WGS library preparation solutions
Your whole genome sequencing hub
Explore WGS library preparation solutions for a range of sample types, input amounts, fragmentation strategies, and throughput needs, including genomic DNA, cell-free DNA, shotgun metagenomics, and high-throughput low-pass WGS.
Genomic DNA WGS library prep
Genomic DNA WGS library preparation converts DNA into sequencing-ready libraries while preserving genome-wide representation. Depending on the workflow, genomic DNA may be mechanically fragmented before library prep or fragmented enzymatically as part of an integrated workflow.
These workflows support flexible WGS library construction for researchers working with genomic DNA inputs, different fragmentation strategies, and varying throughput requirements.
Cell-free DNA WGS library prep
Cell-free DNA WGS library preparation is designed for fragmented, low-input DNA samples that do not require additional mechanical or enzymatic fragmentation. Because cfDNA is already highly fragmented, library prep workflows must support efficient conversion of short DNA fragments into sequencing-ready libraries.
This workflow supports WGS applications where input amount, fragment recovery, and library complexity are important considerations.
Shotgun metagenomic WGS
Shotgun metagenomic WGS enables analysis of microbial communities by sequencing the full genetic content of complex or mixed samples. Unlike targeted 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, shotgun metagenomics can support both taxonomic profiling and functional analysis.
This workflow can combine enzymatic library preparation with analysis support to help streamline shotgun metagenomic sequencing.
Low-pass WGS for agrigenomics
Low-pass WGS enables cost-effective genome-wide analysis across large numbers of plant or animal samples. By sequencing at lower coverage across the genome, this approach helps make genome-wide screening more scalable across high-sample-volume studies.
This workflow is designed to support scalable low-pass sequencing for agricultural and population-level research.
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FAQs
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How do I choose the right WGS library prep kit?
The right WGS library prep kit depends on your sample type, DNA input amount, fragmentation strategy, throughput needs, and sequencing application. For example, cell-free DNA workflows require a different approach than mechanically fragmented genomic DNA, enzymatic fragmentation workflows, shotgun metagenomic WGS, or high-throughput low-pass WGS.
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What is the difference between mechanical and enzymatic fragmentation for WGS library prep?
Mechanical fragmentation physically shears genomic DNA before library preparation, giving researchers a separate fragmentation step that can be optimized before end repair, adapter ligation, and amplification. Enzymatic fragmentation uses enzymes to fragment DNA as part of the library prep workflow, which can simplify setup, reduce equipment needs, and support scalable WGS library preparation.
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Does cell-free DNA require fragmentation before WGS library prep?
No. Cell-free DNA is already present as short fragments, often enriched around mononucleosome-sized lengths, so additional mechanical or enzymatic fragmentation is not required. Cell-free DNA library prep workflows are designed to efficiently convert low-input fragmented DNA into sequencing-ready libraries while preserving library complexity.
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When should I consider low-pass WGS?
Low-pass WGS is useful when researchers need genome-wide information across large numbers of samples at lower sequencing depth. It is commonly used in agrigenomics and population-scale studies where scalable genotyping, imputation-based analysis, trait association research, or genetic diversity analysis are important.
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Is shotgun metagenomic WGS the same as 16S rRNA sequencing?
No. Shotgun metagenomic WGS sequences genetic material across complex microbial communities, supporting both taxonomic and functional analysis. 16S rRNA sequencing is a targeted amplicon approach that profiles microbial communities using regions of the 16S rRNA gene. The best choice depends on the level of resolution and type of information needed.
