NGS Expert Blog

In the NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) group of the networking platform LinkedIn I came across a lively discussion about the best strategy for de novo sequencing of a bacterial genome. The discussion was about technology (Roche versus Illumina), coverage (from 10-fold on Roche GS FLX to 500-fold on Illumina HiSeq 2000) and library types. The comments and advices given coincide with our experience that this question can not be answered without any further information on the genome to be sequenced. GC content, amount and size of repeat structures as well as the genome size of the bacterium have to be considered. We have meanwhile de novo sequenced more than 100 microbial genomes and according to our experience GS FLX technology with a combination of shotgun and long paired end libraries will deliver a high quality genome sequence that is suitable for gap closing projects.

The multiple library approach is described in detail in our Application Note and in a Press Release. Depending on the complexity and size of the genome, we select the appropriate library.

Eurofins MWG Operon is organizing NGS roadshows throughout Germany. After our visits to the Bavarian cities Würzburg and Erlangen the next stops on the tour will be Hamburg (May 24^th), Kiel (May 25^th) and Berlin (May 26^th). On June 20^th, we are inviting to our roadshow in Freising (near Munich). In Baden-Württemberg we are looking forward to welcoming you on June 7^th to Tübingen, on July 11^th to Heidelberg and on July 12^th to Freiburg.

Core of the roadshows are presentations on NGS technologies and examples with a focus on latest developments. Subsequently interested parties have the opportunity to discuss projects in face-to-face conversations with our NGS experts.

For more information please see the official invitations.