16S rRNA sequencing is a targeted method for identifying and characterizing bacterial and archaeal communities based on variations in the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. This gene is present in all prokaryotes and contains conserved and hypervariable regions that allow for taxonomic classification. Traditional short-read sequencing methods typically cover only one or a few hypervariable regions (e.g., V3-V4), limiting taxonomic resolution and sometimes leading to ambiguous classifications. In contrast, our service sequences the entire 16S gene, capturing all hypervariable regions, providing more confident species-level identification, enabling you to explore complex microbiomes with clarity and confidence. Use Cases and Applications Our 16S sequencing service is widely applicable across research and industry sectors, offering high-resolution microbial profiling for a variety of needs: Human and Animal Microbiomes: Investigate gut microbiota, skin flora, and other host-associated microbial communities. Environmental Studies: Monitor microbial diversity in soil, water, and air samples, crucial for ecological and pollution assessments. Agricultural and Food Safety: Analyze soil microbiomes, plant rhizospheres, or food-associated microbial populations to improve crop yields and detect contaminants. Biotechnology and Industrial Applications: Characterize microbial consortia in fermentation, biofuel production, and bioremediation processes. Clinical and Diagnostic Research: Identify bacterial pathogens in clinical specimens, aiding infectious disease research and diagnostics. Our service is designed to be seamless and user-friendly, from sample submission through data delivery. We combine world-class technical expertise with state-of-the-art sequencing technology to ensure you receive high-quality, publication-ready results. How It Works Simply order sequencing online and include the order form in the package when sending your samples. Use your preferred shipping method or pre-order our GoSeq Sampling Kits, which include DNA extraction and a return shipping label for convenience. Local drop off and drop boxes are also available. Once we receive your samples, expect results returned via downloadable link in 1 – 3 days for the standard service, or in less than 24 hours for express service. Please use the guidance provided in our sampling and shipping documentation. Sequencing Options We offer different sequencing depth levels to fit your project’s needs: 5,000 Reads: Ideal for contamination screening or preliminary assessments. 25,000 Reads: Standard analysis providing reliable taxonomic resolution. 50,000 Reads: High-depth sequencing for greater data resolution and enhanced community profiling. In circumstances where the appropriate number of reads is not reached, we will assess quality control metrics and evaluate whether a re-run is warranted. Please see our failure policy for additional information. Technical Overview We utilize the latest Oxford Nanopore v14 technology, enabling high-accuracy sequencing and downstream analyses. Our workflow includes: DNA Extraction (optional): Clients can send extracted DNA, or we can perform extraction in-house using optimized protocols. Library Preparation: Full-length 16S rRNA PCR amplification with rapid barcoding for multiplexed sequencing. Sequencing: Conducted on high-throughput nanopore platforms, offering flexible scalability for projects of any size. Bioinformatics: Free standard analyses included with every sequencing package. What’s Included in Your Results Your final data package is carefully curated to maximize usability and insight. We deliver: Raw Sequencing Reads (FASTQ files) and basic quality metrics so you can perform any additional custom analyses. Species-Level Taxonomic Classifications mapped against our comprehensive 16S rRNA databases. Provided in a tabular format, sortable by taxonomic level (species, genus, family, etc.). Rarefaction Curves: Assess sequencing depth and community richness, ensuring sufficient coverage for accurate microbial profiling. Plots and Tables: Summarizing microbial abundance and community composition. Ready to Explore Your Microbial World? Take the first step toward detailed bacterial and archaeal community profiling by partnering with us for 16S rRNA sequencing. If you need multi-kingdom analysis or functional insights, consider combining 16S with ITS or a full metagenomic approach. Whatever your research requirements, our long-read solutions and expert team are here to help you uncover the complexity of the microbiome like never before. Get in touch today to discuss your project goals or request a quote directly through our website. We look forward to supporting your journey into advanced microbial genomics.
