mRNA-seq

Uncover a complete view of gene activity from expressed transcripts

What is mRNA-seq?

Messenger RNA sequencing (mRNA-seq) is a specialized form of RNA sequencing that focuses on analyzing messenger RNA, the molecules that carry genetic instructions from DNA to ribosomes for protein production. By sequencing mRNA, researchers can capture a snapshot of which genes are actively expressed in a given sample and to what extent. The process typically involves isolating mRNA—often by selecting transcripts with poly(A) tails—then converting it into complementary DNA (cDNA), preparing sequencing libraries, and generating data through next-generation sequencing platforms. Bioinformatics analysis is then used to quantify gene expression levels, detect alternative splicing events, and identify novel or aberrant transcripts. mRNA-seq provides valuable insights into cellular activity and regulation, making it a widely used method for comparing healthy versus diseased states, studying developmental processes, evaluating responses to treatments, and discovering potential biomarkers.

At Admera Health, we offer end-to-end mRNA-seq services, from library preparation and high-throughput sequencing to advanced bioinformatics analysis, helping researchers generate high-quality, reliable gene expression data for a wide range of applications.

mRNA-seq Key Features & Applications

high sensitivity

Detect low-abundance transcripts for deeper biological insights

High sensitivity

high resolution whole transcriptome capture

Identify Novel Transcripts

Identify previously unannotated isoforms, fusion genes, and alternative splicing events

immunology

Immunology

Study immune cell activation, cytokine signaling, and response to infection

Biomarker discovery

Identify diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic markers

Biomarker Discovery

Frequently Asked Questions

Sending samples? See our RNA sample submission guidelines for best practices on sample preparation, packaging, and shipment for the highest quality results.

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  • We accept a wide variety of sample types, including FFPE, fresh frozen tissue, blood, cell pellets, and purified RNA. For purified RNA, we require a minimum concentration of 50 ng/µL in a total volume of 50 µL. We recommend providing a higher input amount for low-abundance transcripts. Please submit a completed sample submission form with your shipment.
    See Sample Submission Guidelines here.

  • If your sample does not meet our quality control standards at any point in the workflow, we will contact you immediately. We will discuss the specific failure point and provide options, which may include re-submitting the sample, proceeding with a modified workflow, or canceling the project. We believe in transparency and working with you to achieve the best possible outcome.

  • Our standard turnaround time is typically 10-15 business days, though this can vary depending on the sample type, project complexity, and required sequencing depth. Expedited services are available upon request. Please contact us for a detailed quote and timeline specific to your project.

  • Our workflows are designed to maximize data quality from start to finish. We use specialized protocols for challenging samples like FFPE to ensure high-quality RNA extraction. During library preparation, we use Unique Dual Indexes (UDIs) to minimize index hopping and Unique Molecular Identifiers (UMIs) to correct for PCR duplicates, ensuring accurate quantification. We also perform stringent quality control checks at every step to guarantee reliable and usable data.

  • Yes. We specialize in handling challenging and low-input samples, including FFPE, blood, fresh frozen tissue, and cell pellets. Our optimized workflows for FFPE samples include a high-yield extraction protocol with improved proteinase K digestion and DNase treatment to minimize DNA and rRNA contamination. This ensures a high success rate and provides the necessary input quality for robust downstream analysis.

  • Our bioinformatics services are comprehensive and customizable. For Bulk RNA-seq, we provide trimming and QC, mapping, counting, normalization, and differential expression analysis (DE). For projects involving non-model organisms, we offer de novo transcriptome assembly. Additional analysis options include alternative splicing detection, gene fusion analysis, and functional enrichment analysis (MA-plot, PCA, heatmaps, volcano plots, and GO enrichment).

Get the Most out of Your Study

Maximize your project’s potential with advanced analysis solutions. Our team of expert bioinformaticians curate pipelines tailored to your project’s experimental design.

Data Analysis Services

See RNA-seq in Action

Admera Health provides comprehensive support for all projects, and delivers publication-ready data. Discover how researchers are using Admera Health to advance their Transcriptomics studies.

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