We are accepting samples for 16S rRNA gene metagenomics services for internal and external users.
Microbiome & Microbial Genomics Core (MMGC)
The Microbiome & Microbial Genomics Core provides integrated end-to-end services for high-resolution characterization of host-associated microbial communities and their functional outputs. The core supports investigators across basic, translational, and clinical domains with state-of-the-art sequencing technologies, rigorous analytics, and scalable workflows.
Core Service Areas
- Microbiota Profiling (16S rRNA Gene Sequencing)
The core offers high-throughput microbiota profiling using Illumina MiSeq next-generation sequencing platforms. This approach enables cost-effective taxonomic characterization across large cohorts, with the capacity to multiplex up to 96 samples per run (~15 Gb output).
Services include:
- DNA extraction from diverse sample types (feces, saliva, oral swabs, tissues)
- Library preparation and sequencing
- Bioinformatics processing and statistical analysis
Deliverables include processed FASTQ files and comprehensive analytical outputs such as:
- Amplicon Sequence Variant (ASV) tables
- Alpha and beta diversity metrics
- Taxonomic summaries
- Differential abundance and enriched taxa analyses
- Microbiome Metagenomic Sequencing (Long-Read Nanopore Technology)
To enable species/strain- level resolution and functional insight, the core provides whole genomic metagenomic sequencing using Oxford Nanopore long-read platforms. This technology allows:
- Improved genome assembly and resolution of complex microbial communities
- Detection of structural variants, mobile genetic elements, and antimicrobial resistance genes
- Direct sequencing of native DNA without amplification bias
Services include:
- High-molecular-weight DNA extraction
- Library preparation for long-read sequencing
- Real-time sequencing and scalable throughput options
- Advanced bioinformatics for taxonomic classification.
- This platform is particularly suited for mechanistic studies of host–microbiome interactions and translational applications.
- RNA Modification & Epitranscriptomic Profiling (Coming soon)
The core provides emerging capabilities in RNA modification detection to support studies of microbial and host epitranscriptomics. Using nanopore-based direct RNA sequencing and complementary analytical pipelines, the core enables:
- Detection and mapping of RNA modifications (e.g., m6A and related marks)
- Characterization of transcriptional dynamics in microbial communities
- Integration of RNA modification data with metagenomic and host datasets
These services support cutting-edge investigations into gene regulation, host–microbiome signaling, and environmental responsiveness.
Additional Capabilities
- Whole genome sequencing of cultured bacteria using Illumina Nextera XT library preparation (low input ≥10 ng DNA)
- Cross-species sample processing (rodent, fish, human)
- End-to-end project support from experimental design through statistical analysis
- Custom pipelines tailored to hypothesis-driven research
Data Delivery
All projects include secure delivery of raw and processed data in compressed formats, accompanied by detailed reports and visualization outputs suitable for publication and grant reporting.
Access & Pricing
The core serves both internal and external investigators. For pricing, project consultation, and submission guidelines, please contact the Metagenomics Core Manager, Dr. Ramakumar Tummala (Ramakumar.tummala@utoledo.edu).
Learn more
Genetic/Genomic Core, NGS Illumina MiSeq Services
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