Andrew+ Pipetting Robot for Released N-Glycan Analysis

Significance of the Topic

Released N-glycan analysis supports critical quality control in biopharmaceutical development and research on protein glycosylation. Variations in glycan structures can influence therapeutic efficacy, immunogenicity, and stability. Automating complex sample preparation workflows reduces variability, accelerates method validation, and ensures consistent high-quality data.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note describes the configuration of an Andrew+ Pipetting Robot tailored for Waters GlycoWorks RapiFluor-MS N-glycan kits. The goal is to streamline multi-step sample preparation—denaturation, enzymatic deglycosylation, dye labeling, and cleanup—while improving throughput, reproducibility, and overall confidence in analytical results.

Methodology

The automated workflow integrates the following key steps:

• Protein denaturation to expose glycosylation sites
• Enzymatic release of N-glycans using PNGase F
• Covalent labeling of released glycans with RapiFluor-MS dye
• Solid-phase extraction for removal of excess dye

Batch processing options include 8, 24, or 48 samples, with total preparation times ranging from 1 to 2 hours based on sample load.

Used Instrumentation

The automated setup comprises:

• Andrew+ Pipetting Robot core system with waste base and multi-channel pipette adaptors
• Domino modules: Tip Insertion, Storage Plate, Deep-Well Plate, Microtube, Reservoir, and 96-PCR Peltier+
• Vacuum+ connected device for efficient waste removal
• OneLab cloud software providing guided protocols for reagent preparation and sample processing

Main Findings and Discussion

Implementing the Andrew+ system demonstrated precise control over critical parameters such as incubation time, temperature, and reagent volumes. The compact footprint and flexible Domino layout allow seamless deployment on standard laboratory benches or within hoods. Rapid configuration via Dominos and Connected Devices minimized setup time and facilitated consistent execution of the GlycoWorks QC-friendly protocol.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key advantages of the automated workflow include:

• Enhanced assay accuracy and repeatability through precise liquid handling
• Significant reduction in hands-on time and operator-induced variability
• Scalable processing capabilities for low to high throughput demands
• Compatibility with any GlycoWorks RapiFluor-MS N-glycan kit for standardized labeling chemistry

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Ongoing innovations in laboratory automation will likely focus on deeper integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and adoption of AI-driven protocol optimization. Expansion of robotic workflows to include additional glycoanalytics, glycopeptide mapping, and other biotherapeutic characterization assays is anticipated.

Conclusion

The Andrew+ Pipetting Robot configured with GlycoWorks RapiFluor-MS kits delivers a robust, reproducible, and efficient solution for released N-glycan sample preparation. Automation of critical steps enhances data quality, reduces validation burdens, and accelerates time to result in biopharmaceutical research and QC labs.

References

No external references were provided in the source document.