Genomics

Sensitive, multiplex molecular analysis technologies are driving the development of personalized medicines.  Accurate detection of low-frequency mutations, patient pharmacogenomic genotype, and gene expression signatures can be key to matching a patient with an effective, targeted therapy.

Flagship offers a variety of DNA sequencing and gene expression services, utilizing a variety of innovative platforms in our CLIA-certified, CAP-accredited laboratory. We provide assays that support you from basic discovery through clinical validation, and we will work with you to customize any assay for your target of interest.

Sample Preparation

Flagship conducts extraction and purification of DNA, RNA, mRNA and MicroRNA from a wide range of sample types, including:

  • Peripheral/Whole Blood
  • Fresh and Frozen Tissue
  • FFPE Tissue
  • Bone Marrow Aspirates
  • PBMC
  • Buccal Cells (DNA)
  • Saliva (DNA)
  • Hair Follicles (RNA)

Genome Sequencing

Flagship has established a flexible, high-capacity Next Generation Sequencing capability for conducting whole genome sequencing (WGS). Flagship utilizes the most advanced systems from Illumina®, including the NovaSeq™ 6000 and NovaSeq™ X Plus. Flagship offers a baseline of standard panels that can be customized based upon customer need.

Gene Expression Analysis

Flagship uses the NanoString nCounter® Pro Analysis System to conduct gene expression studies. This system provides a robust method for multiplexing up to 800 targets (DNA, proteins, RNA, miRNA, CNV, and more) in a single reaction with no amplification and counts targets digitally, delivering superior performance and reproducibility. nCounter is compatible with most sample types. It produces high quality data that would otherwise be difficult to produce with technologies that rely on high sample input. Consistent results can even be generated for longitudinal studies with a high degree of confidence on clinical-grade samples.

Flagship offers a wide range of standard panels that can be customized based upon customer need.

Spatial Biology

Flagship offers the ability to evaluate gene expression within the spatial context of the biological sample through the use of the NanoString GeoMx® Digital Spatial Profiler. The GeoMx® DSP combines standard immunofluorescence techniques with digital optical barcoding technology to perform spatial, highly multiplexed, tissue profiling. Flagship offers a wide range of standard panels that can be customized based upon customer need.

qPCR / Sanger Sequencing

Complementing its extensive genomic sequencing capabilities, Flagship also offers targeted platforms that are the most efficient and effective choice in select, focused applications.

Flagship achieves detection and quantification of molecular targets using the Applied Biosystems ViiA™ 7 Real-Time PCR system. Hundreds of customizable and predefined TaqMan™ Array Microfluidic Cards are available, containing preloaded TaqMan™ Gene Expression or TaqMan™ MicroRNA Assays.

Flagship provides gold-standard Sanger sequencing of biological specimens using the Applied Biosystems®️️ 3730xl Genetic Analyzer with ERIC certification for the IGHV mutation assay. The Sanger method is optimal for smaller-scale projects and for validation of deep sequencing results. It has the advantage over short-read sequencing technologies in that it can produce DNA sequence reads of > 500 nucleotides and maintains a very low error rate with accuracies around 99.99%.