16S rRNA and 18S/ITS Microbiome Profiling
Your Industry, Our Focus
At Eurofins Genomics, we offer advanced 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA), 18S/ITS sequencing services to help you identify and compare bacterial and fungal communities in your samples. Our targeted metagenomic sequencing techniques allow for in-depth study of complex microbiomes, providing crucial insights into phylogeny and taxonomy.
We offer amplicon based metagenome, using short reads (V3-V4 region) as well as long reads with full length 16SrRNA.
Microbiome Profiling Services
Our microbiome sequencing approach utilizes the 16S rRNA and ITS gene as genetic markers, focusing on conserved hypervariable regions (V3 & V4) for bacteria and ITS regions for fungi. This method, coupled with PCR amplification and next-generation sequencing (NGS) using 2x300bp paired-end chemistry. Full length 16S rRNA or ITS can be done using Nanopore technology. This allows us to accurately identify and classify diverse microbial populations down to the genus or species level.
Each sample undergoes rigorous analysis, generating 0.1-0.2 million reads per sample for detailed comparative studies. By employing multiplexing approaches, we can analyse several amplicons from multiple samples in parallel, reducing the overall cost per sample.
Our End-to-End Solution
At Eurofins Genomics, we provide a comprehensive end-to-end solution for your 16S rRNA and fungal microbiome profiling needs along with bioinformatics analysis heling your microbiome study.
Sample Requirements
- Submit 1-3 µg of RNA-free genomic DNA (NGS grade) with high molecular weight, NanoDrop A260/280 ratio >1.8, A260/230 = 2.0-2.2, and a concentration of ~50 ng/µl.
- Alternatively, soil, plant/human microbiome, water, stool or sludge samples can be shipped in cool packs to our facility.
Sample Quality Control (QC)
- Isolation of RNA-free NGS grade gDNA using validated DNA isolation kits.
- Quality checks using agarose electrophoresis and NanoDrop, with quantification via Qubit 3.0 Fluorometer.
Library Preparation
- For Illumina
- Amplicon libraries prepared with 16S rDNA gene-specific primers and Nextera XT Index Kit.
- Library validation using Agilent 4200 TapeStation kit.
- For Nanopore
- Amplicons generated using 16S/ITS/18S targeted primer-set and processed for library preparation using Oxford Nanopore Rapid DNA sequencing-16S Barcoding Kit or native barcoding kit.
- Library quantification using Qubit Fluorometer.
Sequencing
- Conducted on the Illumina MiSeq platform using 2x300 bp paired-end sequencing chemistry and also can be done using Oxford Nanopore PromethION P2 Solo.
Deliverables
- Raw data available for download as compressed FASTQ files for each sample.
- Comprehensive compiled reports and datasets delivered via link.
- Bioinformatic analysis services available for detailed data interpretation.
Quick Turnaround Time
We understand the importance of timely results. Our standard turnaround time is 5-7 weeks after sample arrival and receipt of all necessary information, contingent on data size, project scope, technology selected, sample number, and complexity. This timeline assumes no biological or technical difficulties during processing.
Get Started with Eurofins Genomics Today!
Unlock the full potential of your microbiome research with Eurofins Genomics. Our comprehensive and reliable microbiome profiling services are designed to meet your specific needs, providing you with accurate, actionable insights.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your research and help you achieve your scientific goals.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ's )
What is 16S/18S/ITS microbiome profiling and why is it important?
16S/18S/ITS microbiome profiling is a targeted sequencing method used to identify and compare bacterial (16S rRNA) and fungal (18S/ITS) communities in a sample. This technique is essential for studying the phylogeny and taxonomy of complex microbiomes that are challenging to analyse using traditional methods.
What are the applications of 16S/18S/ITS microbiome profiling?
16S/18S/ITS microbiome profiling has a wide range of applications, including:
- Human Health: Studying the human microbiome to understand its role in health and disease.
- Environmental Monitoring: Analysing soil, water, and other environmental samples to assess microbial diversity and ecological impact.
- Agriculture: Investigating plant microbiomes to improve crop health and yield.
- Food Industry: Ensuring food safety and quality by monitoring microbial communities in food products.
- Bioremediation: Identifying microbial communities involved in the breakdown of pollutants.
How does 16S/18S/ITS sequencing differ from whole genome sequencing (WGS)?
16S/18S/ITS sequencing targets specific regions of the microbial genome (16S rRNA for bacteria, 18S/ITS for fungi) to identify and classify microbes. It is cost-effective, faster, and requires less computational power compared to WGS, which sequences the entire genome of all organisms in a sample. WGS provides more comprehensive data, including functional potential and genetic variations, but is more resource-intensive.
Can microbiome profiling be used to track changes over time in a microbial community?
Yes, microbiome profiling can be used to track temporal changes in microbial communities. By sampling at different time points and comparing the sequencing data, researchers can monitor shifts in microbial composition, understand the dynamics of microbial populations, and assess the impact of environmental changes, treatments, or interventions on the microbiome.
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