An automated proteomics solution using SOMAmer technology and Illumina sequencing for accurate and reproducible quantification of 9.5K human proteins in 2.5 days
SomaSeq Discovery detects and quantifies human proteins across more than 200 biological pathways using a SOMAmer-based proteomics assay with an NGS readout.
SOMAmer Reagents used in the Illumina SomaSeq Discovery assay are rigorously characterized by shape specificity and polyionic competition and orthogonally confirmed by methods such as mass spectrometry and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay).
SOMAmer Reagents provide market-leading reproducibility in blood with ~5.5%* CV and femtomolar sensitivity with over a 10-log dynamic range.
*Expected median CV calculated using donor plasma samples.
The entire workflow is automated on a single platform, providing an end‑to‑end solution for high‑throughput, solution for high-throughput studies with capacity, with capacity to process up to 340 samples and 44 controls per week, with seamlessly integrated secondary analysis pipelines and comprehensive tertiary analysis solutions.
| Assay time | ~2.5 days |
|---|---|
| Automation capability | Liquid handling robot(s) |
| Automation details | The SomaSeq Discovery assay is fully automated on the Illumina SomaSeq Automation System, a custom Tecan Fluent 780, with the required parts to completely automate the assay on deck |
| Content specifications | The SomaSeq Discovery assay is the largest NGS-based proteomics panel with ~9500 unique human protein targets |
| Description | Illumina SomaSeq Discovery is a NGS-based proteomics panel solution for the analysis of major molecular targets such as receptors, kinases, growth factors, and hormones, spanning secreted, intracellular, and extracellular proteins in humans |
| Hands-on time | ~4 hr |
| Input quantity | 55 μL of human plasma or serum |
| Instruments | NovaSeq X System, NovaSeq 6000 System, NovaSeq X Plus System |
| Mechanism of action | SomaSeq Discovery uses SOMAmer proteomics for aptamer-based protein capture followed by Illumina library prep. The Illumina SomaSeq Automation System automates the entire assay workflow on deck |
| Method | NGS-based proteomics |
| Multiplexing | 96 reactions are run per batch on the Illumina SomaSeq Automation System; up to 384 reactions can be run on the NovaSeq X 25B flow cell, up to 192 reactions can be run on the NovaSeq X 10B flow cell and NovaSeq 6000 S4 flow cell |
| Sample type details | Compatible with human plasma or serum samples |
| Species category | Human |
| Technology | Sequencing |
Illumina SomaSeq Automation System (Catalog no. 20116818).
Required one-time purchase. The assay must be automated using the Illumina SomaSeq Automation System. Contact your local Illumina Account Manager to learn more about our SomaSeq Discovery service partners.
Choose either the plasma or serum assay based on your preferred input sample type:
Illumina SomaSeq Discovery Plasma, 96 Reactions (Catalog no. 20137827), or Illumina SomaSeq Discovery Serum, 96 Reactions (Catalog no. 20137828).
Choose one index plate per 96-reaction kit:
Illumina DNA/RNA UD Indexes (96 indexes, 96 samples)
Set A (Catalog no. 20141196)
Set B (Catalog no. 20141197)
Set C (Catalog no. 20141198)
Set D (Catalog no. 20141199)
SomaSeq Discovery enables sequence-ready libraries for the detection of ~9500 unique human proteins for proteomic discovery and quantification applications, including biomarker discovery and population genetics studies.
SomaSeq Discovery
SomaSeq Discovery combines sequencing by synthesis chemistry with SOMAmer Reagents for a comprehensive NGS-based assay. The entire workflow is automated on the Illumina SomaSeq Automation System.
Gain unprecedented scalability and sequencing depth for comprehensive multiomic projects.
Access robust, scalable sequencing for high-throughput applications.
DRAGEN Protein Quantification
Integrated secondary analysis pipeline auto-launches after sequencing for complete normalization and protein expression quantification.
Illumina Connected Multiomics
Unlock deeper biological insights with a powerful omics analysis software featuring interactive visualization and statistical analysis.
| Instrument | Recommended number of samples | Read length |
|---|---|---|
| NovaSeq 6000 System | 192 reactions per flow cell on S4 35c |
40M reads, 1 × 15 |
| NovaSeq X System | 192 reactions per flow cell on 10B 100c |
40M reads, 1 × 15 |
Explore the entire set of proteins in an organism, also known as the proteome, with next-generation sequencing.
Use multiomics profiling to multiply discovery power and better connect genotype to phenotype.
Samples are processed using the SOMAmer Reagents followed by Illumina SomaSeq Discovery, automated on Illumina SomaSeq Automation System, and sequenced on a NovaSeq System.
SOMAmer Reagents (blue) contain a photocleavable linker and biotin. Bound to streptavidin beads, they capture specific proteins and tag with biotin (yellow). UV light breaks the linker, releasing SOMAmer-protein complexes, which are captured on new beads and eluted for quantification using NGS.
Following SOMAmer proteomics, SOMAmer Reagent abundances are converted to barcoded sequencing-ready libraries using a hybridization-based approach.
