Verified Service Provider in Nigeria
Genomics Core Facilities in Nigeria
Engineering Excellence & Technical Support
Genomics Core Facilities solutions for Research & Discovery (R&D). High-standard technical execution following OEM protocols and local regulatory frameworks.
Advanced Genomics Sequencing Capabilities
Our facility offers cutting-edge next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, including Illumina NovaSeq and PacBio Sequel, enabling high-throughput whole-genome, exome, and targeted sequencing. This empowers researchers with comprehensive genomic data for diverse applications, from human disease research to agricultural genomics and pathogen surveillance.
Integrated Bioinformatics and Data Analysis Services
We provide robust bioinformatics support and analysis pipelines, ensuring researchers can effectively interpret complex genomic datasets. Our services include variant calling, transcriptomics analysis, epigenomics, and metagenomics, supported by experienced bioinformaticians and access to high-performance computing resources.
Capacity Building and Training in Genomics
Committed to advancing genomics research in Nigeria, our facility offers comprehensive training programs and workshops. These sessions cover experimental design, library preparation, NGS operation, and bioinformatics analysis, empowering local scientists and students with the skills to conduct independent genomics research.
What Is Genomics Core Facilities In Nigeria?
Genomics Core Facilities in Nigeria are specialized service centers providing access to advanced genomic technologies, instrumentation, and expertise. These facilities aim to democratize cutting-edge genomic research and application by offering services that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive or technically challenging for individual laboratories to establish and maintain. They are crucial for advancing life sciences, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental research within the country. The services encompass a range of molecular biology techniques, primarily focused on the analysis of DNA, RNA, and other nucleic acids at a large scale.
| Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities? | Typical Use Cases | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Researchers (Universities & Research Institutes): Primarily for basic scientific discovery, understanding biological mechanisms, and generating foundational data. | Disease Gene Discovery: Identifying genetic variants associated with inherited diseases, infectious agents, or complex multifactorial conditions prevalent in Nigeria (e.g., sickle cell anemia, malaria resistance, cancer predisposition). | Drug Discovery & Development: Identifying potential drug targets, understanding drug response mechanisms, and developing personalized medicine approaches. | Epidemiological Studies: Tracking the spread and evolution of infectious diseases (e.g., COVID-19 variants, Ebola), and understanding host-pathogen interactions. | Agronomic Research: Improving crop yields, developing disease-resistant varieties, understanding plant-microbe interactions, and enhancing livestock breeding through genomic selection. | Environmental Monitoring: Analyzing microbial communities (metagenomics) in different ecosystems, identifying genetic markers for environmental adaptation or pollution. | Forensic Science: DNA profiling for criminal investigations and identification purposes. | Conservation Biology: Studying genetic diversity of endangered species and developing conservation strategies. | Clinical Diagnostics (Emerging): While still developing, there's a growing need for genomic sequencing for rare disease diagnosis, carrier screening, and potentially cancer diagnostics in a clinical setting. |
Key Services Offered by Genomics Core Facilities:
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): This includes library preparation, sequencing runs (e.g., whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, RNA sequencing, ChIP-sequencing), and data quality control.
- Genotyping and SNP Analysis: Services for high-throughput genotyping, including SNP arrays and targeted sequencing panels.
- Gene Expression Analysis: Quantitative PCR (qPCR), digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), and RNA-Seq for profiling gene expression.
- Epigenomic Analysis: Services like DNA methylation profiling (e.g., bisulfite sequencing) and chromatin accessibility assays (e.g., ATAC-Seq).
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis Support: Essential for processing, analyzing, and interpreting large-scale genomic datasets, including variant calling, transcriptome assembly, and differential gene expression analysis.
- Consultation and Training: Expert advice on experimental design, protocol optimization, and data interpretation, alongside training workshops for researchers.
- Sample Preparation and Quality Control: Ensuring the integrity and suitability of biological samples for downstream genomic analyses.
Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities In Nigeria?
