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Metagenomics

Explore microbial communities with streamlined metagenomics workflows for 16S amplicon sequencing, shotgun metagenomic sequencing, and metatranscriptomics. Our solutions support key steps from sample homogenization and nucleic acid extraction through library preparation, automation, QC, and microbiome data analysis.

16S sequencing provides a cost-effective approach for profiling bacterial and archaeal community composition. Shotgun metagenomics enables broader characterization of complex microbial communities, including taxonomic profiling, functional pathway analysis, AMR gene detection, and deeper organism-level insight. For studies focused on microbial activity, metatranscriptomics provides an RNA-based view of which genes are being expressed across the community. 

Need help choosing a metagenomics workflow?

Connect with a Revvity NGS specialist to discuss your sample type, sequencing approach, throughput needs, automation goals, and analysis requirements.
 


For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Choose the right metagenomics sequencing approach

Different metagenomics methods answer different biological questions. Use your study goals, sample type, sequencing depth, and analysis needs to decide whether 16S, shotgun metagenomics, or metatranscriptomics is the best fit.
 

Approach Best for What you learn Revvity workflow fit
16S amplicon sequencing Cost-effective bacterial and archaeal community profiling, especially for larger studies or legacy 16S comparisons. Community composition, relative abundance, diversity metrics, taxonomic profiles. NEXTFLEX 16S kits with V1-V3, V3-V4, and V4 options, flexible multiplexing, and optional Cosmos-Hub analysis.
Shotgun metagenomic sequencing Broader community characterization, functional insight, AMR gene detection, or higher-resolution taxonomic profiling. Taxonomic profiles, functional pathways, AMR/virulence markers, comparative microbiome analysis. NEXTFLEX Rapid XP v2 DNA-Seq Kit for Metagenomics with fast library prep, broad input range, normalization beads, automation, and Cosmos-Hub analysis.
Metatranscriptomics RNA-based analysis of active microbial gene expression in complex communities. Expressed genes, pathway activity, expression changes across conditions. NEXTFLEX directional RNA-seq library prep with ribodepletion options to reduce abundant, uninformative RNA species.
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Extraction to analysis

Metagenomics workflows: 16 sequencing, WGS, and metatranscriptomics

Extraction to analysis: Metagenomics workflows: 16 sequencing, WGS, and metatranscriptomics
Extraction to analysis: Metagenomics workflows: 16 sequencing, WGS, and metatranscriptomics

FAQs

  • How do I choose between 16S and shotgun metagenomic sequencing?

    16S amplicon sequencing is often used for cost-effective bacterial and archaeal community profiling, especially when studying large sample sets or comparing to existing 16S datasets. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing provides a broader DNA-based view of microbial communities and can support taxonomic profiling, functional pathway analysis, AMR gene detection, virulence factor analysis, and detection of non-bacterial organisms depending on sample type, sequencing depth, and analysis method.

  • When should I consider metatranscriptomics instead of DNA-based metagenomics?

    Metatranscriptomics is useful when the goal is to study microbial gene expression rather than only which organisms or genes are present. Because it analyzes RNA, metatranscriptomics can help researchers understand which genes are being expressed across a microbial community under specific biological or environmental conditions.

  • Why is sample preparation important for metagenomics workflows?

    Metagenomics samples can contain diverse organisms, inhibitors, host material, and variable microbial biomass. Consistent sample homogenization, nucleic acid extraction, quantitation, and QC can help reduce workflow variability and improve the quality of downstream library preparation, sequencing, and analysis.

  • Can metagenomics workflows be automated?

    Yes. Automation can support higher-throughput metagenomics workflows by reducing hands-on time, limiting manual touchpoints, and improving consistency across sample preparation and library preparation steps. Revvity automation solutions support multiple NGS workflow steps, including extraction, library preparation, and QC integration.

  • Do I need bioinformatics experience to analyze metagenomics data?

    Metagenomics analysis can be complex, especially for shotgun sequencing and large studies. Select NEXTFLEX kit configurations include access to Cosmos-Hub, which provides version-controlled pipelines and visualization tools for 16S and shotgun metagenomic sequencing data.

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