Dear EvolDir Folks,

I received just a few responses to my questions about cost-saving tips
for sequencing with an ABI 3100 (see original post at bottom). Here are
the main points:

* It is possible to buy generic polymer from MCLab (www.mclab.com), who
  produces their own versions of POP4-7.
* It is possible to get a service contract from the third party company
  SeqGen (www.seqgen.net).
* Labs seem to commonly use capillaries for 600-700 runs.
* One person suggested that the life an array can be extended to 1000
  runs by not cleaning the polymer blocks unless the array is being
  changed. The idea is that limiting the array's exposure to water
  particles helps it last longer.
* I did not hear from anyone using POP7 with an ABI 3100.

Thanks for the responses,
-Jeff

ORIGINAL POST:
Our department has an ABI 3100 sequencer.  This machine uses a 16
capillary array, the older syringe system, and POP6 polymer.  We are
currently in a situation where most labs send sequences out to core
facilities, but some people still use the machine for small batches
of samples.  Therefore, we're exploring ways to cost effectively run
the machine given the limited throughput and increases in ABI pricing.
I assume that many labs are in a similar situation, and I was looking
for some input on how people are dealing with common issues:

Polymer
-ABI is now only selling POP6 in 7 mL aliquots (list price: $468). Does
anyone order POP6 from a different distributor at a better price?

-POP7 can be bought in bulk, and although it is thinner it seems that
people have used it in a 3100 (see link below). I'm curious to hear
about experiences with this, particularly regarding syringe leakage.
http://www.biotechniques.com/multimedia/archive/00036/BTN_A_04366BM01_-
O_36600a.pdf

Capillary arrays and regeneration:
We currently use The Gel Company's array regeneration service ($200),
usually sending arrays out every 6 months or 200 runs. I'd be interested
in hearing about experiences with number of runs between regenerations,
lifetime of arrays, other companies, or doing this yourself.

Any other general helpful tips would be appreciated. I will compile
responses and send back to the list. Thanks for any information,

dacostaj@bu.edu