Long Read Sequencing

GTAC@MGI has extensive experience with PacBio and Oxford Nanopore processing which allows us to maximize throughput for your project.

Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) Sequencing

As a PacBio Certified Service Provider, GTAC@MGI provides PacBio sequencing services utilizing the most recent protocols, instrumentation, and sequencing technology available. We have extensive experience with PacBio sequencing dating back over a decade when PacBio’s first sequencer in the field was installed at our center. Every iteration of sequencer (RS, RSII, Sequel, Sequel II and Revio) has been utilized at GTAC@MGI.

What types of PacBio sequencing are available?
HiFi Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

HiFi sequencing delivers whole genome sequence information with complete and accurate resolution through unbiased, single-molecule reads of up to 25 kb, a median read accuracy of >99.9% (Q30), and the ability to sequence through repeats and GC-rich regions. HiFi sequencing also allows detection of 5mC methylation at CpG sites for human and other eukaryotic samples. Our extensive experience processing HiFi WGS samples from DNA isolation through sequencing allows us to maximize insert lengths and data output per SMRT cell. We have produced first-rate sequencing data for numerous projects including our PacBio sequencing efforts for the Human Pangenome Reference Consortium.

Full Length RNA Sequencing (Iso-Seq)

Iso-Seq reads span the whole transcript, capturing even untranslated regions. With long and accurate HiFi reads you can characterize the full diversity of the transcriptome.

  • See alternative start and end sites – Detect fusion genes
  • Characterize splicing events – Identify allele specific isoforms
  • Profile expression at isoform resolution – Predict full length open read frames
Multiplexed Microbial WGS and Metagenomic Sequencing

Generate microbial reference genomes by multiplexing multiple isolates per SMRT cell or generate near complete assemblies of high-complexity metagenomic samples.

For other sequencing assays i.e. targeted, amplicon, etc please contact us to discuss project specifics.

Oxford Nanopore Sequencing

Oxford Nanopore technology (ONT) allows direct sequencing of native DNA/RNA ranging from short to ultra-long fragment lengths. The ability to sequence native DNA and RNA without the requirement for amplification, eliminates PCR bias and allows for the identification of base modifications, such as methylation, alongside nucleotide sequence. Oxford Nanopore sequencing utilizes nanopores When a molecule passes through a nanopore, the current is disrupted to produce a characteristic ‘squiggle’. The squiggle is then decoded using basecalling algorithms to determine the DNA or RNA sequence in real time.

GTAC@MGI offers Oxford Nanopore services from DNA/RNA isolation through sequencing on either the Gridion or Promethion24 sequencer.

What types of Oxford Nanopore sequencing are available? 
Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

Generate and complete microbial, human, animal, and plant genome assemblies with long nanopore sequencing reads. The greater overlap offered by long sequencing reads enhances genome assembly by providing longer continuous, unambiguously assembled sequences, resulting in fewer contigs. Accurately resolve structural variants and repeat regions, and characterize base modifications (e.g. methylation), fusion genes, and haplotype phasing, with nanopore long reads.

RNA Sequencing

Unlike traditional RNA-Seq techniques, long nanopore RNA sequencing reads allow for accurate quantification and complete, full-length characterization of native RNA or cDNA without fragmentation or amplification — streamlining analysis and removing potential sources of bias. Direct RNA sequencing also enables the identification of base modifications alongside nucleotide sequence.

For other sequencing assays i.e. targeted, custom projects, etc please contact us to discuss project specifics.