NEB launches companion module for Oxford Nanopore Technologies® Direct RNA Sequencing

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New England Biolabs (NEB^®) has launched the NEBNext Companion Module for Oxford Nanopore Technologies Direct RNA Sequencing. The companion module contains the NEB reagents recommended by Oxford Nanopore for execution of the Direct RNA Sequencing workflow (RNA004 sequencing kit), providing a simple and convenient format for scientists performing a wide range of applications where direct sequencing of native RNA is critical.

The companion module contains the recommended components in volumes compatible with the protocol and are lot-qualified together through preparation and sequencing. Featured is the recommended use of Induro^® Reverse Transcriptase, an intron-encoded reverse transcriptase that is used for cDNA synthesis, primarily to reduce RNA secondary structure and improve passage of the RNA molecule through the pore, enhancing sequence yield and quality.

Direct RNA sequencing presents new opportunities versus traditional approaches that rely on sequencing the corresponding cDNA, including applications for identifying RNA modifications, tRNA sequencing, and characterization of mRNA for therapeutic purposes.