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Paradigms Shifts in Sequencing

Paradigms Shifts in Sequencing

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The compromise between sequencing speed and capacity has impacted research for years. To combat this conundrum, in 2018, MGI launched the high-throughput sequencer, DNBSEQ-T7 that can output 7Tb of high-quality data within 24 hours.

Since its launch, over 400 T7 units have been placed internationally. The T7 supports diverse applications along with large-scale genomics projects, including a Brazilian national genomic sequencing project, the National Genome Project in Indonesia and the Genomics Thailand Initiative.

Now, the next-generation powerhouse sequencer, T7+, will continue the transformative change in large-scale genomics. “We took everything scientists loved about the T7 and added breakthrough improvements to guarantee both cutting-edge performance and reliability,” said Duncan Yu, president at MGI. “The T7+ has speed, flexibility, scale and ease of use, while dramatically reducing sequencing costs.”

The T7+ tackles the common frustrations researchers face with traditional sequencers – the complexity, slow speeds, and high costs – to enhance the user experience. Designed to be as simple as using a smartphone, the compact T7+ is a quantum leap from conventional sequencers. Users no longer have to choose between features, they can have it all and generate 14Tb+ data in 24 hours, making high-volume genomics truly practical.

Key Design Breakthroughs

T7+ sequencer from MGI
T7+ sequencer from MGI

The MGI engineering team implemented four key breakthroughs in the T7+. The ultra-dense triangular array maximizes the number of DNA nanoballs (DNB) on the flow cells without compromising imaging speed while significantly boosting throughput. In addition, high-speed DNB preparation via the proprietary RiCT (RCA in coiled tubing) technology, combined with smart sensors, dynamically adjusts flow rates to achieve high efficiency under varying conditions.

A proprietary TDI camera pairs with a high-performance stage, accelerating scanning by 50%. Lastly, a multidimensional optimized base calling algorithm accelerates the generation of sequencing output files by 4 times to deliver data.

Transforming the Workflow

The entire process is simplified with MGI’s 7-in-1 design eliminating separate DNB prep steps. Users get all the benefits of DNBSEQ technology – great accuracy, low duplication, minimal index hopping – without any extra hassle.

A modular reagent cartridge design minimizes manual pipetting and cold storage requirements and contains RFID auto-recognition ensuring error-free setup for different applications. Plus, the smart control center displays everything at a glance, making theT7+ user-friendly and accessible even to first-time users.

Purpose-built for high-throughput sequencing scenarios, the T7+ is well suited for core labs, commercial sequencing providers, or any centralized testing facilities, and ideal for large-scale research projects such as national population studies, multi-omics projects, and clinical research. It is also applicable in specialized fields such as agricultural genomics (breeding programs) and environmental genomics.

A Complete Line meets all Applications

MGI provides one of the industry’s most comprehensive line-up of sequencers in the industry, offering both short-read and long-read platforms under their “SEQ ALL” approach. The T7+ is the top-of-the-line, short-read workhorse powering labs with massive sequencing power.

A perfect pairing for a complete picture is the T7+ and CycloneSEQ G400-ER (long-read) platforms. The T7+ delivers highly accurate and affordable large-scale sequencing, while the G400-ER supplies super-long, megabase-scale reads. Together, these two platforms unlock game-changing capabilities such as flawless genome assemblies, the ability to crack difficult genomic regions during large population-scale, multi-omics studies, or the performance of more comprehensive cancer profiling to pinpoint diagnosis of rare diseases even in tricky regions.

Importantly, the T7+ solves today’s three biggest headaches in sequencing – the speed-vs-capacity trade-off, complexity in addition to cost. Building on the strengths of the original DNBSEQ-T7, the T7+ brings powerful upgrades in speed, scalability, and performance. It is not just another sequencer. The T7+ is the solution labs have been waiting for. International shipments begin in late 2025.