Guide for Purchasing Sequencing: 7th Update
The sequencing landscape is ever-evolving, and staying updated on the latest advancements can be a daunting task. That's where the Sequencing Buyer's Guide comes in, providing a valuable resource for those seeking guidance on sequencing technologies. The latest edition, the 7th, was released on January 31, 2025, and offers an up-to-date, practical resource covering the breadth of DNA sequencing technology options.
The guide is divided into three main chapters:
- Chapter 1 - First Steps in Sample Preparation: Nucleic Acid Extraction This chapter provides a practical, hands-on approach to starting sequencing runs and basecalling protocols, with references to sequencing software like MinKNOW and associated device manuals.
- Chapter 2 - Next Steps in Sample Preparation: Library Preparation This chapter delves into DNA and RNA library preparation kits for short-read and long-read systems, ensuring that users have the necessary tools for their experiments.
- Chapter 3 - Meet the Short-Read Sequencers This chapter offers insights into the current dominance of second-generation NGS technologies due to their speed and cost-effectiveness, as well as the emerging third-generation (long-read) sequencing platforms. Detailed comparisons of sequencing technologies and workflow advancements are also discussed, such as the NextSeq series' evolution from a two-dye system to more advanced models featuring onboard informatics and cloud-based technology.
In addition, the guide covers the use of sequencing technologies in the clinic, using newborn screening as an example of the challenges and ethical discussions surrounding clinical data use. It also provides an overview of commercial long-read sequencing methods and highlights single-cell and spatial multi-omics sequencing technologies in Chapter 6.
The guide is not just a list of facts, but a comprehensive resource that supplements technical details on sequencing workflows and data analysis. It includes interviews and panel discussions with experts from academic, pharmaceutical, and clinical sectors, providing a well-rounded perspective on the current state of sequencing technologies.
For those considering outsourcing sequencing options, Chapter 7 offers valuable insights. The guide also includes up-to-date specifications of sequencing instrumentation and reagents used for NGS, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
To download the latest edition of the Sequencing Buyer's Guide, click here. This guide is a must-read for anyone interested in DNA sequencing technologies, offering a comprehensive, practical, and up-to-date resource on the current landscape.
Contributors to the guide include Pankaj Agrawal, Rosie Bamford, Jack Bartram, Ojasvi Chaudhary, Daniela Maria Cirillo, Anne Marie Comeau, Adam P. Cribbs, Josh Fienman, Bill Flynn, Sara Goodwin, Dorota Gruber, Gamze Gürsoy, Ingrid A. Holm, Miten Jain, Sally James, Niall Lennon, Szi Kay Leung, Elsa Molina, Michael Peterson, Michael Quail, Tamara Salloum, and others.
- The latest edition of the Sequencing Buyer's Guide, released on January 31, 2025, provides an up-to-date resource for those seeking guidance on DNA sequencing technology options.
- Chapter 1 of the guide, titled 'First Steps in Sample Preparation: Nucleic Acid Extraction,' offers practical insights for starting sequencing runs and basecalling protocols.
- In Chapter 2, 'Next Steps in Sample Preparation: Library Preparation,' users will find information on DNA and RNA library preparation kits for short-read and long-read systems.
- The guide discusses the current dominance of second-generation NGS technologies, their speed, cost-effectiveness, and the emerging third-generation (long-read) sequencing platforms.
- The guide covers the use of sequencing technologies in the clinic, addressing challenges and ethical discussions surrounding clinical data use, with newborn screening as an example.
- The guide is not just a list of facts but a comprehensive resource that supplements technical details on sequencing workflows and data analysis, including interviews and panel discussions with experts from various sectors.
