GeneXpert
The GeneXpert® is a cartridge based sample preparation and real-time PCR analysis system. The GeneXpert® uses disposable cartridges to move a sample through the preparation and analysis steps. DNA is extracted from the sample in a cell lysing step (sonication), mixed with the appropriate reagents, then analyzed by PCR. Multiple models are available with 1, 2, 4, 16, 48 or 80 module configurations for increased sample throughput.
Availability: Commercially Available
| Manufacturer |
| Cepheid |
| Product Name |
| GeneXpert |
| Detection Category |
| Biological |
| Detection Principle |
| Molecular; Molecular Spectroscopy; |
| Detection Method |
| Polymerase Chain Reaction; Fluorescence ; |
| Application |
| Laboratory Analysis; |
| Equipment Type |
| Instrument |
| Product Synopsis |
| The GeneXpert® is a cartridge based sample preparation and real-time PCR analysis system. The GeneXpert® uses disposable cartridges to move a sample through the preparation and analysis steps. DNA is extracted from the sample in a cell lysing step (sonication), mixed with the appropriate reagents, then analyzed by PCR. Multiple models are available with 1, 2, 4, 16, 48 or 80 module configurations for increased sample throughput. |
| Availability |
| Commercially Available |
| Technology Readiness Level (TRL) |
| 9 |
| User Feedback Sources |
| Indifferent/No user feedback |
| Supporting Documentation |
| Docs: Cepheid - GeneXpert.pdf; |
| Dimensions |
| GX-I: 4.00 x 12.00 x 11.70 in (102 x 305 x 298 mm) GX-II: 6.35 x 12.00 x 11.70 in (162 x 305 x 298 mm) GX-IV: 11.00 x 12.00 x 11.70 (280 x 305 x 298 mm) GX-XVI: 22.75 x 25.80 x 13.25 (578 x 656 x 337 mm) |
| Weight |
| <30 lbs.; GXI: 18 lbs. (8.2 kg)\ for 1 module instrument GXIV: 26 lbs. (11.8 kg) for 4 module instrument |
| Power Requirements |
| AC/DC Line Power; 100 to 240 V AC, 50 to 60 Hz, 1.9 to 0.95 A for GXIV and 1.5 to 7.5A for GXI |
| Transportability |
| Benchtop/Fixed; Small Footprint |
| Operating Conditions |
| 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F) |
| Calibration Schedule |
| Calibration after 2,000 runs |
| Suggested Routine Maintenance |
| Calibration after 2,000 runs |
| Data Analysis Support Equipment |
| PC |
| Communications Interface |
| USB |
| Shelf Life |
| >5 years |
| Unit Cost |
| $24,000 to $79,200 |
| Maintenance Cost |
| $42 per cartridge |
| Tested For Biological Agents |
| B. anthracis (Anthrax), Ebola, Nucleic acids |
| Other Biological Targets |
| MRSA, nurovirus, Influenza, Entero virus, Strep A SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) |
| Sample Introduction |
| Liquid; Solid |
| Known Interferents/Inhibitors |
| DNA extraction performed in cartridge usually removes PCR interfering substances but test could be susceptible to failure due to clogging of pre-filter by particulates. In an independent laboratory study, the failure rate was as high as 1 in 3 with approximately 200 highly particulate samples. |
| Start Up Time (From Cold Start To Sample Ready) |
| < 1 minute |
| Response Time (Sample Application To Output) |
| >15 minutes; > 25 minutes |
| Alarm Capability |
| Yes |
| Software Control |
| PC |
| Training Required |
| <1 week training |
| Training Available |
| Although expensive to use at $50/run, the GeneXpert requires very little training to operate, unlike most real-time PCR systems. The sample is not pre-filtered, so dirty samples can cause cartridge failure. Samples containing PCR inhibitors may also impede performance. Due to cartridge variability, the GeneXpert is not a quantitative system. |
| Warranties |
| 1 year. A second year extended warranty is available for purchase for $10,000 |
