How to sequence your DNA for <$2k
a day ago
- #Nanopore Technology
- #DIY Science
- #DNA Sequencing
- The author and friends attempted DIY DNA sequencing using an Oxford Nanopore MinION kit.
- The process involved extracting DNA from blood, preparing it with adapters, and sequencing it using the Nanopore device.
- Initial attempts resulted in low coverage (13% of the human genome) and contamination (25% bacterial DNA).
- The total cost was approximately $1,100, including the Nanopore kit and makeshift lab equipment.
- Challenges included malfunctioning flow cells (only 623 out of 2048 pores worked) and insufficient sequencing depth for reliable SNP analysis.
- Despite limitations, the experiment demonstrated the feasibility of low-cost, at-home DNA sequencing.
- The author acknowledges the support of friends and reflects on potential improvements for future attempts.