Shimadzu Launches MultiNA II DNA/RNA Analysis System

Shimadzu Scientific Instruments has introduced the MultiNA II MCE-301 Microchip Electrophoresis System for DNA and RNA size analysis across NGS, genome editing and RNA-based workflows. Announced on 13 October 2026, the system is compatible with Shimadzu’s newly released DNA-HS12000 high-sensitivity detection kit and integrates with Shimadzu’s LNP and AAV characterisation workflow, sharpening competitive positioning across the growing biopharma nucleic acid QC category.

The MultiNA II can calculate RNA Integrity Index (RII) values with 0.95+ correlation to non-Shimadzu platforms, supports DNA fingerprinting with automated fragment detection, and enables grouping and molar concentration ratio analysis for genome-edited sample screening via heteroduplex DNA electrophoresis. Smear analysis functionality combined with the high-sensitivity kit enables evaluation of NGS library concentrations down to 5 pg/µL. The platform integrates with Shimadzu’s Centrifugal Field-Flow Fractionation (CF3) system for LNP and AAV size characterisation. Compared with previous models, the system consumes 30% less power, has a 27% smaller footprint and requires 40% less purified water.

The platform targets private and commercial testing laboratories, NGS specialists, food authentication and genome editing laboratories, with workflow improvements including automated sample dilution with purified water, mid-run pausing to add up to 120 samples, a 96-sample removable rack and simultaneous loading of two reagent kit types. The launch intensifies competitive pressure across the microchip and capillary electrophoresis category, placing Shimadzu in direct competition with Agilent Technologies (Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Fragment Analyzer), Bio-Rad Laboratories (Experion), Revvity (LabChip, formerly PerkinElmer) and BiOptic (Qsep). The CF3 integration also challenges LNP/AAV characterisation specialists Postnova Analytics, Waters/Wyatt Technology and Malvern Panalytical.

The commercial signal is a maturing nucleic acid QC and library preparation category where NGS, genome editing and RNA-based therapeutics manufacturing drive structural demand for microchip electrophoresis platforms. LNP/AAV integration extends relevance into gene therapy manufacturing. Expect Agilent Technologies, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Revvity, BiOptic, Postnova Analytics, Waters/Wyatt Technology and Malvern Panalytical to sharpen their nucleic acid analysis positioning through 2027.

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