Singular’s G4 Challenges Illumina’s Sequencing Dominance

Overview

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is getting more competitive and exciting. Singular Genomics Systems, based in La Jolla, has introduced the G4 platform, taking on the industry’s leader, Illumina. They’re targeting customers who want something different from Illumina’s well-known systems.

The G4 platform is quite powerful, offering output from 15 to 400 gigabases (Gb). At its peak, it can deliver up to three times more data per hour compared to other benchtop sequencers. For common NGS applications, the run times start at about five hours and can go up to 19 hours for sequencing four complete human genomes. This makes the G4 a strong competitor, setting itself between Illumina’s NextSeq and NovaSeq systems.

Run Times and Outputs

G4 Platform:

• Data output range: 15 to 400 gigabases
• Run times: 5 to 19 hours
• Total output per day: Over 600 Gb

Illumina Systems:

• NextSeq 1000 & 2000: High-intensity applications like single-cell gene expression and whole-exome sequencing
• NovaSeq 6000: Up to 6 terabases, capable of sequencing 48 genomes in about two days

Applications and Target Institutions

I’m seeing the G4 being useful for various institutions, such as:

• Academic labs
• Children’s hospitals
• Commercial labs
• Government research labs
• Medical center labs
• Regional clinical labs

These places can benefit from G4’s fast, flexible cycle times and high data output. Smaller startups and early-stage businesses might also prefer the G4 because of its lower cost and efficient performance.

Innovative Chemistry and System Design

The G4 platform boasts a proprietary four-color sequencing-by-synthesis (SBS) chemistry. This process involves copying a DNA strand one nucleotide at a time with chemically modified bases, ensuring high accuracy. Once read, the sequence moves to the next base, making this method fast and reliable.

Key innovations include:

• Sequencing chemistry: Proprietary polymers, enzymes, and nucleotides.
• Cluster amplification: Ensures high accuracy regardless of genetic input material.
• Paired-end sequencing: Doubles read numbers by sequencing both ends of DNA fragments.
• Detection technology: High-speed and high-resolution imaging for optimal throughput and accuracy.

Commercial Outlook and Competitiveness

Singular has 93 issued patents and patent applications protecting these innovations. They don’t expect IP challenges from Illumina. They also have an agreement with Columbia University for certain patented technologies, but these don’t cover G4’s current chemistry.

Keith Robison from the blog Omics! Omics! mentions that challenging Illumina is tough given their market dominance. However, he notes there’s a chance some customers might use Singular’s offer to negotiate better deals with Illumina.

Future Prospects

Singular is also working on the G4x4, tailored for high-volume customers, and the PX Integrated Solution for multi-omics and high-throughput single-cell analysis. PX is still in the prototype stage, with an early access program expected soon.

This shows Singular’s dedication to expanding its capabilities and meeting diverse customer needs. While taking on Illumina isn’t easy, Singular’s innovative approaches and promising technology might just make a significant impact in the NGS field.

Singular’s G4 Platform vs Illumina’s Systems at a Glance:

In the battle of G4 sequencer vs Illumina sequencing systems, Singular aims to bring flexibility, speed, and cost-effectiveness, making it an enticing choice for various labs and institutions.