Revolutionary Workflow Through Automated Analysis of Biological Samples  

Shimadzu has released the CLAM-2030 fully automated preparation module for LC-MS. This module automates everything from the preparation of urine, blood and other biological samples to measurement via liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). In only 3 to 8 minutes, the CLAM-2030 preparation module completes the blood samples preparatory process including the addition of reagents, mixing of the solution and the addition of a deproteinisation liquid, all of which conventionally takes 15 to 20 minutes. Furthermore, if the samples and reagents are placed and positioned in special containers for automatic conveyance to the LC-MS by an autosampler, the module can perform all of the processes automatically, on weekends and overnight.

In recent years at clinical research sites the monitoring of drug concentrations in blood samples, searches for biomarkers and metabolic evaluations have become prevalent due to the arrival of LC-MS, which is capable of high-sensitivity analysis and high-speed processing. At the same time, because preparation is indispensable for blood sample analysis and the processing of infectious samples including pathogens is required, issues remain with respect to the time and workload involved in the measurement of large quantities of samples. In 2015, Shimadzu released the CLAM-2000 fully automated preparation module for LCMS, a precursor to the CLAM-2030, as a means of improving the efficiency of the analysis process. In 2017, this instrument was registered as a class 1 medical device.

In response to the needs of clinical research sites, the CLAM-2030 provides stable data acquisition, lower running costs and improved work efficiency. The module can be connected to four models of triple quadrupole liquid chromatograph mass spectrometers, the LCMS-8040, LCMS-8045, LCMS-8050 and LCMS-8060. Work efficiency is further improved by using it in combination with a commercial analysis kit.

Shimadzu is active in the advanced healthcare business, creating revolutionary products and services in the medical field as part of the company’s current medium-term management plan. Shimadzu will continue to research and develop products and technologies, doing its best for medical personnel and their patients through the widespread adoption of Shimadzu products at clinical sites.

Special features of the CLAM-2020 preparation module are:

Processing of up to 60 Samples
To enable automatic measurement of up to 60 samples, the special preparation containers simply have to be placed in the module. Approximately 20 samples can be processed per hour. If the forensic toxicological database and the rapid toxicology screening system (options available from Shimadzu) are used, the library can be searched automatically and reports can be generated after preparation.

High reliability
A special structure (using septa) prevents vaporisation of internal standard substances, thereby suppressing concentration fluctuations and leading to a more stable measurement process. Additionally, multiple management functions including ID management of samples via a barcode reader (option), management of expiration dates and remaining quantities of reagents, and maintenance log records maintain the module in an optimal state.

Reduced operational mistakes and risk of infections
After samples and reagents are positioned, preparation can be started with simple operations, alleviating mistakes due to manual procedures. The waste box for preparation containers and the waste liquid tank are equipped with full sensors, which help reduce the risk of infections during sample preparation.

More information online: www.shimadzu.eu/clam-2030