Bio Break: The Role of Pipettes in Lab Workflows

Resources

Bio Break: The Role of Pipettes in Lab Workflows

In this episode of Bio Break, Nick and Joris dive into a common challenge faced by researchers and product developers: the use of pipettes in laboratory workflows and the need for alternatives in non-laboratory environments. From the precision of the trusty P200 pipette to innovative solutions like microfluidics, this discussion highlights the strengths and limitations of fluid handling tools in research and beyond.

Nick kicks things off by showcasing his favorite instrument, the P200 pipette. Renowned for its precision and ease of use, the pipette is a cornerstone in basic research, capable of transferring fluids in the range of 1–200 microliters. With its ergonomic design and disposable tips, it ensures accuracy and contamination-free sample handling, making it indispensable for laboratory scientists. However, as Joris points out, transitioning workflows out of the lab introduces unique challenges.

The conversation shifts to why developers and clients often seek alternatives to pipettes. For instance, in clinical or point-of-care settings, pipettes may not be practical due to operator inexperience or the need to handle viscous solutions like honey or biological samples. Nick illustrates this challenge with a viscosity comparison, explaining how materials like honey, with viscosity 1,000 times that of water, are difficult to handle using traditional pipettes.

Joris introduces innovative alternatives like microfluidics, a precise and controlled method for transporting small liquid volumes, and off-the-shelf transfer pipettes, which can be cost-effective but may lack the precision required for critical applications. These solutions showcase the importance of adapting workflows to specific needs, whether it’s improving accuracy, handling viscous fluids, or operating in non-lab environments.

Whether you’re a researcher, engineer, or product developer, this episode provides valuable insights into optimizing fluid handling for various scenarios. Learn about the trade-offs of replacing pipettes and how cutting-edge tools can transform workflows.

The Role of Pipettes in Lab Workflows

Jet Injector Drug Delivery - A gloved hand holds a syringe angled upward on a white background. A red dashed arrow curves upward from the syringe needle, pointing to empty space. Large black text on the left reads “Outdated?” suggesting a question about the relevance or currency of syringe-based technology.

Jet Injector Drug Delivery: Promise and Pitfalls

Nick and Nigel dive into the world of jet injector drug delivery. This needle-free method, made popular in science fiction and real-world vaccines, is still used today.

Cupping therapy on a person's back with six transparent suction cups applied to the skin. A bold text reads 'This is the future!' with a large red arrow pointing toward the cups. The background is minimal and white.

Injection Pain Reduction with Suction: A Simple Solution

Nick and Nigel explore a surprising approach to injection pain reduction using suction technology. What started as an unusual product order at StarFish Medical led to important insights on improving patient comfort during injections.

Person applying a white microneedle patch to their upper arm, with a red arrow pointing to the patch and a close-up of the microneedles on the right. Text reads “Painless!” to highlight the pain-free nature of the patch.

Why Microneedles Still Matter in Drug Delivery

Nigel and Nick explore microneedle drug delivery—a growing field in medtech that aims to improve patient comfort and treatment compliance. While the term “microneedles” may sound futuristic, this technology has been around for years.

Illustration of suppository drug delivery method. Rectangular blister pack of suppositories, which are making a comeback in drug delivery, on a blue background with one suppository placed outside the packaging. Large bold text reads 'What a comeback!' with a red arrow pointing toward the suppositories, suggesting renewed interest or relevance.

Suppository Drug Delivery Is Making a Comeback

Nick and Nigel discuss an often-overlooked but increasingly relevant form of drug delivery: suppositories. While typically considered old-fashioned, suppositories are experiencing a resurgence in modern MedTech thanks to their versatility, systemic absorption benefits, and emerging formulation technologies.