Sequencing by Synthesis (SBS) Technology
Introduction to SBS Technology
Illumina sequencing technology, sequencing by synthesis (SBS), is a widely adopted next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology worldwide. Illumina sequencing instruments and reagents support massively parallel sequencing using a proprietary method that detects single bases as they are incorporated into growing DNA strands.
SBS Chemistry
A fluorescently labeled reversible terminator is imaged as each dNTP is added, and then cleaved to allow incorporation of the next base. Since all 4 reversible terminator-bound dNTPs are present during each sequencing cycle, natural competition minimizes incorporation bias.1
The end result is true base-by-base sequencing that enables accurate data for a broad range of applications. The method virtually eliminates errors and missed calls associated with strings of repeated nucleotides (homopolymers).
Further Advantages of SBS Technology
Illumina sequencing by synthesis technology supports both single-read and paired-end libraries. SBS technology offers a short-insert paired-end capability for high-resolution genome sequencing, as well as long-insert paired-end reads for efficient sequence assembly, de novo sequencing, and more.
The combination of short inserts and longer reads increases the ability to fully characterize any genome.
Illumina Sequencing Introduction
This overview describes major sequencing technology advances, key methods, the basics of Illumina sequencing chemistry, and more.
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Sequencing Instrument Portfolio
Illumina offers innovative sequencing systems that deliver exceptional data quality and accuracy, at the scale you need.
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SBS Technology Breakthroughs
1-Channel SBS
The Illumina semiconductor sequencing method, also known as 1-channel SBS, couples sequencing by synthesis chemistry with complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. This allows for low instrument costs and a small instrument footprint, all while maintaining the high data accuracy of SBS.
Learn More About Semiconductor Sequencing
2-Channel SBS
Find out how this recent evolution of SBS technology enables faster sequencing than the prior version of Illumina SBS technology, with the same high data accuracy.
Using SBS Technology to Solve Problems
See how researchers are applying Illumina sequencing technology in these areas:
Sequencing Techniques
Explore a variety of methods powered by SBS, from whole-genome to RNA sequencing and more. Find comprehensive workflow solutions.
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Sequencing Reagents
Find Illumina instrument-specific sequencing kits, reagents, flow cells, and more.
Maximum Throughput
See how patterned flow cell technology dramatically increases sequencing data throughput.
References
- Bentley DR, Balasubramanian S, Swerdlow HP, et al. Accurate Whole Human Genome Sequencing using Reversible Terminator Chemistry. Nature. 2008; 456 (7218): 53–59.