For RNA-seq samples, we require 3 µg of total RNA per sample, with a minimum concentration of 40 ng/µl. For DNA samples, we require 2 µg of DNA per sample, with a minimum concentration of 85 ng/µl. (These requirements may be adjusted based on the specific kit used).

We do not perform RNA or DNA isolation in our lab and prefer receiving already extracted RNA and DNA. However, extraction services can be provided upon request for an additional charge.

Submission type options include DNA and RNA samples for short-read sequencing, QC and quantification (Bioanalyzer, Qubit), Nanopore PromethION long-read sequencing, single-cell and spatial services, user-submitted libraries for short-read sequencing (pre-pooled) and custom processing services. Please complete the submission form electronically and print a copy to include with your samples. Samples will only be processed upon receipt of the printed submission form along with the physical samples. Please ensure that sample names exactly match tube labels, contain no spaces, and use only uppercase letters, numbers, and underscores.

We use the Element Biosciences AVITI platform for short-read sequencing and Oxford Nanopore platforms for long-read sequencing.

We sequence Illumina style libraries using the Element Biosciences AVITI platform. Although sequencing chemistries differ from other systems, library preparation requirements and data formats remain largely compatible. The AVITI platform provides high-quality data (typically Q44), supports longer insert libraries, eliminates index hopping/switching, and shows minimal to non-detectable read duplication. It also requires higher input concentrations, which are generally easy to achieve, especially when multiplexing libraries.

Illumina-compatible libraries require four key adapter components at the fragment ends for paired-end sequencing: flow cell binding sites (P5 and P7) for cluster generation, sequencing primer binding sites (Read 1 and Read 2) to initiate sequencing from both ends, index sequences (i5 and i7) for sample multiplexing, and index primer binding sites required for reading the indices. Libraries may be single-indexed or dual-indexed. If any component is missing, modified, or incorrectly configured, sequencing may fail. Please contact us with any questions regarding library design or configuration.

Demultiplexing is included in our sequencing services. However, please ensure that sample IDs and barcodes are unique and accurately provided. Sample names should not contain spaces and should be formatted appropriately for downstream analysis. This helps avoid delays caused by re-demultiplexing due to incorrect submission details, such as inappropriate sample names, duplicate identifiers, or barcode errors.

Sequencing design questions: Please email Dr. Luo at: luoj@upmc.edu ; Bioinformatics consultation request: Please email Dr. Asif at: hua60@pitt.edu ; Lab questions: Please contact Lijun Liu at: LIL305@pitt.edu

We are located at Scaife Hall, Room S786, High Throughput Genome Center, Department of Pathology, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261.

Yes, we offer sequence data analysis, statistical evaluation, and consulting services to help you maximize the value of your data. Please contact us for bioinformatics consultations and complete analysis packages, including sequencing-based analyses such as variant calling, differential gene expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, and integrative multi-omics.

Yes. We typically request co-authorship along with an estimate of effort percentage for the work contributed. This helps appropriately acknowledge intellectual and analytical contributions and supports accurate reporting of effort on grants, while allowing us to continue providing strong support for your projects.