Chongqing, China, 28 March 2021 — MGI presented a full range of laboratory automation solutions at the 18th China Association of Clinical Laboratory Practice Expo (CACLP 2021), held from 28 to 30 March in Chongqing.
The showcase featured several innovative systems designed to improve efficiency and scalability in clinical and molecular laboratories. These included the MGISTP automated sample transfer processing systems, MGISP-NE automated nucleic acid extractors, MGISP automated sample preparation platforms, MGIFLP modular sequencing workstations, the MGIGLAB automated production line and the MGI ZLIMS intelligent laboratory management system.
MGISTP Series: High-Speed Automated Sample Transfer
MGI’s proprietary automated sample transfer processing systems, MGISTP-7000 and MGISTP-3000, have received certification from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). These systems are designed for nucleic acid testing and coronavirus detection during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The platforms can transfer 192 samples from airtight sample tubes or standard tubes to 96-well microplates in approximately 40 minutes. By automating repetitive sample preparation steps, the systems reduce manual workload and improve laboratory efficiency.
Two models are available to meet different testing requirements. The MGISTP-7000, equipped with six sample loading plates, can process up to 192 tubes with an average processing time of approximately 15 seconds per sample. The MGISTP-3000, equipped with three loading plates, supports multiple tube types (5–15 ml) and can load up to 96 tubes with an average processing time of around 25 seconds per sample. Both systems can be seamlessly integrated with automated extraction systems within laboratory workflows.
MGISP-NE Series: Rapid Nucleic Acid Extraction
The MGISP-NE series focuses on efficient nucleic acid extraction and purification. Combined with MGI’s rapid extraction reagents, the systems enable effective extraction of viral DNA and RNA from swab samples.
The compact MGISP-NE32 can process between one and 32 samples in just nine minutes, making it suitable for rapid testing environments. The MGISP-NE384 offers higher throughput, processing 96, 192, 288 or 384 samples in approximately 20 minutes. Its capacity is up to four times higher than conventional nucleic acid extraction systems.
Both the systems and their extraction reagents have received NMPA approval and have been widely deployed in laboratories supporting pandemic response efforts.
MGISP Series: Automated Library Preparation and Sample Processing
The MGISP series, including MGISP-100 and MGISP-960, represents the world’s first NMPA-certified automated sample preparation systems. These platforms were designed to simplify the complex processes involved in sequencing library preparation for high-throughput sequencing.
Since development began in 2015 and commercial launch in 2017, the systems have enabled automated processing of key laboratory steps including nucleic acid extraction, magnetic purification, PCR amplification, hybridisation capture and DNA nanoball preparation.
The MGISP-100 can process up to 16 samples per run and is well suited to hospitals and disease control laboratories. The MGISP-960 can process up to 96 samples per run and is commonly used by sequencing service providers handling large sample batches for research and development projects.
Both systems can be seamlessly connected to high-throughput sequencing platforms such as MGISEQ-200 and MGISEQ-2000, enabling a fully automated sequencing workflow.
MGIFLP Series: Modular Mobile Laboratory Solutions
At CACLP 2021, MGI also showcased a compact version of its mobile nucleic acid testing vehicle. These mobile laboratories have played an important role in supporting large-scale testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The vehicle integrates multiple automation systems, including the MGISTP sample transfer processing system, MGISP sample preparation system, MGISP-NE automated nucleic acid extractor and the ZLIMS laboratory management system.
MGI has developed a range of MGIFLP mobile modular laboratory solutions, including nucleic acid testing vehicles, container laboratories and fast setup modular negative pressure laboratories designed for rapid deployment during public health emergencies.
MGIGLAB Series: Ultra-High Throughput Library Preparation
MGI also demonstrated the MGIGLab-L, the world’s first ultra-high-throughput library preparation system.
This streamlined platform integrates MGI’s proprietary instruments with automated robotics from partner providers, creating a comprehensive automation solution for next-generation sequencing library preparation in large-scale projects.
The system can process up to one million samples annually and offers a high degree of customisation, allowing integration into high-throughput molecular diagnostics and large-scale genomics research applications.
MGI ZLIMS: Intelligent Laboratory Information Management
MGI also highlighted its ZLIMS intelligent laboratory information management system, designed to integrate multiple laboratory automation platforms into a centralised digital management system.
ZLIMS can connect with sample transfer systems, nucleic acid extractors, PCR instruments and high-throughput sequencing platforms, enabling comprehensive monitoring and management of laboratory operations.
The platform supports three major areas of laboratory management. First, laboratory environment management, including infrastructure systems such as ventilation, water and electricity, as well as personnel access control and laboratory security. Second, laboratory equipment management, allowing real-time monitoring of instrument performance, failure alerts and consumable replacement schedules. Third, application management, supported by a mobile application that enables technicians to enter sample information, check instrument status and review reports directly from their smartphones.
By integrating laboratory automation with centralised information management, ZLIMS helps molecular diagnostic laboratories operate more efficiently and intelligently.
