Why is RNA-seq considered superior to other sequencing technologies?
Posted August 30, 2024
Answer
RNA-seq is considered superior to other sequencing technologies because of the many significant advantages it offers.
- Not limited to known genomic sequences: Hybridization-based methods typically require probes that are species-specific. RNA-seq overcomes this limitation with its ability to detect transcripts from any organism, even though with previously uncharacterized genome sequences. This makes it highly effective for detecting novel transcripts, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and other genetic variations.
- Low background noise: It is easy to remove experimental noise in RNA-seq because the cDNA sequences used in the technique can be precisely mapped to the genome. Moreover, problems such as cross-hybridization and poor hybridization, common in microarray experiments, are not a problem in RNA-seq.
- Quantifiable data: RNA-seq data is quantifiable, unlike microarray data, which only displays values relative to other detectable signals on the array. RNA-seq can also accurately measure both very high and very low levels of transcription, overcoming the limitations of other microarrays.
- Greater dynamic range: RNA-seq outperforms microarray-based assays with regards to measuring large differences in gene expression levels. Because its read depth is adjustable, this technique provides a greater dynamic range and more accurate results.
Additional resources
Single Cell RNA Sequencing (scRNA-seq)
Portelite™ Fluorimetric RNA Quantitation Kit*Optimized for Cytocite™ and Qubit™ Fluorometers*