Summary of this article
NovaSeq is Illumina's state-of-the-art Next Generation Sequencer (NGS), characterized by extremely high throughput (ability to generate large amounts of data). NovaSeq is the most powerful model of Illumina sequencers on the market today and is ideal for projects that require large amounts of data, such as large-scale whole genome sequencing (WGS), transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq), and exome analysis.
NovaSeq is the leading model for next-generation sequencing, offering a wide range of data throughput options and used for analysis of large sample volumes and comprehensive analysis of complex genomes.
1. main features of NovaSeq
ultrahigh throughput
The most important feature of the NovaSeq is its extremely high data throughput: it can generate up to 6 Tb (terabytes) or more of data in a single run, making it possible to analyze hundreds of whole human genomes simultaneously. This is by far the most data that can be generated compared to other Illumina sequencers.
Flexible throughput options
NovaSeq offers a variety of Flow Cell options, allowing you to tailor data throughput to the size of your project. This allows for small to very large sequencing projects. The following four flow cell types are available
- S1 Flow Cell: For small to medium size projects. Generates up to 770 Gb of data.
- S2 Flow Cell: For mid-size projects. Generates up to 1.6 Tb of data.
- S4 Flow Cell: For large scale projects. Generates up to 6 Tb of data.
- SP Flow Cell: Minimum throughput option, suitable for cost-effective projects.
High-speed sequencing
NovaSeq is capable of extremely fast data generation. Even with paired-end 150 base pair (150 bp × 2) reads, large amounts of data can be generated within 1-2 days, enabling rapid results for time-consuming whole genome analysis and large RNA sequencing projects. The system can also be used to generate large amounts of data within one to two days.
Illumina’s innovative technologies (SBS technology and X-channel chemistry)
- Sequencing Bisynthesis (SBS) Technology:
NovaSeq, like all Illumina sequencers, utilizes SBS technology. This technology detects and determines DNA sequences in real time as fluorescently labeled nucleotides are incorporated one nucleotide at a time. Highly accurate and high-throughput data generation is possible. - X-Channel Chemistry:
NovaSeq uses Illumina’s latest X-channel chemistry, which is even faster and more efficient than traditional 2-channel chemistry. This technology significantly increases sequencing speed and generates vast amounts of data in a very short period of time.
Dual indexing option
NovaSeq supports dual indexing, allowing you to sequence thousands of samples simultaneously in a single run. This allows multiple samples to be processed efficiently, saving significant time and cost.
2. applications of NovaSeq
NovaSeq is widely used for very large sequencing projects and commercial sequencing services requiring high throughput. The main applications are as follows
2.1 Whole genome sequencing (WGS)
The NovaSeq is used as the standard model for human whole genome sequencing and is capable of whole genome analysis of large populations. Suitable for individual genome profiling and disease-related large-scale genomic variation analysis, it can cover the entire genome of multiple individuals in a single run, making it particularly suitable for cancer research and population genomics projects.
2.2 Transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq)
NovaSeq is also ideal for transcriptome analysis in gene expression analysis using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), as it can acquire large data sets in a short period of time. RNA profiling of tens to hundreds of samples can be performed at once.
2.3 Exome sequencing
Exome sequencing targets the coding regions of genes for comprehensive analysis of disease-associated genetic variation, and NovaSeq can perform exome sequencing of thousands of samples in parallel, making it suitable for large-scale genetic variation projects.
2.4 Multiplex target sequencing
The NovaSeq is also used for targeted sequencing, such as in cancer gene panels and genetic disease analysis panels, to detect a wide range of genetic variants. It is also cost-effective because it efficiently analyzes multiplexed samples.
2.5 Large-scale metagenomic analysis
NovaSeq is also used for metagenomic analysis (environmental DNA analysis) to analyze the diversity of microbial communities in the environment, monitor pathogens, and study evolution.
3. advantages of NovaSeq
- Very high throughput: With the ability to generate up to 6 Tb of data, large projects and thousands of samples can be analyzed quickly.
- Rapid data acquisition: NovaSeq is extremely fast and can generate large amounts of sequencing data within one to two days, enabling rapid results for even large, time-consuming analysis projects.
- Increased cost efficiency: High throughput and the ability to process large volumes of samples reduces the cost per sample, making it very efficient in large studies.
- Wide range of applications: Whole genome analysis, RNA sequencing, exome analysis, targeted sequencing, metagenome analysis, etc.
summary
NovaSeq is Illumina’s most powerful next-generation sequencer, with extremely high data throughput and flexible flow cell options, making it ideal for large-scale genome analysis projects. It is widely used by research institutions and commercial sequencing services that require high throughput analysis for whole genome sequencing, exome analysis, and RNA sequencing, as it can analyze large numbers of samples simultaneously and generate vast amounts of data in a short time.
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Supervisor of the article
Dr. Hiroshi Oka
Graduated from Keio University, Faculty of Medicine
Doctor of Medicine
Medical Doctor
