RNase contamination from glass and plastic surfaces
0.1 M NaOH — for cleaning the worktable and racks to remove RNase contamination (alternative to RNaseZap)

Europe

Lysetol® AF (Gigsept® Instru AF) (Schülke & Mayr GmbH) — disinfectant for submerging worktable items (consists of 14 g cocospropylene-diamine-guanidine diacetate, 35 g phenoxypropanols, and 2.5 g benzalkonium chloride per 100 g Lysetol AF, with anticorrosion components, fragrance, and 15-30% nonionic surfactants

USA

DECON-QUAT® 100 (Veltek Associates, Inc.) — quaternary ammonium salt based disinfectant concentrate for submerging worktable items (contains 5% alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and 5% alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride)

Note: If you want to use disinfectants different from those recommended, ensure that their compositions are similar to those described above.

FAQ ID -1913

No. Modified QIAGEN protocols or custom protocols for QIAsymphony SP can be developed to meet your specific requirements and purchased from QIAGEN.

FAQ ID -1904

No. The use of internal controls with the QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Kits is not mandatory. When using internal controls, they are added to the carrier RNA mixture (total volume of the mixture must be 120 µl).

FAQ ID -2040

Yes. Any number of samples between 1 and 96 can be processed on the QIAsymphony SP.

FAQ ID -1906

The barcode on the adapter at the cooling elution position is read by default. This can be changed in the configuration settings which are available from the tools menu if you have logged in as Supervisor. The option is on the tab Process SP1 and is called ”On which elution slots should the bar codes be scanned”. To disable the barcode reading, put the setting to ”none”.

FAQ ID - 3532

For purification of RNA from blood on the QIAsymphony SP, we recommend using the QIAsymphony PAXgene RNA Kit, since it includes stabilization of gene expression profiles.

FAQ ID -1945

The ACS specifies the combination of a protocol and a predefined carrier RNA–internal control mixture. The user can define an internal control mixture using the QIAsymphony Management Console. A predefined internal control-carrier RNA-Buffer AVE mixture can be automatically identified by the instrument using a bar code label or it can be chosen manually.

FAQ ID -2933

The QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Mini Kit is used with the 'Cellfree_200' and 'Complex_200' protocols.

The QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Midi Kit is used with the 'Cellfree_500’, 'Cellfree_1000', ‘Complex_400’ and 'Complex_800' protocols.

FAQ ID -2038

Part number for O-rings for pipetting channels of QIAsymphony SP and AS instruments is 9019168. There are 32 O-rings included in one bag.

You will also require the tool to change the O-rings. Part number for this tool is: 9019164. This tool set includes one bag of 32 O-rings.

We recommend replacing O-rings on all pipetting channels, once a month.

FAQ ID -3055

Yes, this is possible from software version 4.1 on. Please ask Technical Service for an update. The respective language package can be found on https://www.qiagen.com/de/resources/resourcedetail?id=7d184844-365d-43bf-95f4-0031cd5a4b8e&lang=en

FAQ ID - 3595

Tissue and FFPE tissue can be processed using the tissue protocols and the QIAsymphony DSP DNA Mini Kit on the QIAsymphony SP.

FAQ ID -2925

No. All solid materials (e.g., swabs, blood card punches, chewing gum) must be removed completely from the lysate before performing automated extraction on the QIAsymphony SP. QIAshredder columns can be used to increase sample recovery from some solid materials. For more information, see the corresponding pretreatment protocol.

FAQ ID -2027

For purification of RNA on the QIAsymphony SP, tissue samples require mechanical disruption and homogenization in the supplied lysis buffer (Buffer RLT Plus), e.g., by using the TissueLyser or TissueRuptor. Cultured cells should be lysed by vortexing in the lysis buffer contained in the kit.

FAQ ID -1938

Please navigate to Tools/Instrument Report/Create + Save to USB.

FAQ ID - 3594

No. We do not recommend use of carrier RNA with the QIAsymphony Virus Blood 200 Protocol.

FAQ ID -2163

In general, magnetic particles are not carried over into QIAsymphony eluates. However, if high amounts of genomic DNA are purified (large number of white blood cells in the sample) magnetic-particle carryover may be observed. If carryover does occur, magnetic particles in eluates will not affect most downstream applications. If magnetic particles need to be removed before performing downstream applications, tubes or plates containing eluates should first be placed in a suitable magnet and the eluates transferred to a clean tube.

FAQ ID -2166

Tissue: If no information about the expected yield is available, we recommend starting with 25 mg sample material. Depending on the yield obtained, the sample size can be increased in subsequent preparations to a maximum of 50 mg.

FFPE: Up to 4 sections, each with a thickness of up to 10 µm, or 8 sections with a thickness of up to 5 µm and a surface area of up to 250 mm2, can be combined in one preparation.

