Sample Preparation Instructions

AGC Sample Preparation Instructions

The AGC accepts aliquots in either tubes or plates. You must select either tubes or plates when you create your Service Request in MiCores. You can use either plates or tubes, as you prefer. We recommend using a plate when you have more than 7 aliquots in your submission. When submitting samples in plates, please use 96-well, skirted PCR plates.

Once your Service Request has been accepted by the core, you will get an email with the  Core Sample Ids or Core Plate Ids. You must label your tubes, plates, and bag with these numbers or your submission will be returned to you.

You should print out the PDF attachments from your acceptance email from the Core. You will need it for labeling, and you can then put it inside your submission bag.

 

1) Aliquot Into Tubes or Plates

You selected tubes or plates when you created your submission in MiCores. Detailed instructions for each are below.

Remember: Do not submit your entire sample. The AGC does not return unused aliquots.

 

1a) Preparing Tubes

  1. Aliquot your samples into 1.5 ml tubes.
  2. Securely close the tube caps.
  3. Make sure that Core Sample Id numbers are clearly written on the top of each tube. Like this:AGC Submission Instruction Rack
  4. See below for instructions on putting your samples into a plastic zip-top bag and getting them to the Core.

 

1b) Preparing Plates:

  1. If submitting samples in plates, use 96-well, skirted PCR plates. Skirted plates help prevent bending, which can lead to leakage, during transit. The plates should be sealed with a foil cover capable of withstanding -80°C temperatures.
    • Product Examples
      • Plates:
        • VWR #83007-374 VWR 96-Well PCR and Real Time PCR Plates; Half-skirt
        • VWR #82006-704 VWR 96-Well PCR and Real Time PCR Plates; skirted
        • Eppendorf #30129504 Eppendorf twin.tec PCR Plate 96 LoBind, semi-skirted, PCR clean
      • Seals:
        • VWR #30623-776 AlumaSeal 96 Sealing Foil (EXCEL), Nonsterile
        • Corning #6570 Corning 96-well Microplate Aluminum Sealing Tape, Nonsterile
  2. Aliquot your samples into plates using the plate map included in the acceptance email from the Core.
  3. Note that your samples will be be arranged vertically (in columns) as shown here:
    AGC Example Plate Map
  4. Follow the instructions below on putting your samples into a plastic zip-top bag and getting them to the Core.

 

2) Bag the aliquots

  1. Using a zip-top bag that you supply, write the Submission Id on the bag in permanent waterproof pen.
  2. Place all tubes or plates into the zip-top bag.
  3. Place your printed attachments inside the bag.
  4. The next step depends on where you will be dropping off your samples:
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