Our FastPrep bead-beating homogenizers are designed to deliver fast and efficient sample disruption, allowing you to extract nucleic acids, proteins, and other biomolecules with ease. With a focus on versatility and reliability, our FastPrep homogenizers offer solutions for a wide range of applications, from genomics and proteomics to drug discovery and clinical research.
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Choosing A FastPrep Instrument
Q: What are FastPrep instruments?
A: FastPrep instruments are high-speed sample preparation devices used to mechanically disrupt biological samples for efficient cell lysis and extraction of nucleic acids, proteins, and other cellular components. They can additionally be used for applications such as grinding soil, sediment, or other environmental samples, as well as for homogenizing food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products. FastPrep instruments are available in different sizes and models and serve as powerful tools for sample processing in various fields of research.
Q: How do FastPrep instruments work?
A: FastPrep instruments utilize bead beating technology to physically break cells using small glass, ceramic, or metal beads and high-speed shaking. The unique motion of the instrument in conjunction with lysing matrix beads allows for the simultaneous lysis and homogenization of biological samples. Our lysing matrix beads come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and compositions to optimize by sample type and ensure complete and reproducible sample preparation.
Q: What are the differences between an MP Biomedicals FastPrep-24â„¢ Classic and FastPrep-24â„¢ 5G?
A: The MP Biomedicals FastPrep-24 Classic and FastPrep-24 5G are both high-speed benchtop homogenizers used for a wide range of sample preparation applications. However, there are some differences between the two models, including:
Motor: The FastPrep-24 5G features a more powerful motor, allowing it to achieve higher speeds for shorter run times and more efficient homogenization of tough or difficult samples. The FastPrep-24 Classic has a maximum speed of 6.51 m/s; the FastPrep-24 5G improves run speed by over 50% with a maximum speed of 10 m/s.
Touchscreen interface: The FastPrep-24 5G has a user-friendly touchscreen interface with 72 pre-defined protocols, allowing for easy programming and control of the homogenization conditions. The FastPrep-24 Classic has a more basic interface with manual controls.
Noise level: The FastPrep-24 5G is designed with a noise-reducing motor housing and operates at a lower decibel level compared to the FastPrep-24 Classic.
Footprint: The FastPrep-24 5G has a slightly larger footprint compared to the FastPrep-24 Classic, although both models are compact.
Compatibility with Lysing Matrix tubes: Both models are compatible with the full range of accessories and lysing matrix tubes, allowing for efficient homogenization of a wide range of sample types.
Q: I’ve heard there can be issues with contamination, scalability and heat during bead-beating. Are these salient issues for FastPrep instruments?
A: Compared to other bead-beating methods, FastPrep instruments have some advantages that can help mitigate the issues of contamination, scalability and heat.
Contamination: FastPrep machines are designed to operate in a closed system, which minimizes the risk of contamination from the environment. The samples are processed in sealed tubes, and disposable tips can be used to prevent cross-contamination between samples.
Scalability: FastPrep machines can accommodate a range of sample volumes, from small samples in microtubes to volumes up to 50 mL. Multiple samples can be processed simultaneously, allowing for high throughput processing. We also offer an instrument that can accommodate large sample volumes (up to 250 mL) and 96-well plates.
Heat generation: FastPrep instruments utilize short bursts of high-speed agitation, which reduces the amount of heat generated during the process. Cooling blocks can also be used between cycles to further reduce the sample temperature. Additionally, MP Bio offers special adapters encompassing a cooling chamber that can protect thermosensitive molecules from heat degradation during processing.
However, it's important to note that while FastPrep systems can help minimize these issues, optimization of bead type and conditions is still critical for achieving maximum yields, purity, and integrity of samples.
Q: What accessories are available for FastPrep instruments?
A: Our FastPrep instruments are powerful homogenizers that are compatible with a wide range of accessories and consumables. Some of the top accessories include:
Lysing matrix tubes: These tubes contain different types of beads or matrices that are crucial for efficient and effective homogenization. The size of the beads or matrices in Lysing Matrix tubes for FastPrep devices ranges from 0.1 mm to 7 mm, depending on the type of matrix. For example, Lysing Matrix A contains 1.4 mm ceramic beads, while Lysing Matrix H contains 0.1 mm silica spheres. The different sizes and compositions of the beads or matrices are designed to optimize the homogenization efficiency and effectiveness for different types of samples and applications.