Genomics core facilities are essential for advancing research and development in Nigeria. They provide cutting-edge technologies and expertise that many individual labs or institutions may not possess. This democratization of advanced genomic capabilities fuels scientific discovery, diagnostics, and biotechnological innovation across various sectors. By centralizing expensive equipment and skilled personnel, these facilities offer cost-effective solutions and accelerate the pace of research.
| Department/Area | Key Genomics Applications |
|---|---|
| Genetics/Genomics | Whole genome sequencing, exome sequencing, transcriptomics, epigenomics, variant analysis. |
| Biochemistry/Molecular Biology | Gene expression profiling, gene function studies, DNA/RNA analysis. |
| Medicine/Pathology | Disease diagnosis (infectious, genetic, cancer), pharmacogenomics, biomarker discovery. |
| Public Health/Epidemiology | Pathogen surveillance, outbreak investigation, disease outbreak prediction, population genetics. |
| Agriculture/Agronomy | Marker-assisted selection (MAS), crop and livestock breeding, pest/disease resistance studies, soil microbiome analysis. |
| Animal Science/Veterinary Medicine | Animal disease diagnostics, breeding programs, microbiome studies, conservation genetics of endangered species. |
| Pharmacology/Pharmacogenomics | Drug target identification, personalized drug response prediction, drug metabolism studies. |
| Environmental Science/Ecology | Metagenomics, eDNA analysis for biodiversity assessment, environmental monitoring. |
| Biotechnology/Bioprocessing | Strain improvement, metabolic engineering, development of recombinant proteins. |
| Forensics | DNA profiling, identification of individuals (in collaboration with relevant bodies). |
Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities in Nigeria? Target Customers and Departments
- {"customer":"Academic and Research Institutions","description":"Universities, national research institutes, and centers of excellence conducting fundamental and applied research."}
- {"customer":"Healthcare Providers and Hospitals","description":"Teaching hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and public health institutions looking for advanced diagnostics and personalized medicine."}
- {"customer":"Agricultural Sector","description":"Research institutes focused on crop improvement, animal breeding, and livestock health, as well as agribusinesses."}
- {"customer":"Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies","description":"Emerging and established companies involved in drug discovery, vaccine development, and bioprocessing."}
- {"customer":"Government Agencies and Policymakers","description":"Agencies involved in public health, environmental monitoring, food security, and scientific policy."}
- {"customer":"Conservation and Environmental Organizations","description":"Groups working on biodiversity assessment, wildlife management, and ecological studies."}
Genomics Core Facilities Process In Nigeria
Genomics core facilities in Nigeria, while still developing, are crucial for advancing research and diagnostics. The workflow from an initial inquiry to the execution of a genomics project generally follows a structured path designed to ensure clarity, feasibility, and successful data generation. This process is essential for managing resources, meeting client expectations, and maintaining the integrity of genomic data.
| Stage | Description | Key Activities | Deliverables/Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inquiry and Consultation | The initial point of contact where potential users express their research needs or diagnostic requirements. | Contacting the core facility (email, phone, website form), preliminary discussion of research goals, budget considerations, and general service offerings. | Understanding of core facility capabilities, initial discussion of project scope, scheduling of a detailed consultation. |
| Project Design and Feasibility Assessment | A more in-depth meeting to define the scientific objectives and technical requirements of the project. | Detailed discussion of research question, experimental design, sample type and quantity, desired genomic application (e.g., whole-genome sequencing, targeted sequencing, genotyping, transcriptomics), turnaround time, data analysis needs, and cost estimation. | A formal project proposal or quote, agreement on experimental design, estimated budget, and timeline. |
| Sample Submission and Quality Control | The process of submitting biological samples to the core facility for processing. | Providing samples according to defined specifications (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction guidelines, tissue types), sample tracking, initial sample quality control (e.g., concentration, purity, integrity assessment using spectrophotometry, fluorometry, gel electrophoresis). | Accepted samples, quality control reports, notification of any sample issues requiring re-submission or clarification. |
