Protein Biomarker Discovery Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is the turnaround time for service?
Our standard turnaround time is 4-6 weeks; however, turnaround times may depend on incoming sample type, volume, and assay type.
Sample Preparation
How much sample volume is required?
Only 1-10 µL is necessary for input into the system; however, we suggest 40 µl per sample for both Olink Explore and Olink Target 96/48 to account for shipping, evaporation, and the possibility of needing to rerun the sample.
Is there a minimum number of samples?
Olink is a high-throughput application, so we ask that customers provide enough samples to fill a plate (minimum 88 samples for Target 96 and 40 samples for Target 48). We can make exceptions; however, customers should think about population power to gain significant statistics.
Is it possible to run FFPE samples?
No, not currently. FFPE degrades proteins and is not compatible with the Olink system.
What is the optimal starting concentration for cell and tissue lysates?
We recommend a range from 0.5 µg/µL – 1.0 µg/µL of total protein concentration in tissue and cell lysates. To determine the optimal protein concentration for the specific matrix, it is recommended to run samples in at least two different concentrations. It is important that all samples that are to be analyzed together have the same starting concentration. For more information and guidelines, please contact our support team.
What sample types can be used with Olink?
Olink Explore is fully validated for human plasma and serum samples. Other sample types, for example CSF, have been shown to be compatible with the technology and they are listed in the sample submission guidelines. Further information and guidelines can be provided by our support team.
Is sample dilution necessary before running the assay?
Each Olink Target panel is optimized for the expected physiological and pathological ranges found in plasma and serum for the 92 biomarker assays included. A few of our panels are designed to be run diluted (from 1:10 up to 1:2025) to fit the physiological ranges within the measurable ranges of our assays. These dilutions are a part of the assay and no pre-dilution is necessary. Dilutions are set with plasma and serum in mind, so when running other sample matrices, these dilutions may need adjustment depending on the expected protein concentrations in the specific matrix.
For tissue or cell lysate, we recommend a range from 0.5 – 1.0 µg/µL of total protein concentration.
Our current list of diluted panels is as follows:
- Cardiometabolic: 1:2025
- CVD III: 1:100
- Development: 1:100
- Metabolism: 1:10
To determine the optimal protein concentration for the specific matrix, it is recommended to run samples in at least two different concentrations. It is important that all samples that are to be analyzed together have the same starting concentration. For more information and guidelines, please contact our support team.
Data Analysis & Delivery
How will data be delivered?
The standard Olink Target 48/96 report format is an Excel spreadsheet with NpX (normalized expression data), while Target 48 provides data in pg/ml. Example files can be found here. Olink Explore data is provided by sFTP or your own cloud service.
Order & Processing
How do I request a quote?
Submit an inquiry form detailing your project. Our NGS team will review your inquiry, follow up with a quote, and guide you through the next steps.
How do I confirm a quote?
For a quick tutorial, watch the video below.
How do I submit the Azenta Sample Submission Form to provide detailed information about my samples?
Please watch the video below for a brief tutorial on how to submit your sample submission form.
How can I monitor the progress of my project?
The status of your order, including an estimated date of delivery, can be viewed anytime through your Azenta account. Visit the Order Summary page of your project to find the current order status. Watch the video below for a brief tutorial.
How long does Azenta hold samples?
We hold samples for 1 year after project completion. Please contact us if you would like samples retained for a longer period or shipped back to you.