WGS library prep kits

Library prep kits for whole genome sequencing

Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) enables researchers to decode the complete DNA sequence of an organism’s genome, providing an exhaustive, base-by-base overview of its genetic material. This technique can accurately identify single nucleotide variants, insertions and deletions, copy number variations, and large structural changes in the genome. WGS is particularly well-suited for a wide range of discovery applications, including medical diagnostics, cancer genomics, evolutionary biology, metagenomics, and agricultural genomics in plants and livestock.

Revvity provides three different library preparation kits designed to facilitate WGS for customers utilizing Illumina® and Element Biosciences® sequencing instruments. These workflows differ in the method that the researcher uses to break DNA into smaller fragments, making them manageable for sequencing. Please continue reading to understand which is the best option for you.

For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures

No fragmentation – cell-free DNA

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a unique and important type of DNA that is found circulating freely in the bloodstream and other bodily fluids. Its small size makes additional fragmentation unnecessary. Researchers often prefer the mononucleosome fraction of cfDNA (cfDNA wrapped around a single nucleosome) as it is more protected from nucleases, tends to be less contaminated with non-specific DNA and has a uniform size which is ideal for sequencing. Revvity’s NEXTFLEX™ Cell-free DNA-seq 2.0 kit includes an optional step to enrich for this fraction.

Mechanical fragmentation

Traditional approach where DNA is broken using physical methods like sonication or nebulization, which mechanically shear the DNA. DNA is fragmented before entering the library preparation. Preferred for applications where highly random fragmentation is required, or where enzyme-induced biases might be a concern.

Enzymatic fragmentation

Alternative method where DNA is fragmented during the library preparation, using enzymes to cut DNA in a random manner. Revvity’s kit is based on the use of DNase, which fragment DNA into pieces of an appropriate size for sequencing. This method offers better control over fragment size than mechanical fragmentation and is easier to scale for high-throughput sequencing. It is particularly advantageous when working with limited DNA samples or when uniform coverage is essential.

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