DNBSEQ

DNBSEQ is a DNA sequencing technology and platform developed by MGI Tech, a subsidiary of BGI. It uses DNA nanoball (DNB) technology to enable high-density sequencing without relying on conventional bridge amplification. In this approach, DNA libraries are circularized and amplified by rolling circle amplification to form DNA nanoballs, which are then densely arranged on a patterned flow cell for sequencing. The chemistry typically employs sequencing-by-synthesis with fluorescently labeled nucleotides, and signals are captured by optical imaging to determine the base sequence.

The DNBSEQ architecture aims to reduce amplification bias and improve data density by using the DNA nanoballs and patterned nanoarrays. This setup supports high throughput and scalable run configurations, with different instrument models and kit options offering various read lengths and output levels. The platform is designed for compatibility with common bioinformatics pipelines and formats, enabling analysis such as alignment, variant calling, and downstream genomic or transcriptomic interpretation.

Applications supported by DNBSEQ encompass whole-genome sequencing, exome and targeted sequencing, RNA sequencing, metagenomics, and other genomics workflows. It is used in research settings as well as in some clinical and applied projects, depending on regulatory and institutional considerations. Users typically select read lengths and throughput based on project goals, balancing coverage, cost, and turnaround time.

History and context: DNBSEQ represents BGI/MGI’s line of short-read sequencing platforms, positioned as an alternative to other high-throughput short-read systems. The technology emphasizes dense, uniform sequencing surfaces and robust data quality, with ongoing development of reagents, software, and instrument configurations to support diverse genomic applications.