Adapters:These interchangeable sample holders accommodate different sizes of tubes, plates, or vials. They are important for optimizing sample volume and processing conditions for a specific application. Adapters are available for 2 mL, 4.5 mL, 15 mL, and 50 mL tubes. Adapters also can be equipped with cryogenic cooling trays for temperature sensitive samples or constructed of metal for added durability and resistance to heat, chemicals and other harsh conditions, making them suitable for more stringent cleaning methods (autoclave, chemical sterilization, etc.).
DNA and RNA isolation kits: These kits are specialized for extracting and purifying high-quality nucleic acids from a variety of sample types, making them an important accessory for researchers in the fields of genomics and transcriptomics.
Q: What are the advantages of MP Biomedicals FastPrep homogenizers?
A: In addition to their ability to process multiple sample types at once with very thorough homogenization and high reproducibility, while maintaining the integrity of sample nucleic acids and proteins, there are several additional advantages of FastPrep homogenizers compared to similar instruments from other companies. Some of these advantages include:
Speed and efficiency: FastPrep homogenizers are designed to quickly and efficiently homogenize a wide range of sample types, including tough or difficult samples. With speeds of up to 10 m/s and multiple adapters and lysing matrices to choose from, FastPrep homogenizers can save researchers valuable time and effort.
Versatility: FastPrep homogenizers are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications, including DNA, RNA, and protein extraction, as well as microbiological and environmental sample preparation. With a range of adapters and lysing matrices available, researchers can customize their homogenization conditions and workflow to suit their specific needs.
Quality and reliability: MP Biomedicals is a well-established and reputable manufacturer of scientific instruments and reagents, and the FastPrep homogenizers are known for their quality and reliability. FastPrep homogenizers are constructed with durable materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in laboratory settings.
Compatibility: FastPrep homogenizers are compatible with a wide range of sample tubes and plates, allowing researchers to use their existing laboratory equipment with the homogenizer. This compatibility can save researchers money and resources compared to purchasing specialized equipment for each sample type.
Customer support: MP Biomedicals provides excellent customer support for their FastPrep homogenizers, including technical support, maintenance services, and training resources. This support can help researchers optimize their homogenization protocols and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Overall, the FastPrep homogenizers from MP Biomedicals offer several advantages over similar instruments from other companies, including speed and efficiency, versatility, quality and reliability, compatibility, and customer support.
Q: What comes standard with a FastPrep-24 instrument?
A: The FastPrep-24 instrument comes standard with 24 x 2 mL tube adapters. Additional adapters are available that hold more samples, maintain cool sample temperature, hold larger sample volumes, and resist harsh cleaning methods (autoclave, chemicals).
Q: What type of samples can be homogenized by a FastPrep Instrument?
A: Our FastPrep instruments are designed to disrupt a wide range of biological samples, including diverse types of animal tissues (hard, soft, fibrous), plant tissues (leaves, flowers, stems, seeds, wood, etc.), insects, bacteria, yeast, fungi, spores, soil, feces, wastewater, and other environmental samples. They can also be used for extracting nucleic acids, metabolites, or small molecules from industrial samples (building materials and plastics), food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. FastPrep systems can accommodate both ambient and frozen samples.
Operation
Q: Do I need to balance the tubes when using a FastPrep instrument?
A: No, you do not need to balance the tubes on adapters when using a FastPrep instrument. The FastPrep is not a centrifuge. However, if you do not fill the tube holders completely, it is important to avoid having all your tubes in one location. Place your tubes evenly over all the holes in your adapter. To ensure better stability for the top parts of the adapters, it is recommended that the adapter rests on more than two points. We recommend using these with a minimum of 4 tubes and using empty tubes if necessary.
