High Throughput Methods for Gene Identification, Cloning and Functional Genomics Using the GeneTAC™ G3 Robotics Workstation

Abstract

Using a single robotic platform, the GeneTACT G 3, we have automated most of the processes involved in the cloning and characterisation of novel disease causing genes by addressing the followings; firstly, identifying the BACs of interest and making shotgun libraries. Secondly, automating the set up of sequencing reactions using methodology that eliminates the need for DNA preparation of 384 clones. Thirdly, generating sub-libraries using selective re-arraying of library clones to enable the determination of the entire genomic sequence of the gene. Fourthly, determining gene function by combination of differential screening and mini Northerns using microarrays printed using the GeneTACT G3 system and hybridised using the GeneTACT HybStation (Genomics Solutions, Ann Arbour, USA).;