Aviti sequencing is an advanced, high-throughput DNA sequencing technology developed by Element Biosciences. It offers a different approach to reading genetic information, aiming to provide accurate and cost-effective sequencing solutions. This technology empowers a broad range of genomic studies, from fundamental research to clinical applications.
How Aviti Sequencing Operates
Aviti sequencing uses “sequencing-by-binding” (SBB) chemistry, also known as Avidite Base Chemistry (ABC). This approach differs from the “sequencing-by-synthesis” (SBS) method commonly used by other platforms. The process begins with preparing and circularizing DNA libraries. These circularized DNA molecules are amplified on a flow cell using rolling circle amplification (RCA), creating many tightly bound copies called polonies.
Once polonies form, sequencing proceeds in cycles. In each cycle, fluorescently labeled “avidites,” which are multivalent polymerase substrates, bind to the DNA. These avidites are designed to specifically recognize and bind to a particular nucleotide (A, T, C, or G). The binding generates a strong fluorescent signal.
After binding and imaging, the system identifies the nucleotide. A key feature of Aviti’s chemistry is separating base identification from DNA strand extension. Unlabeled nucleotides are then incorporated to extend the strand, and the blocking group is removed, preparing for the next cycle. This separation allows for independent optimization of each step, leading to high accuracy. The process repeats, incrementally reading the DNA sequence.
Unique Features and Advantages
Aviti sequencing offers several distinctive features, providing notable advantages in genomic research. Its exceptional accuracy is a significant benefit. Over 85% of bases sequenced with Aviti achieve a Q40 quality score, and over 90% achieve a Q30 score, demonstrating a very low error rate.
The technology provides substantial cost-effectiveness, with sequencing costs averaging between $2 and $5 per gigabase of data. This makes advanced genomic analysis more accessible to a wider range of laboratories. Rolling circle amplification in Aviti’s process helps eliminate common issues like index hopping and optical duplicates, which can compromise data integrity.
The Aviti system is designed as a benchtop instrument, integrating seamlessly into existing laboratory workflows. It features a dual flow cell layout, allowing two independent sequencing runs simultaneously, providing operational flexibility. It is compatible with standard Illumina library preparation kits, simplifying its adoption. Aviti can sequence longer DNA inserts, up to 2 kilobases, covering complex genomic regions challenging for shorter-read technologies.
Real-World Applications
Aviti sequencing capabilities extend across various applications in genomics, impacting both research and clinical diagnostics. Its high accuracy and cost-efficiency make it suitable for mid-throughput sequencing needs, including targeted sequencing of specific genes or regions. This allows researchers to focus on disease-linked genes or explore population genetic makeup.
In medical research, Aviti facilitates precise genomic analyses and variant detection, important for understanding the genetic basis of conditions. It supports comprehensive RNA sequencing, including single-cell RNA sequencing, to gain insights into cellular states and gene expression patterns. This detailed view can reveal downstream effects of genetic variations or environmental changes.
The technology is applied in whole genome metagenomic sequencing, aiding the study of microbial communities. It supports spatial omics, providing information about gene expression within tissue architecture. The ability to sequence longer inserts benefits applications like immune repertoire analysis and the study of hard-to-sequence genomic regions.