Automate your metabolomics sample preparation with the Agilent Bravo platform

Significance of the Topic

Manual sample preparation in metabolomics is labor-intensive and prone to variability, which undermines data quality and slows research workflows. Automating key steps ensures consistent, reproducible results across large sample sets, reduces analyst-dependent error, and accelerates discovery of meaningful biomarkers.

Objectives and Article Overview

This application note introduces the Agilent Bravo Metabolomics Sample Prep Platform, an automated system designed to standardize plasma-based metabolite extraction. Key aims include:

• Standardize sample handling to improve downstream LC/MS analysis
• Minimize analyst variability and batch-to-batch inconsistencies
• Reduce hands-on time, replicates, and costly rework

Methodology

The automated workflow encompasses:

1. Sample quenching and loading onto 96-well plates
2. Lipid removal using Captiva EMR—Lipid technology coupling size exclusion and hydrophobic interaction
3. Vacuum-assisted filtration for rapid cleanup
4. Automated orbital shaking for controlled mixing steps
5. Sample drying and storage followed by reconstitution prior to LC/MS analysis

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent Bravo automated liquid handling platform with 96-channel disposable tip head (2–250 µL range)
• Captiva EMR—Lipid 96-well plates for selective lipid depletion
• Vacuum station module for reproducible filtration
• Orbital shaking station for controlled agitation
• Bravo Metabolomics Workbench software for protocol control
• Integrates with Agilent or third-party LC/MS systems (e.g., 1200 Infinity II LC, triple quadrupole or Q-TOF MS)

Main Results and Discussion

Lipid removal performance

• Captiva EMR—Lipid plates achieved higher depletion across major lipid classes compared with centrifugation alone, reducing ion suppression and enhancing target analyte signals.

Reproducibility metrics

• Automated extraction yielded lower interday coefficients of variation (CV) for the top 50 metabolites versus manual preparation, indicating improved precision and consistency across days and operators.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The automated platform delivers:

• Operator-independent consistency and reduced variability
• Improved throughput through walk-away operation
• Fewer replicate analyses and reduced consumable waste
• Streamlined integration into existing LC/MS workflows for both discovery and targeted metabolomics

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include:

• Extension to other biological matrices (urine, tissue extracts)
• Integration with data-driven quality control and machine learning optimization
• Microfluidic and miniaturized sample prep modules for high-density screening
• Cloud-based software platforms for remote protocol management and analytics

Conclusion

The Agilent Bravo Metabolomics Sample Prep Platform offers a robust, automated solution for plasma sample cleanup, ensuring reproducible, high-quality data while reducing hands-on time and variability. Its modular design and intuitive software enable seamless adoption in metabolomics labs aiming for reliable LC/MS workflows.

References

No external literature references were provided in the source document.