SomaSeq Discovery solution: the new standard in proteomics
Launch the next era of proteomics with the NGS-based SomaSeq Discovery solution. Unlock high-throughput discovery power, market-leading performance, and integrated analysis to accelerate your next proteomics breakthrough on NovaSeq 6000 and NovaSeq X Systems.
Precision proteomics with SomaSeq Discovery
SomaSeq Discovery delivers high-throughput proteomic insights with exceptional specificity, enabling accurate detection of over 9500 unique human proteins from a single sample. Powered by rigorously validated SOMAmer Reagents, this solution helps researchers confidently identify and quantify proteins, even those that are nearly identical, to accelerate biomarker and drug discovery.
The Evolving Landscape of Proteomics
At the HUPO World Congress, join Stuart Cordwell, PhD, University of Sydney Mass Spectrometry director to explore where proteomics is headed and why reproducibility, wide dynamic range, and SOMAmer-based tools support more effective biomarker discovery for precision medicine.
Proteomics workflows: affinity and mass spectrometry
Presented at the HUPO World Congress, Stuart Cordwell, PhD, University of Sydney, examines how mass spectrometry and affinity proteomics complement one another to advance clinical proteomics. He shares clinical insights and introduces SomaSeq Discovery, an NGS-based approach designed to support scalable, reproducible biomarker discovery.
Scalable NGS‑based proteomics
At the HUPO World Congress, Fiona Kaper, PhD, VP and Head of Assay Research and Development at Illumina, shares a vision for scalable, reliable proteomics as a core pillar of multiomics. She introduces SomaSeq Discovery, an end‑to‑end NGS‑based platform designed to enable high‑confidence, large‑scale biomarker discovery in workflows complementary to mass spectrometry.
Illumina SomaSeq Discovery Plasma (96 samples)
20137827
Illumina SomaSeq Discovery Plasma reagents for 96 samples.
Illumina SomaSeq Discovery Serum (96 samples)
20137828
Illumina SomaSeq Discovery Serum reagents for 96 samples.
Illumina SomaSeq Automation System
20116818
This package supports customers who want to automate their Illumina SomaSeq Discovery assay. It includes a Tecan Fluent OEM automation system equipped to run SomaSeq Discovery assay protocols, robotic accessories, and the control software to run the assay
Illumina® DNA/RNA UD Indexes v3, Set A, Auto (96 Indexes 96 samples)
20141196
Includes one box of 96 Illumina DNA/RNA UD v3 Indexes Set A for labeling 96 samples sufficient for automation
List Price:
Discounts:
Illumina® DNA/RNA UD Indexes v3, Set B, Auto (96 Indexes 96 samples)
20141197
Includes one box of 96 Illumina DNA/RNA UD v3 Indexes Set B for labeling 96 samples sufficient for automation
List Price:
Discounts:
Illumina® DNA/RNA UD Indexes v3, Set C, Auto (96 Indexes 96 samples)
20141198
Includes one box of 96 Illumina DNA/RNA UD v3 Indexes Set C for labeling 96 samples sufficient for automation
List Price:
Discounts:
Illumina® DNA/RNA UD Indexes v3, Set D, Auto (96 Indexes 96 samples)
20141199
Includes one box of 96 Illumina DNA/RNA UD v3 Indexes Set D for labeling 96 samples sufficient for automation
List Price:
Discounts:
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SOMAmer Reagents are small, chemically modified aptamers (8—20 kDa) that bind to three‑dimensional protein structures. Because they are fully synthetic, they provide consistent batch‑to‑batch performance. Their distinct chemistry also allows them to bind non‑immunogenic and epitopes currently not targeted by antibodies. Learn more about SOMAmer technology.
SOMAmer technology (aptamer-based) is used for protein capture. See Protein capture using SOMAmer proteomics in the Figures tab on this page.
Human plasma and serum samples.
The SomaSeq Discovery assay detects ~9500 unique human proteins. This panel can be used to detect proteins in major biological pathways, including those implicated in oncology, neurology, inflammation, and cardiology.
Secondary analysis generates a protein quantification file (ADAT) and DRAGEN QC report.
Read the data normalization technical note for more information on secondary analysis.
Yes, the assay must be automated using the Illumina SomaSeq Automation System.
Advanced chemistry, optics, and informatics combine to deliver exceptional sequencing speed and data quality, outstanding throughput, and scalability.
Reagent kits for the NovaSeq X Series include a reagent cartridge, buffer cartridge, flow cell, lyo insert, pre-load buffer, and library tube strip.
Perform powerful high-throughput sequencing studies with the NovaSeq 6000 System. Match data output and time to results to project needs.
Reagent kits for the NovaSeq 6000 System consisting of ready-to-use pre-filled reagent cartridges and flow cells.
Illumina Connected Multiomics is a powerful and intuitive cloud-based solution that enables multiomic data analysis and visualization at scale.
A rapid, cost-effective workflow for accurate, unbiased detection of the protein-coding transcriptome with precise measurement of strand information.
A fast, integrated workflow for preparing libraries for use in a wide range of sequencing applications.
Reach out for information about our products and services, or get answers to questions about our technology.
