Introduction to Small RNA Sequencing
Small noncoding RNAs act in gene silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Small RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) is a technique to isolate and sequence small RNA species, such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Small RNA-Seq can query thousands of small RNA and miRNA sequences with unprecedented sensitivity and dynamic range.
With small RNA-Seq you can discover novel miRNAs and other small noncoding RNAs, and examine the differential expression of all small RNAs in any sample. You can characterize variations such as isomiRs with single-base resolution, as well as analyze any small RNA or miRNA without prior sequence or secondary structure information.
Advantages of Small RNA Sequencing
Generate miRNA sequencing libraries directly from total RNA to understand the role of noncoding RNA.
- Understand how post-transcriptional regulation contributes to phenotype
- Identify novel biomarkers
- Capture the complete range of small RNA and miRNA species
Epigenetic Analysis and Small RNA-Seq
Illumina offers a broad portfolio of epigenetic analysis tools for investigators interested in studying epigenetic modifications and small RNA gene regulation.
Learn MoreRNA Sequencing Considerations
Each RNA-Seq experiment type—whether it’s gene expression profiling, targeted RNA expression, or small RNA analysis—has unique requirements for read length and depth. This bulletin reviews experimental considerations and offers resources to help with study design.
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Honeysuckle, miRNA, and The Flu
Find out how researchers used Illumina sequencing technology to study a honeysuckle-encoded microRNA that targets influenza A viruses.
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Small RNA-Seq Workflow
Illumina sequencing by synthesis (SBS) chemistry is the most widely adopted NGS technology, generating approximately 90% of sequencing data worldwide.*
In addition to our industry-leading data quality, Illumina offers a simple workflow for small RNA and miRNA sequencing that simplifies the entire process, from library preparation to data analysis and biological interpretation.
Access Illumina Quality NGS with the MiniSeq Benchtop Sequencer
Perform small RNA-Seq with a sequencing solution that fits your benchtop, your budget, and your workflow. Discover novel miRNAs and analyze any small noncoding RNA without prior sequence or secondary structure information.
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Related Solutions
Cancer Research: Variant Detection
Small RNA sequencing enables the discovery profiling of miRNAs and other small noncoding RNAs present in the cancer transcriptome at extremely high coverage. Learn more about cancer transcriptome studies.
Complex Disease: RNA Editing
NGS-based profiling enables rapid, high-throughput analysis of the miRNA transcriptome, and can provide insights into complex disease-related RNA editing processes and mutational events. Learn more about complex disease research.
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Additional Resources
Small RNA-Seq Best Practices Webinar
Considerations for small RNA library prep, sequencing, and basic data analysis.
Push-Button Informatics
Illumina bioinformatics tools make it easier to manage, analyze, and interpret large amounts of complex genomic data.
TruSeq Small RNA Library Prep Kit FAQs
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding small RNA-Seq.
RNA-Seq with the NextSeq 550 System
A flexible, cost-effective solution for RNA sequencing provides a deeper understanding of biology.
*Data calculations on file. Illumina, Inc., 2015