To allow medium throughput users to enjoy the efficiencies of the new DNA sequencing machine we have added a new service that can dramatically reduce the overall cost of sequencing. By submitting samples preloaded and dried in microtiter plates, users can reduce to cost of sequencing down to as little as $1.70 per reaction. Currently we can take up to two full microtiter plates (196 samples at a time.
This service is for samples numbers from 16 to 96. The fee for this is $65 set up fee plus $40 for each set of 16 samples. Members of both the Wash U Biology Dept and Danforth Plant Science Center will continue to get a 40% cost share benefit which puts the cost at $39 set up and $24 per run of 16. For Wash U biology and Danforth this works out to the following prices (prices after cost share):
| Number of Samples | Total Cost | Cost per Sample |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 16 | $105 ($63) | $6.56 ($3.94) |
| Up to 32 | $145 ($87) | $4.53 ($2.72) |
| Up to 48 | $185 ($111) | $3.85 ($2.31) |
| Up to 96 | $305 ($183) | $3.52 ($1.91) |
| 144 | $425 ($255) | $2.95 ($1.77) |
| 196 | $545 ($327) | $2.84 ($1.70) |
To partake of this new service you will need to follow these guidelines:
You must submit your samples pre-aliquoted in a microtiter plate
For best results cleaned DNA sequencing reactions should be placed in half-skirt microtiter plates purchased directly from applied biosystems. These plates (product no N8010560) are the best since the samples can be loaded directly onto the machine. However, if these plates are not available you can submit your samples in any microtiter plate but some sample loss may occur during transfer to the ABI plates. Samples should be loaded starting with sample A1 then B1 then C1 etc. Continue to load column 1 then all of column 2 etc. After loading the samples the plate should be dried down for maximum stability of the samples. For members of the Biology Dept there is a plate spin vacuum system available in McDonnell 103 that can be used to dry your samples.
Samples may be submitted uncleaned after the cycle sequencing reaction
If you wish we can use our magnetic bead system to clean your samples. The charge for this is $16 per set of 16, or $75 for one entire plate. Simply indicate that you would like the samples cleaned on the sign-out sheet when you drop off your samples.
Files names will be the names of the wells (A1, A2 etc)
If you wish to have the files named with something else there is an Excel spreadsheet (send request to: sequence@biology.wustl.edu; or download from the Sequenceing server the file “blank_seq_plate_Bigdye1.1.xls” or “blank_seq_plate_Bigdye3.1.xls” based on the version of BigDye you are using) You must fill out the “Plate” tab of the spreadsheet with the names of the samples in the proper location, rename the file with your name and date and place back on the server in your lab data folder.
These dried plates should be wrapped in foil or placed inside a box and submitted through normal channels
We can dry the plate for you if you hand deliver the plate to the sequencing center but this will probably delay results by 1 day. In any case results may take longer than the standard 1 day. While we will endeavor to post your results as quickly as possible, part of the discount in price is your understanding that you are giving us more flexibility in scheduling runs.