Summary of this article
NextSeq is one of Illumina's Next Generation Sequencers (NGS), a model that enables high-throughput data acquisition NextSeq is suitable for medium to large sequencing projects. It is characterized by its ability to generate more data in less time. It is mainly used for large-scale analyses such as whole genome sequencing (WGS), transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq), and exome sequencing.
1. features of NextSeq
high throughput
NextSeq offers high-throughput data generation, capable of generating up to 120 Gb of data in a single run. This makes it ideal for projects that require large amounts of data, such as whole genome analysis and large-scale RNA sequencing.
Flexible throughput options
NextSeq offers two cartridge options. This allows you to choose either High Output or Mid Output mode, depending on the size of your project, and adjust the amount of data generated and run time.
- High Output mode: produces up to 120 Gb of data and up to 800M reads with 100 base pair (bp) paired-end reads.
- Mid Output mode: produces up to 39 Gb of data and up to 260M reads with 100 base pair paired paired-end reads.
Fast analysis
NextSeq is extremely fast sequencing compared to traditional Illumina sequencers; a single run provides analysis results within one to two days, making it ideal for time-sensitive projects.
Extensible lead length
NextSeq offers flexible read lengths, up to 150 base pairs (bp). This allows for either short or long reads to be used for analysis.
2. the NextSeq technology
Sequencing Bisynthesis (SBS) technology
NextSeq, like all Illumina sequencers, employs Sequencing by Synthesis (SBS ) technology, a technique in which fluorescently labeled nucleotides are incorporated into DNA one nucleotide at a time and the process is detected and sequenced in real time. The SBS technology is a method of sequencing DNA by detecting the incorporation of fluorescently labeled nucleotides one base at a time in real time. This allows for highly accurate and high-throughput sequencing.
2-Channel Chemistry
NextSeq uses Illumina’s 2-channel chemistry to read bases faster than traditional 4-channel methods. 2-channel chemistry uses two fluorescent signals to identify four different bases, which speeds up the sequencing cycle.
pair-end sequence
NextSeq supports paired-end sequencing (bidirectional sequencing), which improves the accuracy of genomic analysis by sequencing both ends of a DNA fragment. This enables the detection of complex mutations such as structural mutations, insertions, and deletions.
Integrated Flow Cell
NextSeq uses an integrated flow cell and hundreds of millions of clusters are sequenced in parallel. This allows a huge number of DNA fragments to be sequenced simultaneously.
3. Applications of NextSeq
NextSeq is ideal for medium to large sequencing projects. It is especially widely used for studies that require rapid acquisition of large amounts of data. Below are the main applications of NextSeq.
3.1 Whole genome sequencing (WGS)
NextSeq is used for whole genome sequencing of the human genome and other organisms; it can analyze the entire human genome in a single run and is widely used in cancer research, genetic disease analysis, and evolutionary research.
3.2 Exome sequencing
NextSeq is also suitable for exome sequencing (sequencing only the coding region of a gene), which allows rapid acquisition of data related to specific diseases or genetic mutations. For human exome analysis, hundreds of samples can be processed in parallel.
3.3 Transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq)
Gene expression analysis byRNA sequencing (RNA-seq) is also widely performed with NextSeq. This enables comprehensive examination of genes expressed in tissues and cells, and analysis of expression variations related to diseases and environmental responses.
3.4 Multiplex Target Sequencing
NextSeq is also used for high-throughput targeted sequencing to comprehensively detect genetic mutations in cancer research and genetic disease studies. It is very efficient when analyzing specific gene panels or when sequencing a large number of samples at once.
3.5 Microbial Genome Analysis
NextSeq is also used for whole genome and metagenomic analysis of microorganisms and is suitable for profiling diverse microbial communities in the environment and identifying infectious disease pathogens.
4. Advantages of NextSeq
- Throughput flexibility: NextSeq offers the flexibility to handle small-scale targeted analysis to large-scale whole-genome sequencing with the choice of High Output or Mid Output settings depending on the size of the project.
- Large amount of data in a short period of time: The fast sequencing process allows a large amount of sequence data to be acquired in a short period of time, making it suitable for projects with time constraints.
- User-friendly interface: NextSeq, like all Illumina sequencers, has intuitive software designed to be easy to use, even for novice users.
- Highly accurate data: Illumina’s SBS technology and 2-channel chemistry provide highly accurate and reliable data. This is especially useful for detecting complex genomic variations.
summary
NextSeq is a next-generation sequencer for medium to large sequencing projects and is widely used for whole genome analysis, RNA sequencing, and exome sequencing. It is widely used for whole genome analysis, RNA sequencing, and exome sequencing. High throughput and rapid data acquisition make it particularly suitable for research and clinical applications requiring large amounts of data.
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Supervisor of the article
Dr. Hiroshi Oka
Graduated from Keio University, Faculty of Medicine
Doctor of Medicine
Medical Doctor
