Texas A&M University

Institute for Genome
Sciences and Society

Molecular Genomics Core

General Information

Q: What is the Molecular Genomics Core?

A: The Molecular Genomics Core (MGC) provides genomic services that cover most aspects of genomic studies, which group into three categories:

1) Next-generation sequencing (NGS) services, which include the entire process, from experiment design (if needed) and DNA/RNA isolation to library preparation and sequencing. Moreover, our in-house bioinformatics can help with data analysis. We ensure you get full support from start to finish.

2) Genotyping, Microarray and Optical Genome Mapping (OGM) services, which include DNA isolation to data collection.

3) Self-service options, which include DNA/RNA quality check and quantitative measurement, real-time PCR, ddPCR performance and so on.

Q: Who can use the Genomic Core services?

A: Our services are available to researchers within our institution as well as external academic and commercial entities.

Q: When is MGC open?

A: Our core operates during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, and is closed on TAMU holidays. However, we request that you coordinate a time with one of our staff members to drop off your samples as we can be in meetings, seminars, and other events. Though these situations are occasional, scheduling a sample drop off time allows us to best serve you and your research needs.

Services

Q: What types of library services does the Molecular Genomics Core offer?

A: The MGC offers a wide range of options, including DNA-seq libraries, RNA-seq libraries, and all types of 10x libraries.

DNA-seq libraries include:

1) Whole genome seq library

2) Whole exome seq library

3) ChIP seq library

4) Methyl-seq library

5) Hi-C library

6) Targeted capture

RNA-seq libraries include:

1) Total RNA-seq library

2) mRNA-seq library

3) MicroRNA-seq library

4) 16s, ITS amplicon-based libraries

5) Library for SAR-CoV-2 virus

10x assays include:

1) Single cell/nuclei Gene expression (3’ GEX)

2) Single cell Immune Profiling (5’GEX +DVJ)

3) Single nuclei ATAC-seq

4) Single nuclei Multiome (ATAC+ GEM)

5) 10x Visium gene expression

Q: Does the Molecular Genomics Core provide bioinformatics support?

A: Yes, the MGC offers comprehensive bioinformatics services, including data analysis, interpretation, and visualization.

Q: Does the Molecular Genomics Core provide single cell/nuclei isolation services?

A: Yes. We strongly recommend that customers process single cell/nuclei assays independently. However, if needed, we are available to provide these services.

Q: What do the long-read library sequencing services include?

A: The services include the following:

1) Direct RNA/cDNA sequencing

2) Plasmid sequencing

3) Ultra-long DNA sequencing

4) Ligation sequencing of the influenza whole genome

5) Rapid sequencing of the whole genome of a pathogen

6) Single-cell transcriptomics with cDNA prepared using 10x Genomics.

7) Rapid sequencing of the whole gene of 16S

8) Metagenomic sequencing

Q: Can the Molecular Genomics Core help with experimental design?

A: Absolutely. Our team can assist with experimental design to ensure optimal results and efficient use of resources.

Sample Submission

Q: How should I prepare my samples for submission?

A: Please contact us to receive detailed instructions for sample preparation.

Q: What is the turnaround time for sequencing services?

A: Turnaround times vary depending on the type and scope of the project. Typical turnaround times range from a few days to several weeks.

Q: How do I submit my samples?

A: Samples can be submitted in person or shipped to our facility. Please contact us before you submit your samples, so we are prepared to receive them.

Pricing and Billing

Q: How much do your services cost?

A: Pricing varies based on the specific services and project requirements. Please contact us for a detailed quote.

Support and Troubleshooting

Q: What should I do if I encounter a problem with my data?

A: If you encounter any issues, please contact us via email or phone.  We are here to assist you with any problems or questions you may have.

Education and Training

Q: Do you offer training or workshops on genomic technologies?

A: Yes, we offer regular training sessions and workshops on various genomic technologies. Check our website for upcoming events.

Can I get personalized training for my team?

A: We can arrange personalized training sessions for research teams. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Collaborations

Q: Are you open to collaborative research projects?

A: We welcome collaborative research projects and are happy to discuss potential collaborations. Please contact us to explore opportunities.

Q: How do I propose a collaboration?

A: To propose a collaboration, please reach out to us with a brief description of your project and your specific needs. Our team will review your proposal and get back to you.

Bioinformatics

Q: I am interested in performing Differential Gene Expression (DGE) analysis on my really interesting samples, what do I need to consider?

A: DGE analysis is a simple yet powerful tool to explore significant expression level differences between genes/transcripts and validate their statistical difference. Researcher should keep in mind that to perform any form of DGE, biological replicates are needed per treatment/tissue/gender/mutant/etc. Bioinformatics core requires at least three biological replicates to perform DGE that would meet publication standards; however, we highly recommend 4-5.

TPPC

General Information

Q: Where can I park?

