Volta Labs has launched an automated DNA library preparation application for Oxford Nanopore Technologies' Ligation Sequencing Kit V14, compatible with its Callisto Sample Prep System. The protocol, developed under Oxford Nanopore's Compatible Products Programme, enables fully automated ligation-based library preparation optimised for the PromethION platform. Benchmarking studies and an independent clinical evaluation at University Medical Center Utrecht showed Callisto-prepared libraries achieved up to 120 gigabases of output on a single PromethION flow cell, with 99.66% SNV recall accuracy. The evaluation, presented at AGBT 2026, confirmed the system's integrated high molecular weight DNA extraction and library preparation support routine whole genome sequencing within ISO 15189 standards. Founded in 2018 at MIT, Volta Labs uses proprietary electrowetting technology to provide automated DNA and RNA extraction for major sequencing platforms.

Volta Labs propels AGBT 2026 with significant product launches and industry-shaping partnerships. Expanded platform integrations for Roche AXELIOS 1, new PCR-free WGS complete kit with Watchmaker, and customer data at production scale signal a turning point for automated genomics. BOSTON, February 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Volta Labs today announced a series of product launches, strategic partnerships, and customer presentations that position the company at the forefront of the next wave of genome sequencing. Through new collaborations with Roche and Watchmaker Genomics, Volta Labs is expanding the capabilities of its Callisto platform, transforming sequencing from manual workflow development into true push-button execution. Expansion across the sequencing ecosystem Roche Sequencing - AXELIOS 1 Roche introduced the development of Callisto as part of its AXELIOS 1-compatible automation solutions. Volta will aim to integrate the AXELIOS 1 SBX-D preparation workflow into the Callisto platform. Callisto already features integrated DNA extraction workflows that enable an optimized end-to-end solution. Our goal is to ensure that customers using next-generation sequencers can rely on Callisto from day one for automated, high-quality library preparation. This reflects our comprehensive commitment to making Callisto the automation layer for sequencing ecosystems. Presentation by Hartwig Medical Foundation: Advances in cfDNA whole-genome sequencing At AGBT, the Hartwig Medical Foundation presented its research on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for longitudinal patient monitoring, including therapy selection and disease surveillance, as a crucial workflow in oncology. This work utilizes Volta Labs' Callisto platform. The presentation showcased the fully automated cfDNA workflow and the successful optimization required for implementation in their high-throughput environment. Details presented included insights into workflow optimization, size selection, and operational benefits of Callisto, such as unique mixing functions that can lead to faster ligation. Hartwig's presentation emphasized the platform's role in advancing clinical whole-genome sequencing for difficult sample types.

Volta Labs announced major product launches and partnerships at AGBT 2026, positioning its Callisto platform as a universal automation solution for genomic sequencing. The company is integrating Roche's AXELIOS 1 sequencer workflows and launched the Callisto Complete Kit for DNA EF Library Prep with Watchmaker Genomics, enabling fully automated PCR-free whole genome sequencing. Hartwig Medical Foundation presented data on using Callisto for circulating-tumour DNA workflows in oncology. UMC Utrecht and Hartwig have processed thousands of patient samples using the platform over nearly a year, with UMC Utrecht now expanding its Callisto deployment laboratory-wide. The announcements signal Volta's push towards an apps-based genomics model, where pre-developed applications replace manual workflow development. CEO Udayan Umapathi said the company aims to make push-button sequencing standard across the industry.