Validated plasticware for PIPs handling in Illumina Single Cell 3’ RNA Prep

The use of validated plastics is critical to the success of Illumina Single Cell 3’ RNA preps. Use of incorrect plastics can result in PIPs sticking to the sidewalls of tips and tubes, which are then lost from the assay. This can result in low yield and low complexity libraries up to complete library loss.

To prevent PIPs loss due to binding to plastics during wash steps, plasticware should be polypropylene and manufactured without the use of slip agents, plasticizers, and biocides - substances demonstrated to leach from plastic samples and adversely impact bio-assay results. Only tubes listed in the Illumina Single Cell 3’ RNA Reference Guides are tested and fully validated. Any alternative suppliers or parts must be tested by the user for workflow compatibility.

Note that plastics used in other, non-Illumina single cell workflows may not necessarily translate to successful use in Illumina Single Cell 3’ RNA. This is because Illumina Single Cell 3’ RNA uses PIPs and emulsion chemistry, which are not used in third party assays.

The recommended plastics include the following.

T2 & T10 kits:

T20 kits:

T100 kits:

For any feedback or questions regarding this article (Illumina Knowledge Article #9621), contact Illumina Technical Support [e-mail].