We offer a range of quality control (QC) services for quantifying NGS libraries, bulk RNA, and other nucleic acid samples.

Fragment Analyzer:

The fragment analyzer (FA) is a capillary-electrophoresis based platform for nucleic acid quantification. The FA is our workhorse QC method for quantifying libraries prior to sequencing, and we also offer FA-QC as a standalone service. We run a variety of FA assays depending on sample composition. For NGS libraries (25-1000 bp) we offer either standard or high sensitivity assays, depending on the expected concentration. We also offer genomic DNA QC on the fragment analyzer. The fragment analyzer provides accurate estimates of concentration and fragment size distribution.

Note: Historically we have offered QC for NGS libraries on the Bio-Analyzer as well. However, the Bio-Analyzer platform is slated to be phased out in the coming years, and it has significant throughput limitations compared to the fragment analyzer. In terms of data output, we treat the two platforms as essentially interchangeable. During periods of high submission volume, we may run Bio-Analyzer samples on the Fragment analyzer (or vice versa). If you absolutely must have QC from a specific platform, please leave a comment on the submission form letting us know.

Bio-Analyzer (RNA QC):

We QC bulk RNA samples using either the RNA-pico or RNA-nano Bio-Analyzer assay, depending on the expected concentration. The Bio-Analyzer is a chip-based electrophoresis platform for quantifying nucleic acids. RNA QC provides quantification of concentration and sizing, as well as RNA integrity index scores (RIN). We store RNA samples in a -80 once they are checked into out facility.

Qubit

Qubit is a fluorometric assay for accurately quantifying nucleic acid concentration. Qubit does not allow for fragment size quantification.

Nano Drop

The Nano Drop is a spectrophotometry-based platform for quantifying nucleic acid. We will offer Nano Drop QC upon request. Nano Drop QC allows for estimates of nucleic acid concentration and extract purity.

Note: in our experience the Nano-Drop platform is not accurate in comparison to other methods. Due to its principle of operation, the presence of off target substances in the sample buffer can affect results (more so than with other nucleic acid assays). Nano Drop can be useful for quantifying extract purity, and to simply see if ‘something is there’ when troubleshooting new extraction protocols. It is not recommended for situations where very accurate and precise estimates of nucleic acid concentration are needed.

Pippin

The pippin is a platform for DNA shearing to a specific size using ultrasonic agitation of the sample. We offer pippin-fragmentation and QC as a standalone service.