Automation of the standard DNA differential extraction on the Hamilton AutoLys STAR system: A proof-of-concept study.

For several decades, a common approach for processing sexual assault evidence has been to use the "standard" differential extraction to separate the evidence into a non-sperm-cell fraction and a sperm-cell fraction for further analysis. In this standard approach (P. Gill et al.

GPCR assay automation for leveraging lead optimization.

The drug discovery process is dependent on the ability of screening efforts to identify and optimize lead compounds with therapeutic potential. Because G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) account for the most "druggable" targets, the development of high-throughput, low-cost, and high-density GPCR assays to accommodate the increasing size of compound collections is significant. In this study, we report the application of an advanced LEADseeker robotic platform equipped with customized IT solutions for rapid data transfer to reduce assay cycles times for support of GPCR panel screening.

Efficient and effective compound management to support lead optimization.

The introduction of lean thinking and Six Sigma methodologies into the drug discovery process has become an important approach for ensuring efficient workflows while containing costs. For the compound management department at Bristol-Myers Squibb, this has resulted in a partnership with the research community to evaluate and streamline processes to enable cost-disciplined science. The authors describe the results of Lean Six Sigma approaches in the automation and informatics environment that have been optimized to support parallel processing of compounds.