NEXT-GENERATION SEQUENCING
Next generation sequencing is the most efficient and cost-effective way of generating high-resolution sequence data to obtain entire genomes, compare sequences among large sets of samples, and analyze genetic variations. Our core facility offers several next-generation sequencing platforms: the Ion Torrent PGM, Ion Proton, Illumina MiSeq, and Illumina NextSeq 500 each with their own data output capabilities and quirks.
RNA SEQUENCING
RNA sequencing involves extraction of RNA from the organism by poly-A capture, converting to cDNA libraries, and then sequencing the library. It can be used to characterize novel transcripts, splicing events, or quantify transcribed genes for expression analyses against different phenotypes and environmental conditions.
Whole genome sequencing can be done de novo for novel and previously un-sequenced organisms or mapped against a reference genome to determine differences among strains or variants. Whole genome sequencing opens a myriad of opportunities for study such as marker discovery for phenotypic traits, gene discovery, and comparative genomics.
WHOLE GENOME SEQUENCING
TARGETED SEQUENCING
In targeted sequencing, selected regions of the genome are enriched prior to sequencing to achieve the high coverage necessary for calling variants such as SNPs, insertions, and deletions within an organism or population. Enrichment of the targeted sequences can be done in a variety of methods such as by PCR or hybrid capture. This sequencing strategy offers a cost-effective way of performing variation analysis because it reserves sequencing output for the target regions.
METAGENOMIC SEQUENCING
Environmental samples contain a wide variety of microorganisms, many of which are still unknown and cannot be grown in cultures. Metagenomic sequencing lets you characterize these microbes through analysis of DNA extracted from an environmental sample, then enriching and sequencing genomic markers such as the 16s ribosomal RNA gene. Metagenomics can be applied to the study of bacterial communities and microbial diversity in various environments.