A: Park at any of our locations:

  • REYN 
    • Visitor parking (paid): Lot 72a, Lot 72b
    • University Business parking: Lot 72a, Lot 72b, Lot 18, Lot 98 
    • 30-minute parking available in Lot 18 
  • MREB 
    • Any valid TAMU permit parking 
    • University Business parking (2 hrs) 
    • 15-minute lab space parking 
  • LARR 
    • Any valid TAMU permit parking: Lot 71 
    • University Business parking: Lot 79, Lot 36a 

Q: When is TPPC closed?

A: TPPC is open 24/7 and staffed 9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays. TPPC follows the TAMU holiday schedule for days off. 

Q: How can I use TPPC shared workspace after 5 PM or during the weekends? 

A: You must have access to LARR, REYN, or MREB depending on which building the instrument is located. Please email TPPC@tamu.edu for further information.

Services

Q: Where can I find the full list of services TPPC offers? 

A: Please visit Services and Shared Workspaces

NOTE: Services will be performed by staff from the beginning to the end. For shared workspace, you can either conduct the experiment on your own or request it to be conducted by staff for an extra fee. 

Q: How soon should I make a service request?

A: As soon as possible! For smooth scheduling and service preparation, please give us at least: 

  • 1 week for Blood and urine chemistry analysis with DxC 700 AU 
  • 1 day for Tissue Processing with Leica ASP300S 
  • 1 week for Cryosection with Leica CM1950 
  • 3 days for Staining with Spectra Stainer 

Q: How long does a service request take? 

A: It will depend on scheduling and reagent availability, but in general, 

  • For Chemistry analysis with DxC 700 AU, Tissue processing with ASP300S, Staining with Spectra Stainer
    • If the sample is dropped off in the morning, results or pickup will be ready that afternoon 
    • If the sample is dropped off in the afternoon, results or pickup will likely be ready the next day in the afternoon 
  • Cryosection with Leica CM 1950 depends on sample quantity; please contact TPPC@tamu.edu for estimates. 

Q: Can the tests listed under shared workspace be run by TPPC staff? 

A: Yes, TPPC offers staff assistance with an hourly fee. Please email TPPC@tamu.edu for further information and scheduling. 

Q: How do I request service or reserve shared workspace? 
A: For service requests: 

  1. Create a valid iLab account:
    • Go to Texas A&M Preclinical Phenotyping Core iLab
    • Sign-up with TAMU or your institution’s credentials. 
    • Click the three-bar icon located in the upper left corner, to the left of the Agilent Cross Lab logo. 
    • Go to Manage Groups/My Groups. 
    • If your lab group is not listed under “My Groups,” click Request Group Access and follow the on-screen instructions. 
    • PI or Lab/Group Manager can accept your membership request and add a funding source. Instructions for PI/Manager here
  1. Download the request forms: 
    • Blood and urine chemistry analysis with DxC 700 AU *link to download request form; file can be found in wordpress* 
    • Tissue processing with Leica ASP300S *link to download request form; file can be found in wordpress* 
    • Cryosection with Leica CM 1950 *link to download request form; file can be found in wordpress*. Leica CM 1950 Cryostat is also available for shared workspace. 
    • Slide Staining with Leica HistoCore Spectra Stainer and cover slipper 
  1. Email the completed request form to TPPC@tamu.edu or TPPC staff to schedule the request. 

A: For Shared Workspaces: 

  1. Confirm your AUP – All behavioral tests conducted in TPPC should be listed in your Animal Use Protocol (AUP) 
  1. Create a valid iLab account
    • Go to Texas A&M Preclinical Phenotyping Core iLab
    • Sign-up with TAMU or your institution’s credentials. 
    • Click the three-bar icon located in the upper left corner, to the left of the Agilent Cross Lab logo. 
    • Go to Manage Groups/My Groups. 
    • If your lab group is not listed under “My Groups,” click Request Group Access and follow the on-screen instructions. 
    • PI or Lab/Group Manager can accept your membership request and add a funding source. Instructions for PI/Manager here
  1. Get trained – Get a trained user status by either completing the training offered by TPPC or skipping the training if you already have experience using the instrument. Email TPPC@tamu.edu or TPPC staff to schedule training. 
  1. Building access – Request building access by emailing to TPPC@tamu.edu if you are interested in using shared workspace in LARR. Shared workspace in REYN does not require building access if the reservation is between 8 AM to 5 PM on weekdays. If you are interested in using REYN shared workspace after hours or during the weekends, please also email TPPC@tamu.edu for further information. 
  1. Schedule your reservation – Once your iLab account is set as a trained user, please go to Texas A&M Preclinical Phenotyping Core iLab and click Schedule Equipment tab to create reservations. 

Pricing and Billing

Q: Where can I find the pricing information? 

A: Please go to Pricing

Education and Training

Q: I would like to use Shared Workspace, but I have no experience using it before. Do you offer training? 

A: TPPC offers free training to all instruments listed under Shared Workspace. Please contact TPPC@tamu.edu with when you would like to schedule the training. TPPC is open for training from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays. 

Support and Troubleshooting

Q: I have problems with iLab. 

A: Please email TPPC@tamu.edu