FAQ ID -2927

Eluates obtained on the QIAsymphony SP can be stored at 2–8°C for 3 days before use in downstream applications and should be placed at –20°C or –80°C for long-term storage.

FAQ ID -2165

Plasma, serum, and CSF samples can be processed using the Virus Cellfree protocols of the QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Kits. Respiratory samples (sputum, BAL, aspirates, dried swabs, transport media), and urogenital samples (urine, urogenital swabs, transport media) can be processed using the Pathogen Complex protocols.

FAQ ID -2036

Yes. Samples have to be completely lysed and homogenized prior to automated processing on the QIAsymphony SP platform using the QIAsymphony DSP DNA Mini Kit. Tissue samples are lysed by proteinase K digestion. FFPE tissue samples are deparaffinized with Deparaffinization Solution or xylene/ethanol and lysed by proteinase K digestion. Insoluble material is pelleted by centrifugation. Lysates are placed on the QIAsymphony SP for purification of DNA (see protocol sheets for details).

FAQ ID -2926

DNA yields strongly depend on the type and source of the tissue processed on the QIAsymphony SP. Approximately 70–80 µg DNA can be isolated from 25 mg of spleen, 40–50 µg from 25 mg liver, and 10–15 µg from 50 mg muscle.

FAQ ID -1919

200–1000 µl sample volumes can be processed on the QIAsymphony Sample Prep Module.

FAQ ID -1907

The maximum amount of tissue that can be processed on the QIAsymphony SP using QIAsymphony DNA Mini Kit is 50 mg, and the maximum number of cultured cells is 1 x 10⁷.

See details for upper limits of various starting materials in the table below:

Sample type	Sample amount	Protocol
Heart	25 mg	Tissue Standard
Spleen	25 mg	Tissue High Content
Lung	25 mg	Tissue Standard
Liver	25 mg	Tissue High Content
Kidney	25 mg	Tissue Standard
Muscle	50 mg	Tissue Standard
Mouse tail	0.8 cm	Tissue Standard
Jurkat Cells	2 x 10e6	Tissue Standard
Jurkat Cells	1 x 10e7	Tissue High Content

FAQ ID -1917

The QIAsymphony system has an integrated UV lamp. UV decontamination should be performed daily. It helps to reduce possible pathogen contamination of the QIAsymphony SP/AS worktables. The efficiency of inactivation has to be determined for each specific organism and depends, for example, on layer thickness and sample type. QIAGEN cannot guarantee complete eradication of specific pathogens.

FAQ ID - 3714

A total of 192 samples can be processed with one QIAsymphony DNA Mini Kit and the Virus Blood 200 protocol (96 samples per reagent cartridge).

FAQ ID -2159

QIAGEN protocols on the QIAsymphony SP can be stopped if there is an emergency by pressing "Pause". To confirm that you want to stop the protocol run, press "Stop". To cancel the stop protocol command, press "Continue".

Note: If a protocol run is stopped, the run cannot be restarted. Samples must be processed manually. For more information, refer to the QIAsymphony User Manual.

FAQ ID -1912

Yes, the QIAsymphony RNA Kit is compatible with stabilized samples. We recommend stabilizing tissue samples with RNAprotect Tissue Reagent or AllProtect Tissue Reagent, or by flash-freezing. Cultured cells can be lysed directly in cell culture dishes, or after pelleting. Alternatively, cells can be stabilized using RNAprotect Cell Reagent.

FAQ ID -1944

Plasma, serum, and CSF samples can be processed using the QIAsymphony DSP Virus/Pathogen cellfree protocols. Respiratory samples (sputum, BAL, aspirates, dried swabs, transport media), and urogenital samples (urine, urogenital swabs, transport media) can be processed using the pathogen complex protocols.

FAQ ID -2928

Sample volumes of 200 µl can be processed with the Virus Blood 200 Protocol using the QIAsymphony DNA Mini Kit.

FAQ ID -2156

After pretreatment, 220 µl of the lysates must be transferred to the QIAsymphony SP to ensure that 200 µl of sample is processed.

FAQ ID -2992

Lysis time varies depending on the tissue type processed. For recommended lysis times refer to the tissue protocol sheets. If lysis is incomplete after recommended lysis time, as indicated by the presence of insoluble material or highly viscous lysates, lysis time can be prolonged or insoluble material can be removed by centrifugation. Overnight lysis is possible and does not affect the preparation.

FAQ ID -2993

Yes. Samples have to be completely lysed and homogenized prior to automated processing on the QIAsymphony SP platform using QIAsymphony DNA Kits.

Samples are lysed by Proteinase K digestion in lysis buffers optimized for tissue, cultured cells, and bacteria, respectively. For lysis of gram-positive bacteria, lysozyme is used in addition to Proteinase K. Lysed samples are homogenized by pipetting up and down, and insoluble material is removed by centrifugation (see the QIAsymphony DNA Handbook for details).

