Illumina Inc, San Diego, has introduced the NovaSeq series, a new and scalable sequencing architecture that is someday expected to make possible whole-genome sequencing with a pricetag of just $100. The platform aims to redefine high-throughput sequencing with still greater throughput, ease of use, low per-sample costs, and flexibility.
According to the company, NovaSeq is the most powerful sequencer it has ever launched, and seeks to open new horizons for more highly powered experiments at the depth required to discover rare genetic variants. It was designed from the ground up to allow a broad set of researchers to access next-generation sequencing technology and more easily conduct large-scale genomics projects with greater sample volumes, or more breadth and depth in the genome.
In addition to a single instrument capable of sequencing from three to 48 human whole genomes per run, the NovaSeq series hopes to open up new markets by making routine a wide range of applications, from ultra-deep sequencing of matched tumor-normal pairs, to large-scale variant discovery studies associated with complex diseases, and low-pass sequencing of seed banks to select for specific traits.
“We are excited to be among the first to incorporate Illumina’s new NovaSeq system into the HLI sequencing center to complement our existing HiSeq X systems,” says J. Craig Venter, PhD, cofounder and executive chairman of Human Longevity Inc. “Faster, inexpensive, and innovative sequencing technology is a key component driving breakthroughs in precision medicine. This technology is also enabling HLI to expand the HLI database, the world’s most comprehensive database of genomic, phenotypic, and clinical data.”
Francis deSouza, Illumina.
“The introduction of NovaSeq marks one of the most important inflection points of innovation in Illumina’s history,” says Francis deSouza, president and CEO of Illumina. “In the same way that HiSeq X enabled the $1,000 genome with the HiSeq architecture first announced in 2010, we believe that future systems derived from the NovaSeq architecture we are launching today one day will enable the $100 genome and propel discoveries that will enable a deeper understanding and better treatments for complex disease.”
He adds, “The NovaSeq systems enable the study of genetic links between health and disease at an unprecedented scale by making it possible to sequence more samples at greater depth and take on projects that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive. By accelerating the trajectory of genomics with these systems, Illumina is making it possible to envision a future in which all people can benefit from precision medicine.”
The NovaSeq series includes the NovaSeq 5000 and 6000 systems. These instruments offer ease of use features similar to those found in Illumina’s desktop sequencing portfolio, including automated onboard cluster generation, cartridge-based reagents, and streamlined workflows. With scalable throughput, users will have the flexibility to perform sequencing applications requiring different levels of output by simultaneously running one or two flow cells from up to four different flow cell types.
For research use only.
For more information, visit Illumina.