| Library Preparation | The process of preparing the biological samples for the sequencing or genotyping platform. | DNA/RNA extraction (if not provided), fragmentation, adapter ligation, amplification, and library quantification, tailored to the specific sequencing platform (e.g., Illumina, Nanopore). | Ready-to-sequence or genotype libraries, library QC reports (e.g., size distribution, concentration). |
| Sequencing/Genotyping | The core of the genomics workflow where genetic information is captured. | Loading libraries onto the chosen sequencing instrument (e.g., Illumina MiSeq/NovaSeq, Nanopore MinION/PromethION) or running genotyping arrays, generating raw data (e.g., FASTQ files for sequencing, genotype calls for arrays). | Raw sequencing data or genotype data files, instrument run logs. |
| Data Analysis and Interpretation | Processing the raw data to extract meaningful biological information. | Quality control of raw data, alignment to reference genomes, variant calling, gene expression analysis, pathway analysis, statistical analysis, annotation, and interpretation of results in the context of the research question. | Processed genomic data (e.g., VCF files, BAM files, normalized gene expression matrices), interpretation reports, identified variants or gene expression patterns. |
| Data Delivery and Reporting | Providing the analyzed data and project findings to the client. | Secure transfer of analyzed data (e.g., via secure FTP, cloud storage), a comprehensive project report detailing methodology, results, and interpretation, often including figures and tables. | Final analyzed data, project report, raw data archive (if requested). |
| Follow-up and Support | Post-project interaction to ensure client satisfaction and support further research. | Answering questions regarding the data or report, assisting with further analysis or interpretation, potential discussions for future collaborations or projects. | Resolved client queries, successful integration of data into client's research, potential for future projects. |
Genomics Core Facilities Process in Nigeria: Inquiry to Execution
- Inquiry and Consultation
- Project Design and Feasibility Assessment
- Sample Submission and Quality Control
- Library Preparation
- Sequencing/Genotyping
- Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Data Delivery and Reporting
- Follow-up and Support
Genomics Core Facilities Cost In Nigeria
Genomics core facilities in Nigeria, like elsewhere, are complex operations with pricing influenced by a multitude of factors. The cost of genomics services in Nigeria is dynamic and can vary significantly based on the specific technology used, the complexity of the experiment, the volume of samples, the required turnaround time, and the expertise of the personnel involved. Local currency pricing (Nigerian Naira, NGN) is directly tied to these factors and also influenced by import costs for reagents and equipment, currency exchange rates, and the operational overhead of the facility.
Key pricing factors include:
- Sequencing Technology: Different sequencing platforms (e.g., Illumina NovaSeq, MiSeq, PacBio, Oxford Nanopore) have vastly different capital and operational costs, directly impacting per-sample pricing. Higher throughput and longer read lengths generally come with a higher price tag.
- Assay Type: The complexity of the genomic assay (e.g., whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, targeted sequencing panels, RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq, single-cell genomics) dictates the amount of library preparation, reagents, and computational analysis required, thus affecting cost.
- Sample Type and Quality: The source of DNA/RNA (blood, tissue, saliva, etc.) and its quality can influence the success rate and required processing steps. Degraded or low-yield samples might require additional extraction or amplification, increasing costs.
- Library Preparation: This is a crucial step involving fragmentation, adapter ligation, and amplification. The method used, the complexity of the library type (e.g., paired-end, multiplexing), and the required kits contribute significantly to the overall cost.
- Data Analysis and Bioinformatics: The level of data analysis required (e.g., raw data processing, variant calling, annotation, differential expression analysis, genome assembly) is a major cost driver. The expertise of bioinformaticians and the computational resources needed are factored in.
- Reagent and Consumable Costs: These are directly impacted by import duties, shipping costs, and foreign exchange rates, making them volatile in the Nigerian context. High-quality reagents are essential for reliable results.
- Personnel Expertise: Highly skilled technicians and bioinformaticians are essential for operating advanced equipment and performing complex analyses. Their salaries contribute to the overall pricing.
- Facility Overhead: This includes infrastructure, maintenance of equipment, power supply (often requiring generators due to unreliable grid electricity), and administrative costs.
- Turnaround Time: Expedited services often incur premium charges due to the need for prioritization and increased resource allocation.
