The Molecular Genomics Core (MGC) provides DNA and RNA sequencing services for genomic and genetic research to investigators within the NICHD. The MGC is currently operating with three sequencing machines. One Illumina NovaSeq X Plus, that is a high-capacity, production-scale machine; an Illumina MiSeq a smaller, faster machine. The third sequencer is a Pacific Biosciences Sequel single-molecule, 3rd generation long-read sequencer. This array of sequencers provides a suite of scales and capabilities. Our sequencing services include whole genome, whole exome, targeted exome, and gene-specific DNA sequencing, as well as whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq), targeted RNA-Seq, microRNA sequencing, microbiome sequencing, bisulfite sequencing (DNA methylome), ChIP-Seq, Ribotag-Seq, polysome profiling, and ultra-low and single-cell SMARTseq workflows.

The MGC also possesses a 10X Genomics Chromium Single Cell Controller, and Illumina PIPseq setup for generating sequencing libraries from dissociated (fresh/frozen/fixed) single cells/nuclei. We provide the entire suite of single-cell multiomics via gene-expression, ATAC, long-read isoform-seq and surface feature barcoding. 

The MGC also provides substantial solutions in the spatial transcriptomic space using 10X Genomics Visium Cytassist and Xenium machines respectively for sequencing-based and imaging-based spatial assays with fresh-frozen and fixed sections. More recent additions to our spatial capability include instrumentation-free approaches including Illumina Stratamap designed for large capture areas and spatial multiomics via Takara Trekker.

The MGC provides significant support to the labs for assay design, data collection, primary data processing and downstream bioinformatic support and can assist in trouble shooting and sequencing strategies (for example, optimization of targeted exome design). Our mission is to offer accurate and innovative sequencing and bioinformatic tools to facilitate research into the diagnosis, counseling, and treatment of hereditary disorders.

Project discussions are always welcome. Send an email to Vivek.mahadevan@nih.gov and  NICHDDIRMolGenomicsCore@mail.nih.gov