The new cloud-based service enables quick access to scientific information — including key restriction enzyme details — for molecular biologists in the lab.
Ipswich, MA (May 3rd, 2019) — Imagine you’re at the bench performing a restriction enzyme digest, and you need information about an enzyme and don’t want to have to take your gloves off. myNEB, an Alexa cloud-based voice service, released today by New England Biolabs (NEB®), has the answers you need.
“Alexa, tell me about BsaI.” myNEB will respond by reminding you that there is an improved version of this Type IIS enzyme, the supplied buffer, how it can be used in Golden Gate assembly, heat inactivation information, methylation sensitivity and cut site.
This first of its kind, voice-activated digital lab assistant will help researchers and technicians with basic reagent-based calculations and scientific information, while they are engaged in lab work.
“We’re excited to introduce Alexa into the lab,” said Penny Devoe, Associate Director, Portfolio Management, DNA Cloning at NEB. “When it comes to seeking information to help with molecular biology experiments, we believe that voice activation could play a key role in the future. Scientists digest information in different ways. Going to the website isn’t always the preferred method. Some people may just want to ask a digital device. Alexa in-home use is gaining in popularity, so it is only natural that it will eventually move to the laboratory too.”
myNEB features include:
- Quick tips for cloning
- Ability to make experimental calculations and conversions (i.e., ligation, dilution, molarity)
- Access to a lab timer
- Detailed information about restriction enzymes, including: heat inactivation, methylation sensitivity, activity in different buffers, concentration, cut site, catalog number, summary of highlights, etc.
- Access to the NEB “Lessons from Lab & Life” podcast library for listening while working at the bench
myNEB is already impacting researchers, who were early testers of the device, around the country:
“myNEB is a unique instrument for basic laboratory calculations and useful information,” said Ugochukwu Anieto, Instructional Assistant Professor of Biology at Texas A&M University Higher Education Center. “It will make science much more interesting and more efficient.”
myNEB is constantly learning, so the more you use it, the more it will understand your lab workflow needs. Additionally, NEB has provided a way for scientists to submit questions that they may want to have answered.
For more information, as well as detailed instructions on how to use the voice-activated technology, visit www.neb.com/myneb or view or short video demo.
About New England Biolabs
Established in the mid 1970’s, New England Biolabs, Inc. (NEB) is the industry leader in the discovery and production of enzymes for molecular biology applications and now offers the largest selection of recombinant and native enzymes for genomic research. NEB continues to expand its product offerings into areas related to PCR, gene expression, sample preparation for next generation sequencing, synthetic biology, glycobiology, epigenetics and RNA analysis. Additionally, NEB is focused on strengthening alliances that enable new technologies to reach key market sectors, including molecular diagnostics development. New England Biolabs is a privately held company, headquartered in Ipswich, MA, and has extensive worldwide distribution through a network of exclusive distributors, agents and seven subsidiaries located in Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore and the UK. For more information about New England Biolabs visit www.neb.com.
NEB® and NEW ENGLAND BIOLABS® are registered trademarks of New England Biolabs, Inc.
MYNEB™ is a trademark of New England Biolabs, Inc.
Contact information:
Deana D. Martin, Ph.D.
Associate Director, Marketing Communications
New England Biolabs
240 County Road Ipswich, MA 01938
Tel: 978-380-7464
Email: martin@neb.com
5/6/2019