RNA Expression Profiling at MGI

The right workflow matters as much as the price per sample.

Choose the right workflow for the question

MGI offers three RNA expression workflows matched to sample scale, sample quality, sequencing depth and downstream analysis needs. BRB seq provides a lower cost option for survey level profiling across larger sample sets. Bulk RNA Seq Select and Bulk RNA Seq Premium provide project managed bulk RNA seq options when researchers need greater depth, support or sample flexibility.

  • BRB seq for survey level profiling across larger sample sets.
  • Bulk RNA Seq Select for straightforward projects with good quality samples.
  • Bulk RNA Seq Premium for complex, precious, variable or higher risk samples.
RNA sequencing workflow and Illumina sequencing at MGI

RNA expression profiling options

Survey level profiling

BRB seq

$50 per sample

Cost efficient RNA profiling for larger sample sets when survey level transcriptome wide expression profiling is the right fit.

  • 48+ samples
  • 96 sample batches most cost effective
  • Up to 15M raw reads per sample, project dependent
  • 2 to 3 weeks for typical projects
Can help identify samples for deeper whole transcriptome analysis, long read whole transcriptome analysis, or single cell analysis.
Project ready samples

Bulk RNA Seq Select

$199 per sample

CRO competitive pricing for straightforward bulk RNA seq projects with good quality samples and MGI project management built in.

  • Good quality samples
  • Standard bulk RNA seq projects
  • Two QC checkpoints
  • Clean, actionable data in the format needed
A strong fit for researchers comparing low cost CRO pricing but still needing clear deliverables and guidance.
Higher touch support

Bulk RNA Seq Premium

Around $250 per sample

A higher touch workflow for studies where sample quality, sample value, project complexity or downstream requirements justify deeper support.

  • Precious or limited samples
  • Variable or degraded RNA
  • Complex study designs
  • Customized deliverables and expanded consultation
Best when the samples are difficult to replace or the cost of project failure is high.

Where traditional CRO sequencing can create hidden costs

Low advertised pricing can work for simple projects. The difference shows up when sample quality, QC results, deliverables or troubleshooting require real project support.

Traditional CRO problem

Support can be transactional

When the project needs more than sample submission and data return, the process can slow down quickly.

MGI difference

Project manager guidance is built in

MGI helps define sample needs, sequencing strategy and deliverables before the project begins.

Traditional CRO problem

QC may not tell you what to do next

A pass fail result alone can leave researchers deciding whether to rerun, replace or move forward.

MGI difference

QC is used to guide decisions

MGI helps researchers understand what QC results mean and how they affect the best path forward.

Traditional CRO problem

Deliverables may require follow up

Researchers may need additional calls, formatting requests or clarification before the data are usable.

MGI difference

Data expectations are clarified upfront

MGI works with researchers to provide clean, actionable data in the format needed for downstream analysis.

Traditional CRO problem

Issues can shift work back to the researcher

Low output, demultiplexing, rework or data handling problems can create hidden downstream effort.

MGI difference

Experienced support reduces avoidable friction

MGI projects are supported by a team averaging 15 years of experience, helping researchers avoid costly mistakes.