PBI Barocycler 2320EXT Sample Preparation System

For the PCT-HD Sample Preparation System

Pressure Cycling Technology (PCT) is a unique, patented technology platform based on repeated cycles of hydrostatic pressure between ambient (14.7 psi) and ultra-high levels. These rapid changes in pressure are used to control biomolecular interactions for applications such as accelerated proteolytic digestion, and improved extraction of cellular components, including proteins and lipids. The PCT platform allows for a high degree of safety, speed, reproducibility, and convenience in modern sample preparation protocols.

The PCT-HD Sample Preparation System is a proven PCT-based workflow for processing small tissue samples for proteomic and other applications. PCT-HD combines efficient, hands-off tissue homogenization and protein extraction with pressure-enhanced digestion, for rapid, efficient and reproducible generation of peptides for MS analysis. This unique workflow combines two of PBI’s innovative sample preparation tools: the Barocycler 2320EXT and our patentpending PCT MicroPestles. PCT-HD and the Barocycler 2320EXT can provide unprecedented speed and reproducibility for biomarker discovery, yielding peptides ready for clean-up and MS within 2-4 hours from the start of tissue processing.

The Barocycler 2320EXT is a compact, bench top instrument that can process up to 16 samples simultaneously using PCT MicroTubes. Features that come standard with the 2320EXT include: data input and output options to accommodate validation and quality control; computer-operated control with touch screen programming and automatic data logging; and the ability to control multiple pressure cycling parameters, such as the rate of pressure increase/decrease, both the high and low pressure levels, and the shape of the pressure profile (e.g., sine wave, square wave, and others). In addition, the 2320EXT is available with a choice of two different methods for temperature control (an external circulating waterbath for heating and cooling, or a built-in electric heater).

Patent Pending

The Barocycler 2320EXT

• Computer-operated control with Touch Screen Interface
• Pressure Range: ambient - 45,000psi (310 MPa)
• Choice of temperature control - heating/cooling or heating only
• Max Temperature: 95˚C
• Min Temperature: 4˚C with circulating waterbath, ambient with electric heating
• Insulated closure for easier use at high temperatures
• Chamber capacity: up to 16 samples in MicroTubes
• Easily accessible USB port on front panel
• Requires 110psi input air pressure
• Input air pressure can be provided by an air compressor, house air or nitrogen lines, air or nitrogen tanks.
• Pressure medium: Distilled Water

Touch Screen Interface

Pressure Profiles are programmed via an onboard touch screen, which can be connected to a network. The instrument is also equipped with a USB port that can be used to connect a mouse or keyboard to the 2320EXT.

• Pressure Mode Settings: Barocycler, Ramp, Waveform
• Cycled or Static Pressure
• Network Enabled
• Automatic Logging of All Run Parameters
• Data Output 
• Save and Record Programs
• Real-time pressure display graph shows pressure and temperature throughout the run
• Touch Screen Temperature Control (with electric heating option only)

MicroTubes and MicroPestles

The 2320EXT comes with a full MicroTube Adapter Kit, that includes the MicroTube Cartridges, Capper Tool, and other accessories that are required when using PCT MicroTubes in the 2320EXT. PCT μPestles, used in conjunction with PCT MicroTubes in the Barocycler, are designed for rapid, hands-off homogenization and extraction when working with minute amounts of solid tissue. PCT MicroTubes and MicroPestles are an integral part of the PCT-HD workflow.

• Process up to 3mg of solid tissue in 30uL of extraction reagent
• Process as few as 5 x 104 cells
• MicroTubes are constructed of non-wetting, low binding FEP plastic
• MicroPestles are made from inert PTFE (Teflon)