Illumina has announced shipment of HiscanSQ, an instrument that integrates microarray analysis and next-generation sequencing in a modular design that can evolve with changing research needs.
HiscanSQ is designed for smaller core labs that don't want to purchase separate platforms to run sequencing and microarray experiments; groups that primarily run arrays but are looking to move into sequencing for the first time; and facilities that run both arrays and capillary electrophoresis sequencing and are looking to add high-throughput sequencing.
The HiscanSQ system has two components: the Hiscan Reader, a high-performance array scanner that can also image sequence flow cells; and the SQ Module, an add-on fluidics device that enables genomic-scale sequencing.
The Hiscan Reader functions independently as a high-speed, precision microarray scanner for Illumina's Beadarray products.
With the SQ module, the system switches to perform Illumina's sequencing-by-synthesis (SBS), the most widely adopted next-generation sequencing technology, generating 50Gb of data per paired-end flow cell.
Together, these technologies are said to provide a powerful approach to genetic discovery and validation.
'The idea behind the HiscanSQ platform is to give people flexibility,' said Tristan Orpin, senior vice-president, commercial operations, Illumina.
'For instance, researchers can leverage targeted re-sequencing to follow on their genome-wide association study, or transition between array-based and sequencing-based gene expression,' he added.
Researchers can minimise hands-on time through a number of user-interface features that automate and streamline HiscanSQ workflow including a touch-screen interface, pre-configured plug-and-play reagents, and data-analysis software to allow users to visually integrate sequencing and array data.