Q: Can I use tubes other than the FastPrep Lysing Matrix tubes with my FastPrep instrument?
A: We highly recommend using MP Bio lysing matrix tubes with your FastPrep instrument. MP Bio has tested a variety of tubes from other suppliers and found that they either did not fit the FastPrep instrument properly or were damaged by the vigorous shaking necessary for grinding. MP Bio’s consumable products are the best available for use with the FastPrep instruments.
Q: Can I store my FastPrep instrument in a cold room at 4 °C for an extended period?
A: Yes, you can store your FastPrep instrument in a cold room at 4 °C for extended periods of time, as the operating temperature range for these instruments is 2 – 48 °C. However, it is important to note that the FastPrep instrument was built to be used at room temperature, and there is a risk of condensed water negatively affecting the motor oil.
Q: How can I convert from the m/s measurement used by FastPrep to rpm measurements used by other bead beating systems?
A: Other bead beating systems use rpm, which refers to rotations per minute. However, FastPrep instruments use a tridimensional motion instead of a rotating motion. The m/s measurement used by FastPrep refers to the distance traveled by the sample or adapter bottom during one second. To convert from rpm to m/s, see the below table.
| m/s | RPM Conversion |
| 4 | 3920 - 3970 |
| 5 | 4070 - 4120 |
| 6 | 4290 - 4340 |
| 7 | 4560 - 4610 |
| 8 | 4720 - 4770 |
| 9 | 4970 - 5020 |
| 10 | 5200 - 5250 |
Please note that this conversion depends on the adapter used and the distance from tubes to the axis of the FastPrep.
Q: How does the Cam Lock work?
A: The Cam Lock is a quick-release mechanism used for securing the adapter. Turn it clockwise until the adapter secures down the vials.
Q: Can Cam Locks and Ratchet Nuts be used interchangeably with the FastPrep-24 5G instrument?
A: Yes, Cam Locks and Ratchet Nuts can be used interchangeably with the FastPrep-24 5G instrument, but not the Classic. However, please note that metal adapters require use of Ratchet Nuts because these adapters are stiffer and less forgiving and can damage the Cam Lock.
Q: Is there an emergency stop button on the instrument?
A: Yes, there is an emergency stop button on the instrument which cuts off power. To turn the instrument back on, turn the emergency stopper clockwise.
Sample Types
Q: Can the FastPrep System isolate virus particles from animal tissues?
A: Yes, the FastPrep System can induce lysis of viruses and animal cells with Lysing Matrix A tubes. Removing the garnet sand and using one ceramic bead in the homogenization process lyses only the animal cells, while keeping the virus protein capsid intact. To perform this, set the FastPrep instrument to a speed of 6.5 m/s for 20 seconds.
Reference: Klempa B. et al. (2005) J.Clin.Microbiol. Vol 43(6); 2756-2763.l.
Q: What is the recommended setting to homogenize skin samples successfully?
A: To homogenize skin samples successfully, use Lysing Matrix A and run the FastPrep instrument at a speed of 6.0 m/s for 4 runs of 20 seconds. Incubate samples on ice for 2 minutes between each run.
Q: Can the FastPrep-24 instrument be used on tougher tissues like bark or roots?
A: Yes, the FastPrep-24 instrument can be used on harder tissues, like bark or roots. Below is a chart showing which matrices are appropriate for tough or delicate samples.
Q: What lysing matrices would you use for different soil sample types?
A: Typical Soil Sample Recommendations:
| Sample Type | Quantity | MP Bio Lysing Matrix | FastPrep Speed | FastPrep Time |
| Soil/Rock | 50 mg | E | 5.5 | 2 x 30 sec |
| Sandy Sample | 50 mg | E | 4.0 | 4 x 30 sec |
| Litter | 50 mg | E | 5.5 | 40 sec |
| Brunisol - Dark Gray Luvisol | 500 mg | E | 5.5 | 2 x 30 sec |
| Soil from Grassland | 500 mg | E | 5.5 | 2 x 30 sec |
| Rhizosphere | 500 mg | E | 6.0 | 40 sec |
| Marine Sediment | 500 mg | E | 5.5 | 2 x 40 sec |
| Asphalt-permeated Soil | 500 mg | E | 6.0 | 40 sec |
Q: How to choose Bead Beating Technology based on Sample Type and Application?
