Automating NGS Library Preparation on Opentrons Flex

This technical report describes an automated protocol for preparing next-generation sequencing (NGS) libraries using the Twist Library Preparation Enzymatic Fragmentation Kit 2.0 and the Twist Universal Adapter System on the Opentrons Flex robot. The document outlines the multi-step process involved in DNA fragmentation, adapter ligation, and PCR amplification, emphasizing the efficiency gained through automation. By combining these steps into a single workflow, the protocol allows users to minimize hands-on time, enabling them to focus on other tasks while the automation handles the sequencing library preparation. The report includes details on the methods used, including sample input and the specific kits employed, as well as the results of the automated process, which showed consistent DNA fragment sizes averaging around 328.1 base pairs. The findings indicate that automation significantly reduces the time required for library preparation compared to manual methods, enhancing laboratory efficiency.