The NanoDrop Spectrophotometer from NanoDrop Technologies is designed for measuring nucleic acid concentrations in sample volumes of one microliter. The key to this advanced spectrophotometer is its unique sample retention technology that overcomes the need for cuvettes when taking measurements. This is accomplished by placing the sample directly on top of the detection surface and using the surface tension to create a column between the ends of optical fibers. Thus the measurement optical path is formed. The sensitivity range for DNA detection is between 2 and 3700 ng/ul. The spectral range of the device is 220 to 750nm and it is possible to scan all of the wavelengths. A single measurement cycle takes only 10 sec. The instrument is driven by a PC, which allows you to archive a large number of measurements.
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Before buying the NanoDrop spectrophotometer, we had been used to using cuvettes and all the handling related to them. But the simplicity of using the NanoDrop for measuring RNA and DNA is astonishing. A one microliter sample volume translates into a tremendous probe savings- this is especially important in our work where we use RNA isolated from tissue biopsies, thus making each nanogram of RNA precious. Also, because the sample can be removed from the measurement surface simply by wiping the drop away, it’s possible to analyze a large number of samples in a comparatively short period of time. Another useful feature of the NanoDrop is the ability to measure CyDye incorporation into microarray probes. Using the NanoDrop to check probe quality is now a standard procedure in our lab.
Unlike other small spectrophotometers, the NanoDrop is able to scan samples throughout the 220-750nm range. This is a nice feature since it can provide important analytical information (such as checking the efficiency of dye incorporation). As for handling issues, I would recommend using a 2 ul pipette instead of 10 ul one, since delivering precisely one microliter of sample is crucial for an accurate measurement.
For some users, the need for connecting the NanoDrop to a PC could be considered a disadvantage. This is primarily because of the space requirements for setting up the whole system. In my opinion, however, the possibility to archive the measurements, in graphical form, compensates for this drawback. We have occasionally encountered a strange error message while taking a measurement, however, we found that restarting the computer usually takes care of the problem.
Taken together, the NanoDrop is a robust and state-of-the-art device for DNA and RNA concentration measurements. For labs with a high demand for sample analysis, this instrument is a cost-effective solution which will pay for itself in a very short period of time.
Michal Janitz, M.D.
Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics
Berlin, Germany
Update: This version of the Thermo Fisher Scientific NanoDrop™ has been replaced by a newer model, NanoDrop™ OneC. Explore more Small Volume Spectrophotometers here.