Whole Genome Bisulfite Sequencing (WGBS) Service
Services WGBS Workflow Features Sample Q&As Resource
Methylation of DNA at the fifth position in cytosine (5-mC) is a typical epigenetic modification that involves a variety of biological processes, including gene silencing, genomic imprinting, and X chromosome inactivation. Increasing evidence has proved DNA methylation is associated with cancer, and abnormal hypermethylation is commonly found in tumor suppressor gene promoter CpG islands during the development of cancer. Hence, detection and quantification of DNA methylation are critical to understand tumorigenesis.
Our Service
Creative Biolabs is a world-leading technology service company who has accumulated rich experience in cancer research based on next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. Leveraging our expertise in DNA methylation profiling and advanced technical platform, we are very honored to offer the superior-quality whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) services for global customers, enabling to identify individually methylated cytosines at a genome-wide scale.
Introduction of WGBS
WGBS combines bisulfite conversion with NGS technology, enabling to efficiently detect genome-wide DNA methylation at the single-base resolution level. All unmethylated cytosines are converted into uracil while methylated cytosines remain unchanged after the treatment of genomic DNA with bisulfite. Then NGS technology is applied to sequence the whole genome after bisulfite treatment, and the methylation of whole genome is identified at single-base resolution by comparing with the reference genome. This method is a valuable research tool and widely applied to study gene regulation, cell differentiation, embryogenesis, aging, and tumorigenesis.
Fig. 1 General principle of WGBS. (Masser, 2018)
Workflow
Features
- High accuracy: strict quality procedures to ensure the accurate analysis of each C base methylation state
- High reliability: direct sequencing and quantification of methylated fragments without cross-reaction and background noise
- Genome coverage: genome-wide methylation identification at single-base resolution
- Bioinformatics: raw data quality control, read mapping, genome-wide methylation analysis, and differential methylation analysis
- Sequencing: sequencing 2x150 bp on Illumina platform, sequencing depth ≥ 30X, Q30 sequencing score > 80%
- End-to-End services: from sample preparation to data analysis
- Rapid turnaround time: 4-8 weeks
Sample Requirements
- DNA amount: ≥ 4.0 μg
- DNA concentration: ≥ 50 ng/μl
- DNA volume: ≥ 20 μl
- Purity: OD260/280=1.8~2.0, without degradation, no RNA or protein contamination
Creative Biolabs has accomplished several challenging WGBS projects and accumulated rich experience in methylation analysis. We are confident in offering the first-in-class WGBS services to help you to detect genome-wide DNA methylation at single-base resolution. Besides, our excellent expert team strictly follows quality procedures to ensure accurate data delivery. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information and a detailed quote.
Reference
- Masser, D.R.; et al. Analysis of DNA modifications in aging research. GeroScience. 2018, 40(1):11-29.
Q&As
Q: What factors should be considered before starting a WGBS project?
A: Key factors include the methylation rate of the species, the completeness and quality of the genome
assembly, and the complexity of the genome, such as GC content and presence of repetitive regions. These
considerations are crucial for designing an effective WGBS experiment.
Q: Can WGBS be performed on species without a reference genome?
A: While WGBS can technically be performed on species without a reference genome, the accuracy of the
results may be compromised. It is more suitable for species with well-annotated genomes to ensure reliable
methylation mapping and data interpretation.
Q: What are the advantages of WGBS over targeted methylation sequencing?
A: WGBS provides a comprehensive view of the methylome, allowing for the discovery of novel methylation
sites and patterns across the entire genome. This is particularly beneficial for exploratory studies and
identifying genome-wide epigenetic changes.
Q: How is data quality and reliability ensured in WGBS?
A: Data quality is ensured through rigorous library preparation, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis
protocols. Tools like the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer and qPCR are used to assess library quality, while
advanced algorithms handle data processing and methylation calling.
Q: What support is available for WGBS projects?
A: Comprehensive support includes consultation on experimental design, library preparation, sequencing, and
bioinformatic analysis. Many service providers offer detailed protocols and technical assistance to ensure
successful project completion and high-quality data.
Resources
Infographics
Podcast
Note: Our sequencing services are for Research Use Only. Not For Clinical Diagnosis.
Related Services:
- Reduced-representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) Service
- Targeted Methylation Sequencing Service
- Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) Sequencing Service
- Chromatin Accessibility Sequencing Service
- Epigenomic Sequencing Service for Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) Tissue
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