Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Nowadays Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) has become a standard method in basic science as well as in clinical contexts for analysing differential gene expression, for identification of mutations and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) or for metagenomic studies analysing the diverse composition of microbial communities. More recent technological advances even allow for gene expression profiling of thousands of cells simultaneously using Single Cell Sequencing or in a local tissue context using Spatial Transcriptomics. However, especially the latter methods are highly demanding in terms of specific laboratory equipment and expertise. 

The NGS Sequencing Facility Homburg as part of the Core Facility Molecular Single Cell and Particle Analysis has been founded in 2022 and has since supported many partners in research collaborations in the area of NGS.

For our users, we offer an all-in-one package, including:

• consultation prior to the project to discuss project setup including number of samples, quality of samples,   appropriate controls and replicates, time line of the project
• project-based quotation of the project incl. costs for library preparation, quality control steps and sequencing
• library prep and sequencing once we receive the samples
• Data transfer of the fastq files of all samples (demultiplexed) either as download link or via external hard drive   (user provided)

The Sequencing Facility offers no data analysis per se. If our users need support with data analysis, we are happy to refer them to the appropriate groups within the center for bioinformatics (ZBI).

The following workflows are established and will be performed as full service:

•   Whole transcriptome sequencing (MGI)
•   smallRNA sequencing (MGI)
•   Whole genome sequencing (MGI, Illumina)
•   Metagenome sequencing (MGI, Illumina)
•   Single Cell sequencing (10x Genomics)
•   Spatial Transcriptomics (10x Genomics, MGI)

In addition, we are equipped with a Laser Microdissection Microscope that allows our users to isolated areas or single cells from histological sections for sequencing.