- Volume Discounts: For larger projects or recurring clients, facilities may offer discounted rates per sample.
Pricing Ranges in Nigerian Naira (NGN):
It's challenging to provide definitive price lists as they are often customized and can change. However, based on general industry trends and the factors above, here are estimated ranges for common genomics services. These are indicative and can vary significantly between different core facilities and universities in Nigeria.
| Service | Estimated Price Range (NGN) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DNA/RNA Extraction (per sample) | 5,000 - 25,000 | Depends on tissue/cell type, quality, and kit used. |
| Library Preparation (NGS, standard kits) | 20,000 - 80,000 | Varies by library type (e.g., Illumina TruSeq, QIAseq) and kit costs. |
| Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS, ~30x coverage, human) | 200,000 - 600,000+ | Primarily driven by sequencing machine cost, reagents, and data volume. Higher coverage or specialized applications increase cost. |
| Whole Exome Sequencing (WES, human) | 150,000 - 400,000+ | Includes enrichment kits and sequencing. Cost depends on enrichment efficiency and sequencing depth. |
| Targeted Sequencing Panels (e.g., cancer panels, gene panels) | 80,000 - 300,000+ | Price depends on the number of genes/regions targeted and panel complexity. Can be per sample or per pool. |
| RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq, basic transcriptomics) | 100,000 - 400,000+ | Includes library prep and sequencing. Cost is influenced by sequencing depth and number of samples. |
| Bioinformatics Analysis (basic, per project/per sample) | 50,000 - 250,000+ | Basic variant calling, QC, and annotation. Complex analyses like de novo assembly or advanced statistical modeling will be significantly higher. |
Common Genomics Services and Estimated Price Ranges in Nigeria (NGN)
- DNA/RNA Extraction (per sample)
- Library Preparation (NGS, standard kits)
- Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS, ~30x coverage, human)
- Whole Exome Sequencing (WES, human)
- Targeted Sequencing Panels (e.g., cancer panels, gene panels)
- RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq, basic transcriptomics)
- Bioinformatics Analysis (basic, per project/per sample)
Affordable Genomics Core Facilities Options
Operating an in-house genomics core facility can be prohibitively expensive, especially for smaller institutions or research groups with fluctuating needs. Fortunately, numerous affordable options exist, leveraging external expertise and shared resources. These options range from service providers to collaborative models, each offering unique benefits. A key strategy for cost-effectiveness is to identify 'value bundles' – pre-packaged service offerings that combine multiple steps of a genomic workflow at a reduced price compared to individual service procurement. Furthermore, understanding and implementing various cost-saving strategies can significantly reduce the overall investment in genomic research.
| Cost-Saving Strategy | Description | Example Application |
|---|---|---|
| Value Bundles | Pre-packaged workflows (e.g., library preparation + sequencing + basic analysis) offered at a discount. | A researcher needs whole-genome sequencing for 50 samples. A bundled service offering for library prep, sequencing, and initial QC is cheaper than procuring each step separately. |
| Bulk Purchasing Discounts | Negotiating lower prices with service providers for higher sample volumes. | A multi-institutional project commits to sequencing 1000 samples with a single provider, securing a significant per-sample discount. |
| Prioritization of Services | Focusing on essential genomic analyses and avoiding unnecessary or overly complex workflows. | Instead of whole-genome sequencing, a pilot study uses whole-exome sequencing for cost-effectiveness. |
| Data Analysis Tiering | Opting for basic data analysis services initially and performing more complex analyses in-house or through a separate cloud-based platform if needed. | Purchasing sequencing with basic alignment and variant calling, then using R or Python scripts for downstream statistical analysis. |
| Instrument Sharing Programs | When some in-house equipment is available, sharing with other departments or institutions to offset maintenance and operational costs. | A biology department shares its sequencer with the chemistry department for specific RNA-seq experiments. |
| Grant Funding and Collaborations | Actively seeking grants that support core facility development or maintenance, and collaborating with other labs to share resources and costs. | A collaborative grant application includes funds for a shared single-cell sequencing platform accessed by multiple PIs. |
