{
  "id": 12463701,
  "title": "Expanding the Possibilities of Next-Generation Sequencing",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/expanding-the-possibilities-of-next-generation-sequencing",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-10-06T15:10:45.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "GEN Biotechnology",
    "slug": "gen-biotechnology",
    "url": "https://www.genengnews.com/sponsored/expanding-the-possibilities-of-next-generation-sequencing/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Sequencing by expansion (SBX), the technology powering Roche's AXELIOS 1 platform, offers a novel approach to sequencing challenges posed by complex genomic features. This method physically expands the space between encoded bases before detection, creating a clearer signal for more accurate sequencing. SBX employs a polymerase that converts target DNA or RNA molecules into longer surrogate polymers, known as Xpandomers, which can be measured using a reusable complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. This design results in greater physical separation between encoded bases and enables high signal-to-noise reporters for precise single-molecule sequencing with near real-time base calling and analysis.\n\nThe AXELIOS 1 platform's flexibility extends beyond its chemistry, accommodating various research needs. Researchers can adjust batch sizes and read lengths according to their experimental requirements, with read lengths ranging from ~200bp to ~1500bp. The platform supports end-to-end, same-day whole genome sequencing (WGS) while providing near real-time data access during runs. SBX has been successfully tested in various applications, including whole genome sequencing (WGS), RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial analysis, and methylation studies. The AXELIOS 1 Platform sequences Xpandomer molecules generated from libraries prepared using the AXELIOS 1 DNA Library Prep Kit, with data analyzed using the no-cost, open-source XOOS bioinformatics analysis suite.\n\nBy combining a new sequencing chemistry with flexible read lengths, batch sizes, and research applications, AXELIOS 1 aims to expand the range of genomic questions researchers can address. As sequencing technology continues to evolve, these capabilities could enable scientists to investigate previously challenging genomic regions, ultimately building a more comprehensive foundation for biological discovery.",
  "summary": "Sequencing by expansion (SBX) and Roche’s AXELIOS 1 platform introduce a new approach to single-molecule sequencing, designed to give researchers flexibility across sequencing workflows. The post Expanding the Possibilities of Next-Generation Sequencing appeared first on GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}