Does ServiceXS offer validation of microarray results?
Yes, we offer targeted gene expression analysis with the Fluidigm Dynamic array. This technology enables you to process 88 samples at a time, analyzing up to 96 genes. In one single run, you can generate up to 8,448 data points! Visit our Gene Expression Fluidigm service page or contact us directly for more information.
Does ServiceXS also perform RNA or DNA isolation?
No. ServiceXS does not do RNA or DNA isolations, but we can advise you on isolation kits to use. We recommend the Macherey-Nagel RNA isolation kit. For customers in BeNeLux, ServiceXS recommends products supplied by BIOKÉ.
What is the amount of RNA you need for an experiment and what are the quality requirements?
This differs per type of array/BeadChip and service. Download our sample QC policy for all details concerning sample requirements and QC policy. If your samples are of lower quality or quantity, ServiceXS has validated protocols for processing FFPE samples or lower amount of total RNA within your samples. Contact us for these specialized solutions.
Does ServiceXS offer data analysis for microarray gene expression service?
When you have a standard project, ServiceXS delivers primary data analysis in the report. This consist mainly of data quality controls to check whether the experiment was correctly processed. We no longer offer data analysis for our gene expression arrays.
What turnaround time can ServiceXS guarantee?
This depends on the size of your project, the platform and system we use for the analysis and the number of other projects we are processing at the same time. For the turnaround time of your project, contact us.
ServiceXS is dependent on the delivery of the reagents, arrays. We can either give you an estimation of the turnaround time, or give a guaranteed time after the delivery of reagents and arrays.
The quotation I received mentioned sending spare samples, why is this and what is the consequence if I have no spare samples?
As experience tells us, there will always be samples that do not meet the Quality Control criteria. To guarantee a fast turnaround time, ServiceXS has implemented spare samples in the workflow: might one fail the QC, we can replace this sample so there will be no delays. If you do not have spare samples, ServiceXS cannot guarantee the fast turnaround time. If you do not have spare samples, you will have to communicate this in advance of placing the order.
You offer Illumina as well as Affymetrix: What platform should I choose?
Each platform has its own advantage. Only if you have human or mouse samples, would Illumina be an option. ServiceXS helps you select the best platform for answering your questions: contact us to get unbiased consultation on platform- or array choice.
What is the difference between the Affymetrix conventional cartridge system and the GeneTitan instrument?
Affymetrix offers for the GeneChip® Human U133 2.0 plus, the 430 Mouse and 230 Rat arrays also plate arrays compatible with the GeneTitan™ instrument. The major difference is that you have a different format with the GeneTitan. This is a plate array system, consisting of 16, 24 or 96 arrays with the same content as the conventional cartridge system, but without the MisMatch probes. For more information, contact us or visit the Affymetrix website.
Which type of Illumina Beadchip should I use for my project?
The different Illumina BeadChips available are:
HumanHT-12 : high throughput BeadChip that processes 12 samples simultaneously.
MouseWG-6: whole genome BeadChip that processes 6 samples simultaneously.
MouseRef-8: reference sequence BeadChip that processes 8 samples simultaneously.
The RatRef-12 is no longer available.
The difference between the MouseRef-8 and the MouseWG-6 is the content. Where the Ref-8 contains approximately 25 thousand probes, the WG-6 provides the researcher over 45 thousand probes. The latter contains the full set of MouseRef-8 content, with additional probes from the RefSeq, MEEBO and RIKEN databases.