Gene Expression Profiling Services
Asuragen Services' gene expression profiling services range from whole-genome
profiling on many different organisms, to ultra-sensitive technologies for detection
of single genes. Here, we describe elements common to our gene expression services,
which demonstrate our commitment to flexibility,
data quality and
turn-around time.
Services Available
Whole Genome
-
Affymetrix: Standard 3′ expression,
low-mass 3′ expression, and whole transcriptome analysis (WTA) on a wide
variety of arrays
-
Illumina: Standard 3′ expression on a variety of arrays and DASL®
FFPE profiling
Single gene or gene panels
Method and Staff Qualification
The Asuragen Services team has been profiling RNA since the advent of modern gene
expression profiling methods in the mid-1990s. We have experience with a wide range
of sample types, labeling methods, hybridization and washing protocols, scanning
platforms, normalization schemes, and data analysis. Any new profiling technology
or new operator at Asuragen Services must demonstrate quality performance based
on objective, quantitative measures before either is put in service for client GLP
projects. In the case of gene expression profiling, Asuragen measures the following
parameters against established benchmarks prior to release of a new GLP protocol:
- Sensitivity
- Specificity
- Linear range, dynamic range, or range of quantitation
- Reproducibility
When a new team member joins the analysis team, they are provided hands-on training
with Asuragen-provided test materials. After their training period, data from a
qualification set of samples is evaluated on each operator before they are considered
“qualified” and allowed to process client samples. Operator metrics are tracked
daily, with appropriate contingencies in the event QC metrics fall below specified
levels. We are proud of our team members and they are proud of the work they do
on your studies.
Quality Control
No matter how robust the downstream processes, good data is dependent on sample
quality; consequently, accurate measurement of sample quality is essential before
deciding if a sample merits further analysis. All samples prepared by Asuragen Services
are routinely qualified by spectrophotometry with the NanoDrop spectrophotometer and the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer. Due to the degraded nature of RNA from FFPE tissues,
special quality control measurements are used in place of the Bioanalyzer.
Regardless of downstream application, detailed QC reports including nucleic acid
concentration, RNA integrity (RIN) electropherograms where applicable, and purity are
provided on each sample. For FFPE samples, concentration and QC pass/fail information
is provided. If a sample does not pass a recommended QC metric for analysis, you
will be contacted promptly to discuss possible solutions. These may include replacing
the sample or re-isolating the RNA, excluding the sample from further analysis,
or proceeding at-risk.
Yield:
RNA yield is primarily dependent on the tissue type and mass (or volume) but is
often affected by disease status, chemical treatment, media, preservatives, and
tissue handling.
Integrity:
RNA integrity is dependent on a wide range of factors in the precise handling of
biological materials from collection to RNA isolation. Elimination of the activity
of endogenous endo- or exo-nucleases is vital to preserving RNA integrity and typically
depends on treatment with proper preservative or freezing upon tissue collection.
Asuragen’s rigorous procedures enable Asuragen to be the only service provider to
offer a Data Quality Guarantee:
If, for any reason, a qualified sample does not pass our process control specifications,
we will re-run the sample at no additional charge.
Read more about our
commitment to the best possible data quality, or read about our contributions to
in-process controls and
standardization.
Sample Handling and Processing
All samples are received and entered into the analysis queue under a controlled
SOP to confirm package/sample integrity, appropriate shipping conditions (frozen
samples/dry ice, as appropriate), and individual confirmation of sample identity
against the shipping manifest and electronic
sample submission form and
instructions.
Turn-around Time
Most projects are completed in one to two weeks. If you have a critical time requirement,
we can often meet your need for no additional charge.
Read more about our commitment to prompt turn-around times.
Additional Services Available
Requirements for Gene Expression Profiling
Services
Sample Input Requirements for the services listed above are found in the Sample Submission Form and Shipping Instructions.