16S library prep workflows designed for scalability
NEXTFLEX™ 16S rRNA Amplicon-Seq kits are designed to simplify targeted microbial community profiling from low-input DNA through indexed library generation. Each kit uses a two-PCR workflow with minimal cleanups to amplify the selected 16S variable region and add barcoded primers for sample multiplexing.
Flexible input for microbiome samples
Microbiome studies often involve sample types where DNA yield may be limited or variable. NEXTFLEX™ 16S rRNA Amplicon-Seq kits support 1–50 ng of DNA input, helping researchers build libraries from a practical input range while maintaining a streamlined amplicon workflow.
Multiplexing for larger study designs
For studies with many samples, indexing capacity can be just as important as region selection. NEXTFLEX™ 16S kits support multiplexed library preparation, with options for up to 384 barcoded PCR II primers depending on kit configuration, helping labs pool more samples efficiently across sequencing runs.
Compatible with common sequencing workflows
NEXTFLEX™ 16S libraries are compatible with paired-end 2×300 sequencing on Illumina® and Element® platforms. The kits are designed so custom sequencing primers are not required, simplifying run setup for labs using established amplicon sequencing workflows.
Analysis-ready options
For researchers who want support beyond library preparation, select NEXTFLEX™ 16S kit configurations include Cosmos-Hub® access for DADA2-based 16S analysis with SILVA taxonomy, quality-controlled ASV tables, and interactive visualizations.
Explore our solutions
Featured resources
FAQs
-
How do I choose which 16S rRNA region to target?
Choosing a 16S rRNA region depends on your sample type, taxa of interest, sequencing read length, analysis approach, and whether your results need to be compared with existing studies or previously generated datasets. Commonly targeted regions include V1-V3, V3-V4, and V4, each offering different balances of amplicon length, coverage, taxonomic resolution, and workflow compatibility.
-
Can 16S rRNA amplicon profiling identify microbes to the species level?
16S rRNA amplicon profiling can sometimes support species-level classification, but resolution depends on the targeted variable region, the organism being classified, the quality of the reference database, and the analysis method used. In many studies, 16S is used most confidently for community composition, relative abundance, and diversity analysis at broader taxonomic levels.
-
What factors affect comparability between 16S studies?
Comparability can be affected by the targeted 16S region, primer set, sample preparation method, sequencing read length, reference database, and bioinformatics pipeline. When comparing new data to published studies or legacy datasets, it is important to understand whether similar methods were used across the datasets.
-
Can 16S rRNA amplicon workflows support large sample sets?
Yes. 16S rRNA amplicon workflows are commonly used for studies with many samples because targeted amplicon sequencing can be scaled through sample indexing and multiplexing. NEXTFLEX™ 16S rRNA Amplicon-Seq kits support multiplexing options, with higher-throughput configurations available depending on kit format.
-
What should I consider when working with low-input or low-biomass microbiome samples?
Low-input or low-biomass samples may be more sensitive to extraction efficiency, sample handling, contamination, and amplification bias. Careful experimental design, appropriate controls, and consistent sample preparation methods are important for generating interpretable 16S rRNA amplicon data.
-
Do I need bioinformatics experience to analyze 16S data?
Not necessarily. Some researchers analyze 16S data using their own preferred pipelines, while others may benefit from software-supported workflows. NEXTFLEX™ 16S rRNA Amplicon-Seq kits are available with Cosmos-Hub® options that provide access to 16S analysis pipelines, interactive visualizations, diversity metrics, and report generation.