| Standardized Protocols | Adhering to widely accepted and optimized protocols can lead to higher success rates and fewer re-runs. | Using a validated library preparation kit recommended by the service provider to minimize failed libraries. |
| Open-Source Software | Utilizing free and open-source bioinformatics tools for data analysis instead of proprietary software. | Employing BWA for alignment and GATK for variant calling instead of commercial alternatives. |
Affordable Genomics Core Facility Options
- {"title":"Commercial Genomics Service Providers","description":"Companies specializing in high-throughput sequencing, genotyping, and other genomic analyses. They offer a wide array of services on a pay-per-sample basis, eliminating the need for capital investment in equipment and personnel."}
- {"title":"Academic Core Facilities at Neighboring Institutions","description":"Many universities and research institutes have established genomics cores. Negotiating access to these facilities on a fee-for-service basis can be cost-effective, especially for specialized equipment or expertise not available in-house."}
- {"title":"Consortia and Collaborative Networks","description":"Forming or joining research consortia allows for shared access to core facility resources, bulk purchasing discounts, and collaborative grant applications to fund genomic infrastructure."}
- {"title":"Cloud-Based Genomics Platforms","description":"Leveraging cloud computing for data analysis and storage can be more economical than maintaining on-premises infrastructure, especially for computationally intensive tasks."}
- {"title":"Specialized Service Providers for Specific Applications","description":"For highly niche applications (e.g., single-cell RNA-seq, long-read sequencing), dedicated service providers may offer superior expertise and pricing."}
Verified Providers In Nigeria
In Nigeria's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, trust and reliability are paramount. Patients and healthcare professionals alike seek assurance that the services and products they engage with meet stringent quality standards. Verified Providers in Nigeria offer this crucial peace of mind. Franance Health stands out as a leading example of such a verified entity, demonstrating a commitment to excellence that sets them apart. Their comprehensive credentials speak volumes about their dedication to providing superior healthcare solutions.
| Credential/Certification | Description | Significance for Patients |
|---|---|---|
| National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Accreditation | Official recognition from the Nigerian government's health insurance body. | Ensures affordability and accessibility of services for insured individuals; demonstrates adherence to national health standards. |
| ISO Certification (e.g., ISO 13485 for medical devices) | International standard for quality management systems in the medical device industry. | Guarantees consistent quality and safety of medical devices and equipment used, crucial for reliable diagnostics and treatments. |
| Professional Body Memberships (e.g., Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria - MDCN) | Affiliation with established professional regulatory bodies for healthcare practitioners. | Confirms that their medical staff are licensed, qualified, and uphold ethical professional conduct. |
| Partnerships with Reputable International Health Organizations | Collaborations with globally recognized healthcare entities. | Indicates access to best practices, advanced medical knowledge, and international quality benchmarks. |
| Client Testimonials and Case Studies | Positive feedback and documented success stories from previous patients. | Provides tangible evidence of patient satisfaction, successful treatment outcomes, and overall service excellence. |
Why Franance Health Credentials Make Them the Best Choice:
- Regulatory Compliance: Franance Health meticulously adheres to all Nigerian healthcare regulations and standards, ensuring safe and ethical practices.
- Quality Assurance Programs: They have robust internal quality assurance programs in place to continuously monitor and improve their services.
- Experienced and Qualified Staff: Their team comprises highly trained and experienced medical professionals and support staff, dedicated to patient well-being.
- Advanced Technology and Equipment: Franance Health invests in state-of-the-art medical technology and equipment, enabling accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Their philosophy centers on prioritizing patient needs, comfort, and positive health outcomes.
- Transparent Practices: Franance Health maintains transparency in their operations, pricing, and treatment plans, fostering trust with their clientele.
- Continuous Professional Development: The organization encourages and supports ongoing training and development for its staff, staying at the forefront of medical advancements.
