Overview
PacBio provides highly accurate long-read sequencing technology (HiFi reads with 99.9% accuracy) for genome, transcriptome, and epigenome analysis. The platform enables de novo genome assemblies, structural variant detection, and full-length transcript sequencing without assembly. PacBio serves pharmaceutical R&D applications including plasmid sequencing, cell line verification, mRNA polyA tail measurement, and directed evolution studies.
Frequently asked questions
- What sequencing accuracy does PacBio HiFi technology achieve?
- PacBio HiFi reads deliver 99.9% accuracy, matching the performance of short-read sequencing and Sanger sequencing while providing significantly longer read lengths.
- What are the primary applications for pharmaceutical R&D?
- Key applications include plasmid sequencing, cell line sequencing and verification, mRNA polyA tail measurement, directed evolution studies, and full-length transcript sequencing for biologics development.
- How does PacBio compare to second-generation sequencing technologies?
- PacBio offers much longer read lengths and faster runs than second-generation sequencing, enabling de novo genome assemblies and structural variant detection. However, it has lower throughput and higher cost, making it complementary to short-read technologies for comprehensive genomic analysis.
- Can PacBio detect epigenetic modifications?
- Yes, PacBio sequencing detects native base modifications including m6A and m4C epigenetic motifs during sequencing, even in low-coverage and high-contamination scenarios, without requiring separate assays.
- What is the advantage of long-read sequencing for genome assembly?
- Long reads enable highly contiguous de novo assemblies that close gaps in reference genomes, characterize structural variations in personal genomes, and provide reliable scaffolds for complex genomic regions.