Do samples require pretreatment before loading onto the QIAsymphony SP for DNA extraction?

Yes. Samples have to be completely lysed and homogenized prior to automated processing on the QIAsymphony SP platform using QIAsymphony DNA Kits.

Samples are lysed by Proteinase K digestion in lysis buffers optimized for tissue, cultured cells, and bacteria, respectively. For lysis of gram-positive bacteria, lysozyme is used in addition to Proteinase K. Lysed samples are homogenized by pipetting up and down, and insoluble material is removed by centrifugation (see the QIAsymphony DNA Handbook for details).