Scope Of Work For Genomics Core Facilities
This document outlines the Scope of Work (SOW) for the Genomics Core Facilities, detailing technical deliverables and standard specifications. It serves as a framework for service provision, quality control, and expected outcomes.
| Service Area | Technical Deliverable | Standard Specifications/Metrics | Reporting Format | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) | Raw sequencing reads (FASTQ format) | Minimum read depth: X (project-specific) | Minimum Q30 bases: >80% | Data delivered via secure server/cloud storage | Project report with QC metrics and summary statistics | |
| Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) | Aligned reads (BAM/CRAM format) | Alignment to specified reference genome | Mapping quality metrics (e.g., percent mapped reads) | Data delivered via secure server/cloud storage | Project report with QC metrics and summary statistics | |
| Genotyping and SNP Analysis | Genotype calls (VCF format) | Accuracy: >98% (validated against known controls) | Call rate: >95% | Data delivered via secure server/cloud storage | Report including genotype summary, SNP frequency, and QC metrics | |
| Gene Expression Profiling (RNA-Seq) | Quantified gene expression levels (e.g., TPM, FPKM) | Differential gene expression analysis results (if requested) | Number of identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) | Fold change and p-value thresholds | Data delivered via secure server/cloud storage | Comprehensive report with QC, expression profiles, DEGs, and visualization plots (e.g., heatmaps, volcano plots) |
| Epigenomics (ChIP-Seq, ATAC-Seq) | Peak calls (BED format) | Peak quality metrics (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio, irreproducibility discovery rate) | Annotation of peaks to genomic features | Data delivered via secure server/cloud storage | Report including peak call summary, QC metrics, and functional enrichment analysis | |
| Sample QC and Library Preparation | Quantification reports (e.g., Qubit, Bioanalyzer) | Library complexity assessment | Library size distribution plots | Certificates of Analysis (CoA) for sample integrity | Summary of QC results and pass/fail criteria | |
| Bioinformatics and Data Analysis Support | Custom analysis pipelines and scripts | Statistical analysis of omics data | Visualization of results | Deliverables tailored to project scope (e.g., annotated data tables, figures, interactive dashboards) | Detailed documentation of analysis methods and code |
Key Areas of Genomics Core Facility Services
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Services
- Genotyping and SNP Analysis
- Gene Expression Profiling (including qPCR and RNA-Seq)
- Epigenomics (ChIP-Seq, ATAC-Seq)
- Metagenomics
- Long-Read Sequencing
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis Support
- Sample QC and Library Preparation
Service Level Agreement For Genomics Core Facilities
This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the expected response times and uptime guarantees for the Genomics Core Facilities. It is designed to ensure reliable and efficient service delivery for all users. This document supersedes any previous agreements regarding response times and uptime.
| Service Category | Response Time Target (Business Hours) | Uptime Guarantee | Escalation Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sequencing Services (e.g., Illumina, PacBio) | 4 Business Hours | 98.0% | Immediate escalation to Facility Director for critical failures affecting multiple projects. |
| Genotyping Services (e.g., SNP arrays, ddPCR) | 6 Business Hours | 97.5% | Escalation to Senior Technical Staff for complex or prolonged issues. |
| Data Analysis Support (e.g., bioinformatics assistance, data interpretation) | 8 Business Hours | 95.0% (for general inquiries; specific project timelines managed separately) | Bi-weekly review meetings for ongoing complex projects to ensure progress and address roadblocks. |
| Sample Preparation Services (e.g., library preparation, DNA/RNA extraction) | 4 Business Hours | 98.5% | On-call technical support for urgent sample processing needs outside of regular business hours (pre-arranged). |
| Equipment Access & Technical Support (e.g., microscope, sequencer operation) | 2 Business Hours (for immediate operational issues) | 99.0% (for core equipment availability) | Direct contact with on-site technical staff for immediate troubleshooting. |
Key Performance Indicators
- Response Time: The maximum time allowed for the Genomics Core Facilities to acknowledge and begin addressing a reported issue or request.
- Uptime Guarantee: The percentage of scheduled operational time during which the Genomics Core Facilities are available and functional.
- Scheduled Maintenance: Planned periods during which services may be temporarily unavailable for necessary upkeep and upgrades.
In-Depth Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Phase 02: Execution
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