Sample requirements

RNA sample requirements and RIN values

Minimum input, concentration, RIN and purity for bulk RNA-seq, low-input workflows and exosomal RNA sequencing. Including what we accept from degraded and FFPE material, where a standard RIN threshold does not apply.

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NGS & Molecular Biology platform

RNA sequencing service sample requirements

RNA can be submitted in RNase-free water, RNA stabilization reagent, or 10mM Tris pH 8.0. Total RNA should be DNA-free, with A260/A280 ≥ 1.8, A260/A230 ≥ 1.8 and RIN ≥ 6. Ship on dry ice. These requirements apply to our NGS & Molecular Biology platform (bulk RNA-seq and RT-qPCR validation).

Concentration note. Values below assume fluorometry. Using spectrophotometry instead (e.g. Nanodrop)? Increase concentrations by roughly 2×.
RNA sequencing services5 services · view full table +
ServiceSample typeRecommended quantityMinimum quantityMinimum concentration
Whole Transcriptome / LncRNA SequencingTotal RNA≥ 3 µg1 µg20 ng/µL
Low-Input RNA SequencingTotal RNA≥ 20 ng1 ng50 pg/µL
mRNA SequencingTotal RNA≥ 500 ng200 ng20 ng/µL
Cells≥ 1×10⁶
Tissue≥ 50 mg10 mg
MetatranscriptomeTotal RNA≥ 4 µg3 µg50 ng/µL
Cells≥ 5×10⁶
Environmental samples≥ 1.5 g
Exosomal RNA SequencingTotal RNA≥ 100 ng20 ng/µL
Cell supernatants≥ 15 mL
Serum, plasma≥ 1 mL

Exosomal RNA Sequencing above covers cargo analysis on our Exosomes & EVs platform. EV isolation and characterization (NTA, Western blot) use the same starting biofluid volumes. Confirm exact volume with us if you need isolation only, without RNA-seq.

Not sure which service fits?

Tell us your sample type and biological question, and we'll scope the right platform.