Pacific Biosciences of California (PACB) announced that Novogene has agreed to purchase 10 Sequel systems for whole genome sequencing, Iso-Seq annotation and targeted sequencing services.

PacBio’s sequencing systems are based on its unique Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT®) technology, and provide an unmatched depth of genetic information through exceptionally long sequencing reads, uniform coverage, and the highest consensus accuracy available today.

The technology allows scientists to go beyond fragmented draft genomes and generate the most comprehensive de novo assemblies. 

Ruiqiang Li, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of Novogene commented: “Novogene is a global leader in de novo sequencing and assembly today, and our purchase of ten PacBio Sequel Systems will advance our ability to produce even higher quality and more complete de novo genome assemblies.

The addition of these systems, and the ability to sequence large genomic libraries that yield mean read lengths of 10-18kb, also will enable us to meet the growing demand for SMRT Sequencing and to deliver more cost-effective de novo sequencing and assembly solutions for our customers. With this purchase, we expect to have the world’s largest SMRT Sequencing facility.”

Michael J. Hunkapiller, Ph.D., Chairman and CEO of PacBio added: “We are delighted to receive such a significant endorsement of our technology from a world-class sequencing facility.

This follows a recent trend by leading institutions around the world investing in multiple SMRT Sequencing systems— oftentimes to complement their existing PacBio RS II instruments. Moreover, it underscores that adoption of SMRT Sequencing to answer some of the most challenging questions in genomics and medicine is increasing steadily.” 

Novogene will announce its purchase of the PacBio Sequel systems today at its workshop at the Plant and Animal Genome XXV Conference in San Diego, where Novogene will be discussing how SMRT technology and other cutting edge sequencing technologies help improve the results of de novo assemblies for a variety of species.