Quantifying transcripts accurately and reproducibly is critical when studying gene expression. Scientists have developed two powerful tools for RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) experiments to minimize bias and variability: unique molecular identifiers (UMIs) and ERCC RNA spike-ins. We’ll cover the basics of each and how they can help you produce better RNA-Seq data. Unique Molecular Identifiers (UMIs) What are […]
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Sanger sequencing is highly effective for testing small targeted genomic regions and for validating results from NGS. However, as with all sequencing technologies, there are limitations and needs for troubleshooting. Sanger Sequencing Troubleshooting If the sample that you are sequencing does not produce the desired read quality, we recommend starting with three basic troubleshooting steps. […]
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In the current sequencing landscape, there are two major technologies that are often used to read the nucleotide bases in plasmid DNA: the traditional Sanger method and long-read sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT). These two methods have a few fundamental differences and work best when used synergistically for an accurate and comprehensive view into […]
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The landscape of drug development is constantly evolving, fueled by groundbreaking scientific advancements. While genetics has played a central role in understanding diseases, proteomics – the study of proteins – provides a more comprehensive picture of disease phenotypes and mechanisms. Proteins act as intermediate phenotypes, bridging the gap between genetic associations and tangible disease pathology. […]
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Brewing beer is a complex process that requires careful control of its parameters, including the yeast strains used for fermentation. Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) not only generates ethanol and carbon dioxide, but also creates flavors and aromas in beer. For example, ale yeast tends to produce fruity, spicy, or floral flavors and aromas, whereas lager […]
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The field of proteomics has evolved significantly in the last decade, with several technologies now available to assay protein biomarkers in clinical studies. In this article, we compare three popular approaches for proteomics – mass spectrometry, ELISA, and the Olink® Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) – and highlight their strengths and limitations. Mass Spectrometry Assays based on mass spectrometry […]
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The structure of mRNA has been known for decades, but only in recent years have researchers unlocked its potential for therapeutic development. With the right delivery vehicle, mRNA products can replace defective proteins in the cell, generate antigens for immunization (e.g., COVID vaccines), or edit the genome via CRISPR technology. Let’s review the structural features of a […]
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Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are promising vectors for in vivo gene therapy. They can deliver a genetic payload of up to 4.7 kb and infect a wide range of cell types with virtually no pathogenicity. AAV production is a stepwise process that begins with construction of a transfer plasmid and ends with packaging of the recombinant genome into […]
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Examining gene expression at single-cell resolution provides insights into complex populations by identifying rare cell types, revealing cell heterogeneity, and uncovering other unique gene expression signatures that can guide our understanding of disease – and ultimately – drug development. However, finding meaningful patterns in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) results can be challenging, as data sets […]
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Ivory is a highly valuable material found in the tusks of hippopotamuses, walruses, and other animals, but is most commonly – and illegally – sourced from elephants. Every year, tens of thousands of elephants in Africa are slaughtered by poachers for their tusks to sell in the illegal ivory trade, contributing to the decline of […]
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