Next Generation Sequencing

Since the completion of the Human Genome Project, the field of sequencing has been greatly developed. With the advent of NGS and the reduction of sequencing costs, NGS has become the basis for many whole-genome analyses in addition to examining genetic changes. Compared with previous DNA sequencing methods, NGS is a highly scalable method, which is usually achieved by fragmenting the genome into small fragments, and then randomly sampling these fragments to construct a complete genome library. These assays enable researchers to obtain information that helps identify biomarkers for diagnostic purposes, understand disease progression or pathways, and stratify patients for targeted precision medical treatment.

By providing faster results and lower costs, while minimizing human error and reducing the risk of contamination, microfluidic technology leads the future of NGS. Microfluidic devices can help achieve accurate, high-throughput, and inexpensive next-generation sequencing by standardizing and/or automating important parts of the sequencing process (from sample collection and preparation to the final reading of the gene sequence).

Microfluidic Platform for Next-Generation Sequencing

Recently, a droplet-based open microfluidic system based on the principle of DNA phase separation and purification was reported, as shown in Figure 1. It is connected to 4 computer-controlled injection/extraction syringe pumps, each with two syringes. The platform is able to perform DNA end repair and ligation schemes involving multiple steps, using as little as 10 pg of DNA each time to generate 8 sequencing libraries at the same time.

Figure.1 Overview of the microfluidic library preparation system. (a) Setup including computer-controlled syringe pumps connected to a microfluidic chip on a stage heater; (b) Schematic of the microfluidic device with 8 channels; (c) Picture of the PDMS/glass device. (Murphy T. W, et al. 2020)

This platform has shown great advantages in preparing high-quality low-input ChIP-seq libraries. The automation function it provides can greatly reduce labor and testing time, significantly reduce reagent consumption (10 times reduction), and has medium to high throughput, suitable for rapid processing in a single laboratory.

What Can Alfa Chemistry Do for You?

We work with customers to design, develop and manufacture microfluidic devices for next-generation sequencing, which can put the powerful functions of the entire laboratory in your palm.

• We have standardized operating laboratories and high-throughput sequencing technology platforms.
• We have a professional bioinformatics team that can provide partners with comprehensive bioinformatics analysis services and technical support.
• Experienced technicians can provide solutions and analyze experimental results according to your requirements. The experiment period is short and the quality is reliable.

The products we help create are revolutionizing medicine, driving new discoveries, and changing the world. These devices may be small, but the impact is great.

Reference

• Murphy T. W, et al. (2020). Microfluidic Platform for Next-Generation Sequencing Library Preparation with Low-Input Samples. Analytical Chemistry. 92(3): 2519-2526.

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