FAQ ID -1916

Samples should be processed on the QIAsymphony within 24 hours of collection. Samples should be transported and stored at 2–25°C.

FAQ ID -2157

No. The specified lysate volumes are optimal for QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit protocols. Lower volumes (150 µl, 400 µl, 900 µl, respectively) can be used.

However, to maximize yields, we recommend transferring as much of the lysate as possible. QIAshredder columns can be used to increase recovery from some sample types. For more information, see the corresponding pretreatment protocol.

FAQ ID -2031

The QIAsymphony SP instrument has the following weight and dimensions:

Weight: 178 kg (392.4 lb.); 220 kg (485 lb.) with packaging
Width: 130 cm (51.2 in.)
Depth: 75 cm (29.5 in.); 125 cm (49.2 in.) with drawer open
Height (door closed): 103 cm (40.6 in.)
Height (door open): 163 cm (64.2 in.)

FAQ ID -1901

Yes, QIAsymphony SP can be connected to a lab information management system. Result files can be exported in html format. At a later date, users will be able to import sample worklists to the QIAsymphony SP.

FAQ ID -1909

The QIAsymphony RNA Kit enables purification of RNA from cultured cells and easy-to-lyse tissues, such as kidney, liver, and spleen on the QIAsymphony SP. A large-volume protocol is available that enables processing of larger sample amounts.

Cultured cells: up to 3x10⁶ cells (standard protocol); up to 1x10⁷ (large volume protocol)
Tissues: up to 20 mg of most tissues (standard protocol); up to 50 mg (large-volume protocol)

For particularly DNA-rich tissues, such as spleen or thymus, we recommend either using no more than half the maximum amount, or using DNase at a higher concentration (see the QIAsymphony RNA Handbook; additional DNase required).

FAQ ID -1937

Sample volumes that can be processed with the QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Kits depend on the protocol:

'Cellfree_200' and 'Complex_200': 200 µl
'Complex_800': 800 µl
'Cellfree_1000': 1000 µl

FAQ ID -2037

Human whole blood samples treated with EDTA or citrate can be processed using the QIAsymphony Virus Blood 200 protocol with the QIAsymphony DNA Mini Kit. We do not recommend using heparin-treated blood samples.

FAQ ID -2154

Yes. The DNA Tissue protocols on the QIAsymphony SP purify genomic and mitochondrial DNA.

FAQ ID -1921

You can find this information in the respective labware list. All tubes which require an insert in the sample input carrier or plates are not suitable.

FAQ ID - 3590

Yes. QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit protocols purify both genomic and mitochondrial DNA.

FAQ ID -2030

Strongly denaturing conditions in the lysis buffer (Buffer RLT Plus) of the QIAsymphony RNA Kit keep RNases in an inactive state. Keeping homogenates on the QIAsymphony instrument at room temperature (20-25°C) for over 6 hours does not impair RNA integrity.

FAQ ID -1941

Final elution volumes of 60 µl, 85 µl, 110 µl, or 165 µl can be selected using the QIAsymphony Virus Blood 200 protocol. Please note that the initial elution volumes are 95 µl, 120 µl, 145 µl, or 200 µl. When calculating the amount of internal control(s) as well as the titer of the processed sample, it is necessary to take into consideration the initial volume of elution buffer that is used for each sample.

FAQ ID -2160

No. Protocols on the QIAsymphony SP cannot be modified by users. However, protocols allow elution volumes to be selected within a predefined range. Customized protocols for QIAsymphony SP will be available on request.

FAQ ID -1903

Code 39, code 128 and subtypes, Codabar

FAQ ID - 3598

The High Content protocol for DNA extractions on the QIAsymphony SP is optimized for samples with an expected DNA yield of more than 30 µg. Up to 90 µg DNA can be purified from tissues with high cell densities (e.g., spleen) or large numbers of cultured cells.

FAQ ID -1918

Yes, clot detection is possible on the QIAsymphony.

FAQ - ID 3588

Samples are mixed before pipetting by the QIAsymphony SP Module.

FAQ ID -1905

Yes. At the end of each protocol run on the QIAsymphony SP, a report file is generated that contains important information such as number of samples, liquid volumes measured during the load check, and run time. A log file is also generated that contains information about instrument actions, such as movement of the robotic arm.

FAQ ID -1911

Depending on the application, elution volumes on the QIAsymphony SP range from 30 µl to 500 µl.

FAQ ID -1908

The large-volume protocol of the QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit is intended for samples that can not be submerged completely during lysis in volumes less than 1 ml, as well as samples that are very absorbent.

