Whole Genome Bisulphite Sequencing (WGBS)

Comprehensive DNA Methylation Profiling

Introduction and Workflow

  • Whole Genome Bisulphite Sequencing (WGBS) maps DNA methylation patterns across an entire genome at single-base resolution, offering insights into transcriptional activity and gene regulation.
  • The workflow includes DNA isolation, followed by treatment with sodium bisulfite (Gold standard method). This treatment converts unmethylated cytosines into uracils, which are subsequently amplified by PCR and sequenced.
  • In bioinformatics analysis, sequencing data is aligned to a reference genome using advanced bioinformatics tools to determine the methylation status at CpG, CHG, and CHH sites.
  • Valuable in epigenetic research for its ability to provide high-resolution insights into the regulatory mechanisms of the genome, offering a deeper understanding of cellular functions and molecular pathways.

Advantage

  • Provides high-resolution mapping of DNA methylation patterns across the genome, including CpG, CHG, and CHH sites, offering detailed insights into epigenetic modifications.
  • Enables precise quantification of methylation levels, distinguishing between methylated and unmethylated cytosines based on read counts.
  • This technique can detect effective CpG sites reaching over 75% of all CpG sites in the entire genome.
  • Provides valuable insights into cell fate determination, genetic reprogramming, gene regulation, developmental epigenetics, disease mechanisms, and the identification of new epigenetic markers and therapeutic targets.
WGBS Workflow

Applications of Whole Genome Bisulphite Sequencing (WGBS)

  • DNA Methylation Profiling- Provides a comprehensive map of DNA methylation across the entire genome, revealing methylation patterns associated with gene regulation, epigenetic modifications, and cellular differentiation.
  • Cancer Epigenetics- Identifies aberrant DNA methylation patterns in cancerous tissues, which can help in understanding tumorigenesis, detecting early biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, and developing epigenetic-based therapies.
  • Developmental Biology- Analyzes changes in DNA methylation during development, offering insights into how epigenetic modifications influence cell differentiation and tissue development.
  • Genetic and Epigenetic Research- Explores the interplay between genetic sequences and epigenetic modifications, enhancing our understanding of how genetic variations and environmental factors interact to affect gene expression and contribute to complex diseases.
  • Disease Mechanisms- Uncovers epigenetic alterations associated with various diseases, including neurological disorders and cardiovascular diseases, helping in the identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Service Specifications

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Sample Requirement

Samples sources including Genomic DNA of human, animals, plants and microorganisms.

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Sequencing Platform

Illumina NovaSeq 6000/ NovaSeq X
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Deliverables

  • The original sequencing data
  • Experimental results
  • Bioinformatics and Data Analysis Report
  • Details of WGBS Sequencing (customizable)