Shimadzu Unveils the New Microchip Electrophoresis System MultiNA II MCE-301

In March 2026, Shimadzu launched the MultiNA II MCE-301 microchip electrophoresis system. This innovative system automates the entire electrophoresis process, which traditionally requires more than two hours for manual execution, encompassing gel creation, reagent dispensing, sample introduction, separation, dyeing, and equipment cleaning. This advancement significantly enhances the efficiency of genetic analysis operations.

As the successor to the MultiNA I MCE-202, the MultiNA II MCE-301 performs calculations to assess the deterioration state of RNA while enabling high-sensitivity detection through the use of a specialized reagent kit. The device is equipped with a sample addition and dilution function, ensuring adherence to the principles of "high sensitivity and high precision, fully automatic analysis of multiple samples." The system is marketed to universities, research institutions, contract testing companies, and food manufacturers engaged in fields related to medicine, agriculture, pharmacology, science, and engineering.

Among the key features of the new MultiNA II MCE-301 are the following:

Enhanced Workflow through Automation  

The system allows for a fully automatic analysis to be initiated by simply registering samples, setting reagents, and pressing the start button. The time required to commence the analysis is reduced to just ten minutes. For the analysis of highly concentrated samples, the dilution step, which was previously performed manually, has been automated, thereby improving overall workflow efficiency.

Advanced Analysis and Calculation 

An advanced analysis function enables the calculation of the RNA Integrity Index (RII) to assess the deterioration state of RNA, allowing for the quantitative evaluation of RNA sample quality. Furthermore, a newly integrated "fingerprinting function" automates the determination of the presence or absence of target DNA, while a "grouping analysis function" categorizes samples according to analytical results. The sensitivity for DNA analysis has been notably enhanced from 200pg/μL in traditional models to 5pg/μL using a new, separately sold reagent kit.

Significant Reductions in Electricity Consumption

Significant reductions in electricity consumption of up to 70% and net water usage of 60% have been achieved compared to previous models. Power consumption and pure water consumption have both been reduced to this level, resulting in minimized environmental impact through reduced liquid waste. Equipment dimensions have been compacted to 85% of their original size, with a height reduction of 73%, facilitating installation on an experimental table. 

Impact on the Electrophoresis Market

The global electrophoresis market size is calculated at USD 2.60 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from USD 2.74 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 4,37 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 5.33% from 2026 to 2035.

According to Precedence Research, continuous innovations and technological advancements in electrophoresis techniques contribute significantly to market growth. The development of more efficient and precise electrophoresis systems enhances the capabilities of researchers and drives adoption.
A microchip electrophoresis system is a system in which DNA/RNA is separated by size (strand length) by electrophoresis using a quartz substrate in which a microfluidic path and electrode pattern are formed. It is used for confirmation of mutations in genome editing, quality control of next-generation sequencing (NGS) samples, and genotyping, as well as for detection of pathogens and allergic substances, in addition to basic research.

Impact on the Genome Editing Market

The global genome editing market size is estimated at USD 10.91 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from USD 12.76 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 48.19 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 16.01% from 2026 to 2035.

According to Precedence Research, the rising prevalence of rare diseases worldwide has boosted the market growth. The growing investments from public and private sector entities for developing the genome editing industries also boost the market growth. The rise in the number of genetic diseases is likely to impact the market growth positively. The growing development in DNA editing technologies also propels the market growth to some extent.

The MultiNA II MCE-301 enhances laboratory sustainability, reducing power consumption by 70% and pure water usage by 60% compared with earlier models. MultiNA II is a high-efficiency, environmentally conscious solution for modern genetic analysis.

Shimadzu Corporation

Shimadzu Corporation is a Japanese public KK company, manufacturing precision instruments, measuring instruments, and medical equipment, based in Kyoto, Japan. Shimadzu is recognized worldwide for excellence in Analytical & Measuring Instruments. Our instruments in Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Spectroscopy, Testing, and Environmental Monitoring help industries and researchers make discoveries, improve processes, and innovate with confidence.