FAQ ID -2034

Please see expected yields of total RNA isolated with the QIAsymphony RNA Kit on the QIAsymphony SP in the table below:

Sample type	Sample amount	Typical RNA yield (µg)*
Cultured Cells
HeLa, Jurkat	1 x 10e6 cells	15
Rat tissues
Kidney	10 mg	10-25
Liver	10 mg	20-50
Lung	10 mg	5-10
Spleen	10 mg	25-35

*RNA yields strongly depend on the type and quality of the sample material.

FAQ ID -1942

Various types of tissue, cultured cells, and bacterial pellets can be processed using the tissue protocols for the QIAsymphony DNA Kits on the QIAsymphony SP.

FAQ ID -1915

Pre-treatment of samples used with the QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Kits can improve nucleic acid extraction for some sample types. Viscous samples (e.g., sputum, respiratory aspirates) might require liquefaction to enable pipetting. Pretreatment protocols are provided in the QIAsymphony Virus/Bacteria Handbook.

FAQ ID -2039

Yes. Magnetic particles used in the QIAsymphony SP System will bind RNA and total DNA. If isolation of RNA-free DNA is required, RNase A must be added to the lysate before isolation of DNA.

FAQ ID -1920

No, currently only barcodes can be used to label samples for QIAsymphony. We have no plans to introduce QR code recognition any time soon.

FAQ ID - 3625

Power consumption of a QIAsymphony SP instrument is 800 VA. Therefore, the approximate thermal output is 2729 BTU/h.

If the QIAsymphony SP is connected to a QIAsymphony AS, then the power consumption is 1400 VA. The thermal output is ~4777 BTU/h.

FAQ ID -3057

QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit protocols are optimized for maximum sensitivity in extraction of typical forensic-casework and reference sample types, which usually have low DNA content. Due to optimized bead capacity, maximum DNA yields are approximately 3 µg.

FAQ ID -2028

Only tubes with a diameter < 15 mm can be used for clot detection on the QIAsymphony.

FAQ ID - 3589

Please navigate to the Product Page of the QIAsymphony Kit you are using; for example, the QIAsymphony RNA Kit, Cat No./ID: 931636. Refer to the resources tab and download the labware document. The labware document will list the sample tubes that have been tested for your application. Please contact Technical Service if you wish to use sample tubes not listed in the labware document.

FAQ ID - 3713

Tissues will give increased DNA yields when processed with the high content protocol, but the low content protocol in combination with a small elution volume (50µl) may be used if high DNA concentration is required. For FFPE tissue we recommend using the low content protocol.

FAQ ID -2989

No. Carrier RNA is only used in casework protocols for the QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit to enable efficient extraction of minute quantities of DNA. Carrier RNA is not used in reference protocols.

FAQ ID -2033

No. The use of internal controls is not mandatory for use with the QIAsymphony Virus Blood 200 Protocol. If an internal control is not required, Buffer ATE without internal control is added to the samples. Buffer ATE must be placed in slot A of the sample drawer.

FAQ ID -2162

DNA yields strongly depend on the type and source of the tissue processed on the QIAsymphony SP. For FFPE tissue samples, the DNA yield depends highly on the fixation and processing of the tissue material. QIAsymphony magnetic particles copurify RNA and DNA if both are present in the sample. RNA may influence photometric analysis and may lead to overestimated nucleic acid yields. If RNA-free DNA is required, add RNase A in the step indicated in the respective pretreatment protocol (see protocol sheets for details).

FAQ ID -2990

To decontaminate the QIAsymphony SP, refer to the QIAsymphony User Manual.

FAQ ID -1914

To ensure performance with the QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit, lysis volumes have been optimized according to sample type. In general, large or absorbent samples require larger buffer volumes than small and non-absorbent samples.

FAQ ID -2035

Buffer ATE of the QIAsymphony DNA Investigator Kit is a low-EDTA elution buffer optimized for long-term storage of DNA as well as performance in sensitive downstream applications. Alternatively, casework protocols using water for elution are available.

Buffer ATE contains a small amount of the preservative sodium azide. If the eluate is measured for absorbance the spectrophotometer should be blanked with the buffer ATE as sodium azide absorbs strongly at 230 nm.

FAQ ID -2029

Each QIAsymphony RNA Kit enables preparation of up to 192 samples (96 per reagent cartridge) using the standard protocol on the QIAsymphony SP. If only the large-volume protocol is used, the number of samples that can be prepared per kit is reduced to 96 (48 per reagent cartridge). Any combination of standard and large-volume sample preparation can be performed.

FAQ ID -1940

Yes. The DNA tissue protocols on the QIAsymphony SP purify genomic and mitochondrial DNA.

FAQ ID -2991

The target nucleic acid for the Virus Blood 200 Protocol on the QIAsymphony is viral DNA from released as well as cell-associated viruses, co-purified with genomic DNA from blood cells.

FAQ ID -2158