Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) has launched the rhAmpSeq CRISPR analysis system, which is designed to characterise and quantify the array of on- and off-target genome editing events in CRISPR research projects.
The system uses IDT’s rhAmpSeq technology, which it says enables accurate amplicon sequencing on Illumina next generation sequencing (NGS) platforms. The system consists of design and synthesis of a custom rhAmpSeq CRISPR Panel, a library kit, and access to data analysis through a user-friendly interface. It enables a workflow that allows sample-to-sequencer-to-results in less than a week, IDT claims.
“This new system combines IDT’s leading Alt-R CRISPR genome editing reagents and innovative data analysis technology to provide researchers a complete solution,” said Trey Martin, IDT President. “As genome editing becomes more widespread, it is crucial to validate the editing and identify off-target effects. The rhAmpSeq CRISPR Analysis System addresses and uniquely enables this important researcher need.”
The system includes the company’s rhAmpSeq CRISPR analysis tool, a cloud-based data analysis pipeline that produces graphs and figures. The tool is hosted by BlueBee, a customisable, cloud-based data platform company that provides genomics analysis solutions.
“Bioinformatics is a vital expertise that many labs do not have available. The rhAmpSeq CRISPR Analysis System helps to fill that gap and streamline workflows to get end results quickly and efficiently,” added Martin. “BlueBee is a valuable partner for IDT as their cloud-based genomics analysis solutions provide a secure, robust, scalable, and user-friendly platform for research.”
“Illumina has a great history of partnership with IDT. We are pleased to extend this partnership and together provide researchers with an unparalleled ability to accelerate genome editing projects by translating raw sequencing data into human-readable information,” said Hans Cobben, Vice President of Software Development at Illumina.
Validation of specificity for CRISPR genome editing is important for researchers working toward Investigational New Drug (IND) filings which requires on- and off-target data analysis. The validation is also valuable for drug target discovery and for labs publishing in high impact journals. Off-target effects may have unwanted consequences; minimising the risks associated with off-target genome editing is therefore essential, IDT says.
