Compact dual-mode system for optimised qPCR quantification

Thermo Fisher Scientific has unveiled a compact, dual-mode instrument that unites UV-Vis spectrophotometry and fluorescence detection to streamline nucleic acid analysis. Designed for research and biomanufacturing labs, the NanoDrop™ Ultra Microvolume UV-Vis Spectrophotometer and Fluorometer system supports precise DNA and RNA quantification with just 1-2 microlitres of sample, conserving valuable materials while optimising throughput.

At the core of the system is a combined measurement platform that delivers both absorbance and fluorescence readings from the same pedestal. This integrated setup eliminates the need for separate instruments, freeing up bench space and simplifying workflows. Tailored for labs running qPCR, the NanoDrop Ultra supports confident sample preparation through software-guided compatibility with a wide range of qPCR kits.

The instrument is equipped with Thermo Scientific’s Acclaro™ Sample Intelligence technology, a spectral deconvolution engine that identifies contaminants and distinguishes between nucleic acid types. Whether working with plant, bacterial, or mammalian material, researchers can rely on enhanced libraries and algorithms to detect impurities that may compromise qPCR outcomes.

For labs managing high-throughput workflows, the optional Acclaro Pro Software enhances analysis of complex or concentrated samples - a crucial feature for quality control in regulated environments such as biologics production.

The NanoDrop Ultra also incorporates modern data connectivity options, including RESTful API support. This allows seamless integration with lab information management systems (LIMS) and centralised data repositories, helping labs maintain audit trails and streamline reporting.

Unlike many fluorescence instruments that rely on costly consumables, the NanoDrop Ultra requires no proprietary tubes and handles assays with as little as 1 microlitre of material. This efficiency makes it well suited for settings where sample conservation is a priority.

From academic research facilities to industrial biopharma labs, the NanoDrop Ultra offers a practical solution for accurate nucleic acid quantification, enabling more reliable results, better-informed decisions, and ultimately, more reproducible science.

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