Sequencing at Sea - Unlocking the Power of the Genome With eDNA and NextSeq(TM) 2000

Rhea-AI Summary

Illumina and Minderoo Foundation announced a $40M AUD partnership aimed at enhancing marine conservation through genomics. This collaboration, initiated in 2022, will span three years and focuses on leveraging scientific methods to deepen understanding of marine ecosystems. A key component includes the installation of a NextSeq™ 2000 Sequencing System aboard the research vessel Pangaea Ocean Explorer. This advanced DNA sequencer will facilitate the study of environmental DNA (eDNA), allowing researchers to better track biodiversity and assess population health within marine environments. The initiative underscores a commitment to conserving marine biodiversity, crucial for national economies and environmental health.

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 24, 2023 / In 2022, Illumina and Minderoo Foundation announced a $40M AUD partnership to leverage the power of genomics to accelerate scientific understanding of marine systems and help marine conservationists make informed decisions. The three-year partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to conserving marine biodiversity and understanding the changing marine ecosystems on which people and national economies depend.

As part of this broad research and development partnership, Minderoo Foundation installed a NextSeq™ 2000 Sequencing System, one of Illumina's most advanced high-throughput benchtop DNA sequencers, aboard onboard the research vessel, Pangaea Ocean Explorer.

Surveillance of marine ecosystems using environmental-DNA (eDNA) can increase the resolution and sensitivity with which scientists understand biodiversity and can measure change. A cup of seawater can contain millions of pieces of eDNA and cells, providing a snapshot of the life forms present and, potentially, information on their population size and health. Learn more about the Illumina-Minderoo partnership here.

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Spokesperson: Illumina
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SOURCE: Illumina

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https://www.accesswire.com/750943/Sequencing-at-Sea--Unlocking-the-Power-of-the-Genome-With-eDNA-and-NextSeqTM-2000

FAQ

What is the purpose of the Illumina and Minderoo Foundation partnership?

The partnership aims to advance marine conservation using genomics to better understand and monitor marine ecosystems.

How much funding has been committed to the Illumina and Minderoo partnership?

The partnership has a funding commitment of $40M AUD.

What technology is being used in the marine research project?

The project utilizes the NextSeq™ 2000 Sequencing System for advanced DNA sequencing aboard the Pangaea Ocean Explorer.

What is environmental DNA (eDNA)?

Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to genetic material collected from the environment, such as seawater, which helps assess biodiversity and ecosystem health.

How long will the Illumina and Minderoo partnership last?

The partnership is set to last for three years, focusing on marine biodiversity research.