Samples vary in density, hardness, and cell size, requiring different lysing beads and homogenization approaches. For instance, gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria are sufficiently lysed with a matrix that produces low shear, medium impaction, while bone samples may require a matrix that has high shear, high impaction. Additionally, the specific application or target molecule to be isolated (e.g., DNA, RNA, protein, etc.) could dictate what lysing beads are appropriate or risky, as some molecules' integrity is more vulnerable than others.
Adapters
Q: Can metal adapters be autoclaved?
A: Yes, metal adapters can be autoclaved. They resist temperatures up to 450 F.
Q: Can I use a regular conical tube with the FastPrep-24 instrument?
A: Yes, you can use a regular conical tube with the FastPrep-24 instrument, but you will need to fill it with bulk Lysing Matrix beads.
Q: What mass of sample can be processed with various tube sizes on the different available adapters?
A: Tubes must contain sample, buffer and an air pocket. Sample should fill no more than 50% of the tube volume and air should comprise at least 10% of the tube volume. The following chart depicts the maximum amount of each component that a tube can contain. For example, a 2 mL tube is considered full with 1 mL sample and 0.8 mL buffer, with the remaining tube volume comprised of air.
| Adapter Tube Size | Maximum Sample Volume | Buffer Volume | Air Volume | Maximum Sample Mass | |
| Low Density (ex: Plants) | High Density (ex: soil) | ||||
| 2 mL | 1 mL | 0.8 mL | 0.2 mL | 0.2 g | 0.5 g |
| 4.5 mL | 2.25 mL | 1.8 mL | 0.45 mL | 0.5 g | 1.0 g |
| 15 mL | 7.5 mL | 6 mL | 1.5 mL | 2.0 g | 4.0 g |
| 50 mL | 25 mL | 20 mL | 5.0 mL | 7.0 g | 10.0 g |
Maintenance
Q: What should I do if I need preventative maintenance on my FastPrep-24 instrument?
A: If you need preventative maintenance on your FastPrep-24 instrument, maintenance will be covered, but return shipping will not be covered. Instrument repair costs are the responsibility of the customer, unless covered under an initial or extended warranty.
Q: When should I use the spare springs that came with my new FastPrep-24?
A: You should use the spare springs that came with your new FastPrep-24 if the original springs break. Each instrument is equipped with two springs, and we include spare springs to prevent delays that could be caused by a broken spring. We recommend that users change each spring every two years, depending on the frequency and intensity of instrument use. The procedure for replacing a spring can be found in the user manual.
Troubleshooting
Q: There was a power outage during a run with my FastPrep-24 5G, and I need to get my samples back as soon as possible. How do I do that?
A: To open the ‘Dome’ and retrieve your samples, pull the 'Dome Release Cable' on the back plate of the device to release the 'Dome Latch'.
Q: My FastPrep-24 Classic or FastPrep-24 5G is powered and turned on, but there is nothing on the display. What should I do?
A: Your FastPrep-24 Classic or FastPrep-24 5G is shipped with the ‘emergency stop’ engaged for safety purposes and will not run until the emergency stop is disengaged. Disengage the ‘emergency stop’ by turning it clockwise until it pops out.
Q: Why did my tubes leak while using the FastPrep instrument?
A: Tubes may leak if they are run at speeds higher than recommended by the FastPrep instrument, which can cause heavy ceramic spheres and cylinders to crack or weaken the tubes, especially the tube bottoms, leading to tube breakage when spun. If you are working with samples that are difficult to lyse, run the FastPrep instrument at the highest recommended speed for 20-30 seconds, place the tubes in an ice bath to cool, and then process the samples again in the FastPrep instrument. This can be repeated until lysis is complete.
Tubes may also leak if there is less than 0.5 mL of empty space inside the tube. During mechanical lysis, the temperature inside the tube rises, increasing the pressure, which can lead to tube failure.