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.
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.
Click on the below to view products for each workflow step.
TruSeq Small RNA Library Prep Kit
Simple, cost-effective solution for generating small RNA libraries directly from total RNA. Supports customizable size selection to investigate any small RNA between 17 to 35 nucleotides.
Library Prep Kit Selector
Determine the best kit for your needs based on project type, starting material, and method or application.
MiniSeq System
Targeted Power. Access proven Illumina quality with this small, robust NGS system. From 1-12 small RNA samples per run.
MiSeq SeriesFocused power. Speed and simplicity for targeted and small genome sequencing. From 1-12 small RNA samples per run.
NextSeq SeriesFlexible power. Speed and simplicity for everyday genomics. Up to 48 small RNA samples per run.
HiSeq Series
Production power. Max throughput and lowest cost for production-scale genomics. Up to 96 small RNA samples per run.
Platform Comparison ToolCompare sequencing platforms and identify the best system for your lab and applications.
Sequencing ReagentsFind kits that include sequencing reagents, flow cells, and buffers tailored to each Illumina sequencing system.
BaseSpace Small RNA App
Aligns reads against four reference databases, and outputs hits to mature miRNAs, isomiRs, and piRNAs.
miRNAs Analysis AppAllows detection of differentially expressed miRNAs between 2 conditions. Performs adapter trimming, read counting, and more.
The Broad’s IGVA genome browser developed by the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard that displays NGS data for complex variant analysis.
Genomatix Pathway System (GePS)Associates single gene or list of genes with annotation data for pathways, diseases, tissues, and small molecules.
iPathway Guide
Differential gene expression, drug interaction, and disease analysis.
BaseSpace Sequence HubThe Illumina genomics computing environment for NGS data analysis and management.
BaseSpace Correlation EngineA growing library of curated genomic data to support researchers in identifying disease mechanisms, drug targets, and biomarkers.
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
Access user-friendly tools that enable researchers to easily analyze, store, and share NGS data.
TruSeq Small RNA Library Prep Kit FAQs
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding small RNA-Seq.
RNA-Seq on the NextSeq Series
A flexible, cost-effective solution for RNA sequencing provides a deeper understanding of biology.
*Data calculations on file. Illumina, Inc., 2015