What is LuminUltra’s policy for non-sequenceable samples?

LuminUltra’s first step when performing Next Generation Sequencing is to complete a Total Prokaryote assay to establish concentration values to determine the sample’s viability for NGS analysis, wherein samples below a concentration of 10^4 cells/sample are unlikely to provide sufficient intact sequenceable material.

If the sample lacks sufficient intact genetic material to complete Next-Generation Sequencing, LuminUltra will complete the following:

1. Inform the customer there was insufficient intact sequenceable material to complete an NGS analysis.
2. Invoice the customer the following for each sample submitted:
   • Sample Purification (50-50-10068)
   • GeneCount Total Prokaryote Assay – qPCR (50-50-10020)
3. Share the Total Prokaryote result (s) with the customer.

If there was inhibition present in the sample preventing Next-Generation Sequencing, LuminUltra will complete the following:

1. Inform the customer that the sample reported a null result for Next-Generation Sequencing.
2. Invoice the customer the following for each sample submitted:
   • Sample Purification (50-50-10068)
   • GeneCount Total Prokaryote Assay – qPCR (50-50-10020)
3. Share the Total Prokaryote result(s) with the customer.

Several factors can render a sample non-sequenceable for Next Generation Sequencing:

• Insufficient or degraded DNA/RNA: Sequencing requires a certain minimum amount and quality of DNA or RNA for successful sequencing. The sequencing process could be unsuccessful if the sample contains low amounts of DNA/RNA or if the nucleic acids are highly degraded.
• Contaminants or inhibitors: Samples may contain contaminants or inhibitors that interfere with sequencing. For example, chemicals or impurities present in the sample can inhibit the enzymatic reactions involved in library preparation and sequencing, leading to poor-quality or non-sequenceable data.