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Services

About Us

Westmead DNA provides a DNA sequencing service to research and clinical groups within the Westmead Research Hub and other institutions in Sydney and across New South Wales.

Westmead DNA, formerly Westmead Hospital DNA Sequencing Facility, has been operating since 1994.

Instrumentation

Westmead DNA has been operating an Applied Biosystems ABI PRISM 3100 Genetic Analyser since August 2002. The instrument features 16 capillaries, can generate 650-800 bases of sequence data from a 2.5-hour run and process over 100 samples per day.

The ABI PRISM 3100 can also be configured for genotyping of DNA microsatellites and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Our Range of Services

DNA Sequencing

Full Service
Beginning with your purified DNA samples we can perform all three steps in the overall process:

1. Sequencing reaction
2. Dye-terminator removal (cleanup)
3. Electrophoresis (run)

Run Only
You may perform your own sequencing reaction and cleanup and have us perform the electrophoresis.

Genotyping

For genotyping, we can perform the electrophoresis of your prepared samples. We have Applied Biosystems GeneScan and GeneMapper software packages. Users may carry out their own customised analysis and print their results right here in our lab. Alternatively, we can provide you with a colour printout of your data.

Please contact us for more details on our genotyping service (e.g. sample requirements, dye-sets, pricing etc.).

Turnaround Time

Samples are processed as soon as possible after receipt. Sequencing turnaround is typically 1-3 working days, in many cases overnight. Samples are needed on-hand by 9:00 am to have a chance of running on that day with results available the following morning.

Genotyping turnaround is generally overnight, although quite often same-day. Conditions apply so contact lab for details.

Results

Results are generated in the form of computer files which can be collected via our website. You will receive an email notification as soon as your results are available for download. Please contact us to set up your account or if you require any assistance. A colour printout can also be supplied (optional).

Two files are generated from each sample - a sequence file (.seq), which can be opened with any text software; as well as an electropherogram file (.ab1), which requires dedicated software for viewing.

Your electropherogram files use IUB codes to identify the sequence.

IUB Codes