# System for unitary automation of library preparation

> **NIH NIH R44** · REDBUD LABS, INC. · 2024 · $1,223,863

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Genomic epidemiology is crucial to outbreak surveillance and response. Sequencing data lets us track virus
evolution in real time to characterize transmission chains, identify emerging variants, and predict future spread.
This information, which cannot be deduced from diagnostic testing alone, can signal the presence of an outbreak
before it becomes a pandemic. To inform corrective action from sequencing data, results must be obtained within
hours, instead of days. The biggest bottleneck to wider adoption of sequencing in distributed settings is sample
and library preparation.
Ideally, automated library prep would be achieved with an easy-to-use, single button device that can be deployed
in resource-limited settings as part of a point-of-need infectious disease surveillance/diagnostic system.
However, given the diversity of sequencing applications, there cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution to library
prep. Instead, we believe the correct strategy is to automate unitary library prep operations, with well-defined
breakpoints in between, enabling the user to mix and match these operations as the application demands. This
strategy will reduce hands-on time and operator burden while maintaining workflow flexibility.
Phase I of this project demonstrated feasibility of automating three library prep operations on the platform, and
compatibility with Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. In Phase II, Redbud Labs will automate these
unitary operations on the NAxtract platform and validate NGS performance on both Illumina and Oxford
Nanopore platforms. Our solution will eliminate approximately 95% of pipette steps from the workflow. At the
conclusion of this project, the platform will be ready for early-access testing in fieldable sequencing
environments, including high-containment public health labs and overseas disease surveillance interventions.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10931834
- **Project number:** 2R44GM145194-02A1
- **Recipient organization:** REDBUD LABS, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Jay Kenneth Fisher
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $1,223,863
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2022-02-17 → 2026-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10931834

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10931834, System for unitary automation of library preparation (2R44GM145194-02A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10931834. Licensed CC0.

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