Essential Attributes Identified in the Design of a Laboratory Information Management System for a High Throughput siRNA Screening Laboratory

Geoffrey      Grandjean; Ryan      Graham; Geoffrey      Bartholomeusz

doi:10.2174/138620711796957152

Abstract

In recent years high throughput screening operations have become a critical application in functional and translational research. Although a seemingly unmanageable amount of data is generated by these high-throughput, largescale techniques, through careful planning, an effective Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) can be developed and implemented in order to streamline all phases of a workflow. Just as important as data mining and analysis procedures at the end of complex processes is the tracking of individual steps of applications that generate such data. Ultimately, the use of a customized LIMS will enable users to extract meaningful results from large datasets while trusting the robustness of their assays. To illustrate the design of a custom LIMS, this practical example is provided to highlight the important aspects of the design of a LIMS to effectively modulate all aspects of an siRNA screening service. This system incorporates inventory management, control of workflow, data handling and interaction with investigators, statisticians and administrators. All these modules are regulated in a synchronous manner within the LIMS.

Keywords: Workflow, LIMS, high throughput screening, siRNA, cell line, human genome libraries, transfection reagents, Core Technician, threshold