This video introduces RO's new SPX (Sequencing by Expansion) technology, a novel short-read sequencing method. SPX works by synthesizing "expandimers," complimentary DNA analogs with an accordion-like backbone, which are then threaded through 8 million pores on a flow cell, detecting current deviations for sequence readout with precise, base-by-base control. The technology's key differentiator is its unparalleled speed, capable of generating billions of reads in hours and completing an entire workflow, from library prep to variant calling, in under six and a half hours. Accuracy is reported as highly competitive, though direct cost information is pending. The speaker expresses optimism about SPX's potential to significantly reduce sequencing costs, with a commercial launch anticipated in 2026.
Summarizing RO's New SPX Sequencing Technology: Speed, Accuracy, and Future Impact
0:07 What is SPX?: SPX stands for "Sequencing by Expansion." It involves synthesizing a complimentary DNA analog, called an "expandimer," which has an accordion-like backbone allowing it to stretch.
0:22 Nanopore-like Mechanism with Control: The expandimer sequence is read by threading it through pores, detecting current deviations similar to nanopore sequencing. A key difference is SPX's "translocation control elements" which pause threading between each base for very controlled movement.
0:44 Short-Read Technology: Unlike nanopore's long reads, SPX is a short-read technology with insert lengths typically in the low hundreds of base pairs.
0:58 Blazing Fast Speed: SPX's primary advantage is its exceptional speed, capable of achieving 5 billion reads in 1 hour or 15 billion in 4 hours. A full workflow, including library prep, sequencing, and variant calling, can be completed in under 6.5 hours.
1:14 High Throughput Architecture: This speed is enabled by a flow cell featuring 8 million pores, significantly more than the tens of thousands found in high-throughput nanopore systems. SPX is estimated to be about 10 times faster than the fastest nanopore methods in terms of data produced per second.
1:28 Competitive Accuracy: RO reports strong snip and indel calling accuracy in the range of 99-99.8%, achieving Q39 scores on tests, which is roughly on par with Illumina.
1:49 Anticipated Cost: While specific instrument and reagent costs are not yet disclosed, they are expected to rival Illumina's NovaSeq per gigabyte, with a potential premium for its speed.
2:10 Positive Market Impact: The speaker is enthusiastic about SPX's entry into the market, believing it will further drive down sequencing costs.
2:24 Future Developments: A potential limitation is its current inability to directly sequence native DNA or RNA on the 8 million pore device, though an academic solution might emerge.
2:32 Expected Launch: SPX is slated for an official launch in 2026, with further details on cost and applications eagerly awaited.