Patent ID: 8921539

Claim:
An automated method for capturing plasmid DNA from an unclarified lysate with a pipette tip column, the method comprising: a) providing a multi-well plate, wherein a plurality of wells in the multi-well plate contain unclarified lysates having a sample volume, wherein each unclarified lysate is comprised of plasmid DNA, liquid and particulates; b) providing a plurality of pipette tip columns arranged in a 9 mm center-to-center format wherein each pipette tip column is comprise of i) a column body having an open upper end, ii) an open lower end, iii) an open channel between the open upper end and the open lower end, iv) a bottom frit extending across the open lower end, and v) a solid phase positioned inside the open channel and above the bottom frit; c) engaging the open upper end of the pipette tip columns with a pump, wherein the pump is a syringe pump or the head of a robotic liquid handler; d) submerging the open lower end of the pipette tip columns in the unclarified lysates; e) aspirating and expelling a portion of the unclarified lysates through the open lower end of the pipette tip columns, wherein the portion of each unclarified lysate aspirated is between 10% and 80% of the sample volume; f) aspirating and expelling a wash solution through the open lower end of the pipette tip columns; g) transferring the pipette tip columns into a custom 9 mm center-to-center block, wherein the block is comprised of channels and wherein each channel is comprised of a seal, wherein the channels completely surround each individual pipette tip column over substantially the length of the column, and whereby each individual pipette tip column is sealed within a channel; and h) applying software-controlled vacuum through the block, wherein the vacuum is applied evenly through each pipette tip column.