Metagenomics

Metagenomic, also called WGS metagenomics, provides an unbiased way to study microbial communities. In contrast to amplicon-based analysis, there is no amplification and no pre-selection of the targeted DNA. This can be an advantage, but can also be problematic, e.g. for samples with high levels of plant material. 

Metagenomics sequencing provides more detailed information and offers the analysis of gene functions. However, the sequencing is usually also 10-20x more expensive compared to amplicon sequencing and the processing and data handling requires more expertise and more time for analysis. 

Sequencing

We use external sequencing providers for metagenomic sequencing. With our expertise we can select the best provider for you with respect to DNA quality and sequencing cost. In additon, we take care of the ordering and sample handling.

Bioinformatics

Metagenomic processing and analysis requires bioinformatic expertise and powerful hardware. We can run the base processing for you or perform the complete analysis including statistics and visualisation. 

Metagenome Explorer

Coming soon! 

We develop a software tool that allows you to explore and mine your metagenomic data on your own. Stay tuned and follow us:

For pricing and example projects, see Pricing section.

Metagenomic Sequencing

Sequencing of metagenomic samples of microbial communities can be done with different depth. The sequencing depth should depend on the complexity of the community and should be adapted to your question. If you have no further information, 40-50mio read pairs with 2x150bp length might be a good option. 

We have experience with low biomass samples and have specialized sequencing providers that can also handle problematic samples with DNA concentration below 1 ng/μl.

The prices usually range from 150-250€ per sample. For price examples see below.

Bioinformatics Metagenomics

We offer different depth of bioinformatic processing and analysis:   

Base bioinformatic processing

The Base package includes our standard metagenomic processing and delivers assembled contigs, predicted and functionally annotated genes and prokaryotic MAGs (metagenome assembly genomes).

Pricing ranges from 50-150€ per sample, depending on your project size.

Custom bioinformatic processing and analysis

The Advanced package includes everything from Base package and additionally includes custom analysis. Are you interest in the abundance of specific gene functions or metabolic pathways? We can help you to identify your targets, perform statistics and deliver custom visualisation.

Depending on your project and questions the workload might vary a lot. Price estimates can be given after a short meeting. You can book your meeting here.


Pricing

Sequencing prices:

Prices vary depending on sequencing depth and DNA concentration and total amount:

  • Good amount of DNA and 40-50mio Illumina read pairs 2×150: ~200€ per sample
  • Low amount of DNA and complex community with sequencing of 100mio read pairs: ~300€ per sample 
  • Nanopore sequencing can complement the common short reads. 

 

Bioinformaic prices:

  • Base processing: 50-150€ per sample
  • Custom projects: depending on workload 2000-10,000€