Next generation sequencing requires the use of high quality analytes for precision and reproducibility.
Service offer Sample Processing Lab (SPL) provides expertise in the controlled isolation of DNA, RNA, and proteins from different sources of material such as tissue biopsies, FFPE tissue blocks, blood, saliva and cells followed by state-of-the-art quality control measures (standardized fluorometric concentration measurements and integrity check of DNA/RNA samples using automated low-volume techniques). All procedures are performed using standardized operation procedures (SOPs) and Quality Management System according to the international standard DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025.
Samples are registered, tracked and stored with a sample-specific identifier and every processing step is documented in the SPL database. Our service also includes the transfer of suitable samples to the DKFZ Genomics and Proteomics Core Facility (GPCF) for sequencing or array analyses.
In addition to our participation in the Molecular Precision Oncology Program we offer our service to all NCT and DKFZ/DKTK members.
Over and above to our routine techniques, we are constantly developing and optimizing extraction and QC procedures for new methods. We work closely together with our project partners on initial extraction advice and testing as well as on protocol adaptations according to specific project requirements.
For detailed information about our service please contact Dr. Katrin Pfütze: SPL-contact@dkfz-heidelberg.de
NCT Sample Processing Lab
Quality management
Since 2017 we successfully take part in round robin tests. By July 2020 the SPL was accredited according to the international standard DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 which defines the competence requirements for testing and calibration laboratories. The compliance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 is secured through accreditation by a national accreditation body (DAkkS) and independent internal audits.
The current annex to our accreditation certificate contains the accredited parameters and can be downloaded here.
The key objectives of our quality management system include:
- Ensuring the highest possible quality of the services we offer (please review our schedule of services).
- Objective proof of the quality and competence of the SPL according to international standards.
- Implementation of internal and external quality controls for quality assurance of laboratory procedures (e.g. standardised control samples for extraction and testing methods, participation in proficiency-testing programs/lab comparison tests).
- Shortest possible turnaround time for the analyses due to efficiently organized workflows.
- All team members are highly qualified, undergo regular further training and are used to act on their own responsibility.
Service offer Sample Processing Lab (SPL) and list of the flexible accredited methods
(Flexible accreditation: The testing laboratory is permitted to use the standardized test methods listed here, or those that are equivalent to them, with different editions, without requiring prior information and approval from DAkkS. The testing laboratory has a current list of all test methods in the flexible accreditation range)
based on CD_B069_ADM_GE_Leistungsverzeichnis V4.0 valid from 20.03.2024
*dependent on the input different protocols are used
** dependend on the project different protocols are used
Abbreviations:
DNA: desoxyribonucleic acid
RNA: ribonucleic acid
cfDNA: circulating free DNA
FFPE: Formalin fixed paraffin embedded
RIN: RNA integrity number
DIN: DNA integrity number
For further details concerning the SPL and provided methodes, please feel free to contact Dr. Katrin Pfütze: SPL-contact@dkfz-heidelberg.de
