Laboratory automation impacts nearly all aspects of high throughput RNAi
screens. It is particularly relevant when considering library format and storage, and also
when planning high throughput transfection protocols. In situations where libraries are
stored as screening copies that are used for just-in-time dispensing, automation can be
utilized as a tool to accommodate diverse assay and cell types and can enable forward or
reverse transfections into a variety of different microplates. Automation has the ability
to increase the feasibility and decrease consumable costs for assays that require a large
number of replicates. It is also an important tool when considering more complex
assays, such as those that utilize non-standard plate types or electroporation, as
automation increases reliability and can improve assay performance. This chapter
highlights important considerations for library formatting and ways in which laboratory
automation can be implemented to facilitate RNAi high throughput screening.
Keywords: HTS, laboratory automation, library format, RNAi, robotics, siRNA
transfection.
