Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a fixed magnet assembly that can be implemented into automated platforms for performing polynucleotide extraction from biological samples and preparing the polynucleotides into an amplification-ready form. The fixed magnet assembly can be used to provide magnetic energy to a container containing magnetic particles and a reaction mixture of polynucleotides, in order to bring about a separation of the magnetic particles from the reaction mixture. This can prevent or reduce magnetic particle carryover in the prepared amplification-ready sample, thereby improving amplification results.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding sample tubes for sample preparation is provided. The apparatus includes a sample tube holder with an opening to accept a sample tube. The apparatus includes a hinge assembly with a hinge plate and a hinge support, wherein the hinge plate is movable relative to the hinge support. In one example, the hinge plate pivots in two rotation directions and slides in two translational directions relative to the hinge support. The hinge plate limits vertical movement of the sample tube within the sample tube holder. In one aspect, a method includes inserting a sample tube into an opening of a sample tube holder and pivoting and sliding a hinge plate relative to a hinge support, wherein the hinge plate limits vertical movement of the sample tube within the sample tube holder.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a fixed magnet assembly that can be implemented into automated platforms for performing polynucleotide extraction from biological samples and preparing the polynucleotides into an amplification-ready form. The fixed magnet assembly can be used to provide magnetic energy to a container containing magnetic particles and a reaction mixture of polynucleotides, in order to bring about a separation of the magnetic particles from the reaction mixture. This can prevent or reduce magnetic particle carryover in the prepared amplification-ready sample, thereby improving amplification results.