Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer: Chip-based electrophoresis analysis system for DNA, RNA and proteins
The Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer is an automated electrophoresis analysis platform that has transformed the way laboratories manage biomolecule analysis. Unlike traditional systems using agarose or polyacrylamide gels, the 2100 Bioanalyzer is based on microfluidic technology that enables separation on a chip. This process significantly reduces processing time while decreasing the volumes of samples and reagents required.
With its 2100 Expert software, the system provides complete instrument control, data management, automated peak analysis and digital report generation. It offers a user-friendly interface for selecting the appropriate analysis methods for each type of chip, managing instrument settings, importing and exporting result files, and viewing data in the form of simulated gels or electropherograms. Each analysis benefits from accurate quantification via internal markers and precise fragment size identification .
This versatile system is capable of processing various types of samples thanks to a wide range of kits: genomic DNA, cDNA, total RNA, messenger RNA, denatured proteins, etc. Each chip comprises interconnected microfluidic channels, electrically activated by a high-precision electrode cartridge. These electrodes apply a distinct electric field to each channel, allowing rapid migration of biomolecules according to their size.
For RNA analysis, the Bioanalyzer provides critical indicators such as the RNA Integrity Number (RIN), which is essential for assessing sample quality prior to sensitive applications such as sequencing or quantitative PCR. Similarly, protein analyses benefit from relative or absolute quantification depending on the standard markers used.
Security and traceability are enhanced by the optional Security Pack, which enables multi-user management, electronic signatures for critical steps, and compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 regulations. This feature is essential for laboratories subject to strict validation standards.
Used in both biomedical research and biotechnology, the Bioanalyzer is an indispensable tool for ensuring the quality, integrity and reliability of the biomolecules being studied. It allows users to compare multiple data sets, configure custom methods, automate repetitive analyses and even operate two instruments simultaneously from a single PC.
Its ergonomic design, ease of use and analytical performance make it the preferred choice in academic and industrial laboratories, where it helps streamline workflows and improve scientific productivity.
