Sanger Sequencing is a method used to determine the sequence of nucleotides in a piece of DNA. We start by mixing your amplified DNA template with primers and a blend of standard and fluorescently tagged terminator nucleotides.
After heating to denature the DNA, the primers bind to the single-stranded template, allowing DNA polymerase to extend the sequence.
The inclusion of fluorescently tagged terminators causes random chain termination which creates a pool of DNA fragments of varying lengths.
These fragments are then separated and analysed, revealing the DNA sequence as the fluorescent tags are detected.
We use phylogenetic typing to find pathogens where traditional diagnostic tests cannot be applied.
We identify genetic variations and specific genotypes, providing essential clinical insights.
We pinpoint genetic mutations that lead to drug resistance, helping in the effective management medicine.
We use two Illumina MiSeq instruments for paired-end next-generation sequencing, where DNA is broken into short fragments and tagged with unique adaptors. These tagged fragments bind to a flow cell, where they are amplified to create clusters of DNA ready for sequencing.
The sequencing process involves adding fluorescently labelled nucleotides, which emit signals that are read and translated into DNA sequences by the MiSeq. This generates both forward and reverse reads, providing comprehensive data in fastq format.
Additionally, we utilize Oxford Nanopore technology for long-read sequencing, enhancing our research and diagnostic capabilities.
As well as customised research projects, we are developing diagnostics assays for pathogen detection and drug resistance screening using the MiSeq/ONT platforms. Get in touch to see if our sequencing services are appropriate for your project.