Equipment
The Biospecimen Accessioning and Processing (BAP) Core at Mayo Clinic has approximately 25 networked computer stations with barcode printers and scanners for accessioning, processing, specimen tracking and data management.
The BAP Core in Minnesota is also equipped with:
- Automated RNA/DNA extractors
- Spectrophotometers
- Fluorometers
- Microplate reader
- Bioanalyzer
- Robotic liquid handlers
- Centrifuges
- Microcentrifuges
- Multiple freezers
The core facility supports high-throughput automation with this additional equipment:
- Capper/decappers
- Automated tube sorters
- High throughput sample sorter
- Flatbed scanners
- Volume check (volume detection) instruments
To support operations, the core includes:
- Biological safety cabinets
- Autoclave
- Analytical balance
- Cell counters
- Sample prep freezer mill
- Controlled rate freezer
- Incubators
- Heat blocks
- Water filtration system
BAP Core facilities at Mayo Clinic's campuses in Arizona and Florida are equipped with a DNA extractor, a spectrophotometer, a liquid handler and necessary instrumentation to support automated sample processing (such as a capper/decapper, volume check). Having the same equipment at all three campuses unites the three BAP Core facilities into a single, foundation wide unit.
Frozen specimens are stored in high-capacity, automated, freezers set at a temperature of 80°C below zero (with a total capacity to store approximately 70 million 1.4-mL cryovials) or in conventional upright freezers at a temperature of 80°C below zero and liquid nitrogen vapor-phase freezers.