High-Throughput RNA Sequencing Services for Comprehensive Transcriptomic Insights
Generate reliable RNA-Seq data from ultra-low RNA input while preserving precious clinical samples.
Scalable, Customizable End-to-End RNA-Seq Services
Discovery’s Genomics RNA-Seq workflows can be tailored for your specific needs:
- Support a full range of RNA types, including total RNA, mRNA, rRNA-reduced RNA, globin-reduced RNA, miRNA, and extracellular RNA
- Multiple optimized library construction options available
- Advanced sequencing technologies and lab automation enable projects at any scale
Ultra-Low-Input RNA Sequencing Pipeline Validated to Minimize Sample Utilization
Generate high‑quality data using Discovery’s validated ultra–low‑input RNA‑seq workflow, leveraging a proprietary dual nucleic acid extraction method to deliver exceptional precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity from minimal input sample.
- Only requires 10 – 50 ng of input RNA
- ~92% success compared to ~32% with standard methods
- >95% sample TPM reproducibility
- >96% fusion accuracy
- >96% fusion sensitivity
- >97% fusion specificity
Proprietary Dual Nucleic Acid Extraction
Our proprietary extraction method delivers a ~94% success rate which is more than double that of standard off‑the‑shelf approaches. It enables simultaneous DNA and RNA extraction from a single sample, supporting matched sequencing workflows. The process is optimized for even the most challenging sample types, including FFPE tissues and core needle biopsies.
Figure 1. (A) Assessing Discovery’s dual nucleic acid extraction method on FFPE across many indications shows a significant improvement in RNA quality. (B) This enhanced method ultimately resulted in the immediate improvement of RNA-Seq success rate of sequencing with at least 100M PE reads per sample and a mapping rate > 85% by nearly 200%.
White Paper
Optimized Methods for Sequencing RNA from FFPE Samples
While FFPE is a gold standard preservation method for immunohistochemistry and other antibody-based analyses, the technique can pose difficulties for researchers wishing to extract nucleic acid-based information, especially gene expression data.
World-Class Bioinformatics and Data Storage Solutions
Comprehensive RNA-Seq analysis includes expression profiling, fusion and splice variant detection, pathway analysis, and flexible data delivery with tiered reporting and storage options.
- Comprehensive RNA-Seq analysis:
- RPKM, FPKM, TPM analyses
- Differential expression analysis
- Fusion Detection
- RNA splice site isoform analysis
- Gene Set Enrichment Analysis
- Multiple bioinformatics and data delivery options:
- Tier 1: FASTQ output and summary report
- Tier 2: Standard application-specific outputs (BCL, FASTQ, BAM, VCF, gVCF)
- Tier 3: Standard output plus interpretation, reports, and flexible data delivery, and additional storage and consulting time
- 90-day data storage is included and long-term storage options are available
- Client-facing LIMS system offers fast, flexible data delivery and real-time data viewing
- Partnership with DNAnexus for cloud-based data delivery, visualization and storage
Your Complete RNA-Seq Solution
From extraction to publication-ready insights, we provide a fully integrated workflow designed for reliability, speed, and scientific excellence.
Sample Prep
Quality That Starts at the Bench
Unlock consistent, high-quality RNA from challenging clinical materials with validated workflows delivering exceptional extraction across blood, FFPE, PBMCs, tissues, and cells.
Proprietary automation ensures RNA quality (DV200 > 30%) in 98% of samples.
Library Prep
Built for Challenging Inputs
Our validated mRNA-seq and Total RNA-seq workflows enable confident transcriptomics from low-input or degraded samples (25–100 ng, DV200 > 20%).
Strand-specific, scalable prep with rRNA + globin depletion. Fast, automated, and built for large-scale projects.
Sequencing
Speed Without Compromise
Deliver ultra-fast turnaround without compromising depth or accuracy.
Cross-validated on Illumina NovaSeq 6000 and X Plus, with proven performance across RNA qualities and transcript complexities.
Built for clinical reliability and real-world variability.
Data Analysis
Insights Delivered Instantly
Through our DNAnexus partnership, sequencing data is delivered at remarkable speed.
Get rapid FASTQ files, secondary outputs (BAMs, VCFs, gene counts), and concierge bioinformatics support for publication-ready data and figures.
Unlock the Potential of RNA-Seq in Clinical Trials
RNA-Seq detects gene fusions and differential expression of disease-causing transcripts, serving as a powerful tool for molecular profiling in clinical trials. Discovery Genomics’ optimized workflows and CAP-accredited, CLIA-certified, and GCLP-compliant laboratory accelerate clinical trial success, aiding in the discovery of potential predictive biomarkers for companion diagnostic development.
Featured RNA-Seq Publications
RNA-Seq Service Frequently Asked Questions
What types of RNA sequencing do you offer?
Discovery offers multiple RNA sequencing formats including low-input mRNA-Seq, dual RNA/DNA extraction, stranded total RNA-Seq, and customized pipelines for FFPE or fresh frozen samples. We tailor workflows to match your sample type and research goals.
Can you work with low-quality or degraded RNA, like from FFPE samples?
Yes. Our optimized RNA-Seq workflow is specifically designed to accommodate degraded RNA from FFPE samples, with validated protocols that minimize dropout and preserve transcriptome integrity.
What is your typical turnaround time for RNA-Seq projects?
Our average turnaround time is approximately 2–4 weeks, depending on project complexity, sample quality, and bioinformatics requirements. Expedited options are available upon request.
What is included in your RNA-Seq data deliverables?
You will receive FASTQ files, optional BAM alignment files, expression count matrices, and QC metrics. We also offer optional bioinformatics reports including differential gene expression, clustering, and pathway analysis.
Can you help with study design and panel customization?
Yes. Our scientific team provides upfront consultation on library prep method, input quantity, read depth, and bioinformatics endpoints to ensure your RNA-Seq experiment aligns with your goals.
What input amount is required for RNA sequencing?
We can accept as little as 10 ng of total RNA from high-quality samples and have protocols for degraded RNA inputs from FFPE down to DV200 ≥30%. For best results, we recommend ≥100 ng of total RNA.
How do I get in touch with someone to get a quote?
Contact us at info@dls.com or click here and we will put you in touch with the right experts to discuss your project.
How can I arrange sample shipments?
A Scope of Work (SOW) and/or Purchase Order (PO) must be completed before arranging any sample shipment. Shipments received prior to receipt of proper information will be quarantined and may be returned to the sender if needed information and official documentation is not received in a timely manner. It is suggested that a project kick-off discussion be conducted prior to shipment of any samples to ensure alignment with the laboratory activities upon receipt of samples.
Where will project details be noted and who is my primary contact?
An Analytical Plan will be compiled by your dedicated project manager. The Analytical Plan details laboratory activities and ensures client alignment prior to any sample processing.
The Analytical Plan will be shared with you for edits and comments. Discovery’s quality standards require that the Analytical Plan is agreed upon and signed off by Discovery and the client prior to any testing being performed.
Your primary contact throughout your project will be your dedicated project manager.
NOTE: Some projects may not require a formal Analytical Plan if deemed out of scope for the nature of the project at Discovery's discretion. This will be discussed with your Project Manager during the initiation of each project.
What information is required when I send my samples?
All sample shipments will require a clearly defined manifest including Protocol/Study identification, sample information, patient ID (if available), and contact information for shipper to rectify missing and/or ambiguous information.
Click here to see sample shipment requirements.
Any shipments missing this critical information will be put into quarantine and may experience extended turnaround times.