Genomics Core Facilities in Tunisia
Engineering Excellence & Technical Support
Genomics Core Facilities solutions for Research & Discovery (R&D). High-standard technical execution following OEM protocols and local regulatory frameworks.
High-Throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Our facility offers state-of-the-art NGS platforms for comprehensive genomic analyses, including whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, RNA-Seq, and epigenomic profiling. This enables cutting-edge research in disease association, transcriptomics, and personalized medicine for the Tunisian scientific community.
Advanced Bioinformatics & Data Analysis
Leveraging powerful computational infrastructure and expert bioinformaticians, we provide sophisticated data analysis pipelines for raw NGS data. This includes variant calling, differential gene expression analysis, pathway enrichment, and custom analysis solutions to unlock the full potential of your genomic data.
Expert Sample Preparation & Quality Control
We specialize in meticulous DNA/RNA extraction and library preparation using validated protocols and rigorous quality control measures. This ensures the highest quality input material for sequencing, maximizing data accuracy and reproducibility for your genomics projects.
What Is Genomics Core Facilities In Tunisia?
Genomics Core Facilities in Tunisia represent centralized service units that provide access to advanced genomic technologies, expertise, and bioinformatics support for researchers and institutions. These facilities are instrumental in advancing biological and biomedical research by enabling high-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing, genotyping, epigenetic analysis, and other complex genomic workflows. They act as a crucial resource, democratizing access to cutting-edge instrumentation and specialized knowledge that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive for individual laboratories.
| Target User Group | Primary Needs | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Research Institutions (Universities, Research Centers) | Access to state-of-the-art genomic technologies and expertise for fundamental research; cost-effective alternative to individual lab investment. | Identifying disease-associated genes; studying evolutionary biology; understanding gene regulation; characterizing microbial communities; developing novel crop varieties. |
| Hospitals and Clinical Research Centers | Genomic profiling for diagnostics, prognostics, and personalized medicine; research into genetic basis of diseases; pharmacogenomics studies. | Cancer genomics (tumor profiling); identifying inherited genetic disorders; infectious disease outbreak tracking; guiding therapeutic interventions based on genetic profiles. |
| Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies | Drug discovery and development; target validation; biomarker identification; preclinical and clinical trial support; quality control of biological products. | Screening for drug targets; assessing drug efficacy and safety; developing companion diagnostics; characterizing genetic variations in drug response. |
| Agricultural Research Institutes | Improving crop yields and disease resistance; understanding plant genetics and breeding; livestock improvement through genomic selection. | Marker-assisted selection (MAS); genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for desirable traits; sequencing of crop genomes for breeding programs. |
| Environmental Agencies and Research | Environmental monitoring; studying biodiversity; assessing impacts of environmental changes on ecosystems; identifying microbial roles in environmental processes. | Metagenomics for analyzing microbial communities in soil, water, or air; eDNA (environmental DNA) analysis for biodiversity surveys. |
Key Components and Services Offered by Genomics Core Facilities in Tunisia:
- High-Throughput Sequencing (Next-Generation Sequencing - NGS): Including various library preparation protocols and sequencing platforms (e.g., Illumina, PacBio) for whole-genome, exome, transcriptome, epigenome, and targeted sequencing.
- Genotyping and SNP Analysis: Utilizing array-based technologies (e.g., SNP arrays) or targeted sequencing for identifying genetic variations.
- Epigenomic Profiling: Services such as ChIP-seq for protein-DNA interactions, ATAC-seq for chromatin accessibility, and bisulfite sequencing for DNA methylation analysis.
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis: Providing computational resources, pipelines, and expert consultation for data processing, variant calling, gene expression analysis, pathway enrichment, and statistical interpretation.
- Sample Preparation and Quality Control: Ensuring the integrity and suitability of biological samples (DNA, RNA) for downstream genomic analyses through methods like Qubit, Nanodrop, and Bioanalyzer.
- Technical Consultation and Training: Offering guidance on experimental design, protocol optimization, and hands-on training for researchers utilizing core facility services.
- Data Storage and Management: Secure and robust infrastructure for storing and managing large genomic datasets.
Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities In Tunisia?
Genomics core facilities are essential for advancing research and development across various scientific disciplines. In Tunisia, these facilities can serve a diverse range of clients, from academic institutions to private industries and governmental bodies. Their expertise and advanced technological capabilities are crucial for tackling complex biological questions, driving innovation in healthcare, agriculture, and biotechnology, and ultimately contributing to the nation's scientific and economic growth.
| Customer Type | Relevant Departments/Units | Potential Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Research Institutions | Biology Departments, Medical Faculties, Agricultural Sciences Faculties, Biotechnology Departments, Pharmacy Faculties, Environmental Sciences Departments | Basic research (gene function, disease mechanisms), population genetics, evolutionary studies, biomarker discovery, thesis projects, method development |
| Government Research Centers | National Institute of Agricultural Research of Tunisia (INRAT), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, National Institute of Health Sciences | Crop improvement, infectious disease surveillance, public health research, biodiversity studies, food safety |
| Hospitals and Clinical Laboratories | Pathology Departments, Genetics Clinics, Oncology Units, Infectious Disease Departments, Research & Development (R&D) Units | Diagnostic testing (rare diseases, cancer), personalized medicine, pharmacogenomics, prenatal screening, infectious agent identification |
| Biotechnology Companies | R&D Departments, Product Development Teams | Drug discovery and development, development of diagnostic tools, industrial enzyme production, synthetic biology applications, biosensor development |
| Pharmaceutical Companies | R&D Departments, Clinical Trials Units | Target identification, drug efficacy studies, preclinical testing, biomarker development for clinical trials, quality control |
| Agricultural Research Institutes | Plant Breeding Departments, Animal Husbandry Departments, Soil Science Departments | Marker-assisted selection (MAS) for crop and livestock improvement, disease resistance studies, understanding soil microbial communities, sustainable agriculture practices |
| Environmental Agencies | Ecology Departments, Biodiversity Conservation Units | Environmental monitoring, tracking invasive species, studying the impact of pollutants on ecosystems, biodiversity assessments |
| Food and Beverage Industries | Quality Control Departments, R&D Departments | Food traceability, authenticity testing, detection of allergens or contaminants, development of novel food products |
| Veterinary Services | Animal Health Departments, Diagnostic Laboratories | Disease diagnostics in animals, genetic improvement of livestock, surveillance of zoonotic diseases |
Target Customers and Departments for Genomics Core Facilities in Tunisia
- Academic Research Institutions
- Government Research Centers
- Hospitals and Clinical Laboratories
- Biotechnology Companies
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Agricultural Research Institutes
- Environmental Agencies
- Food and Beverage Industries
- Veterinary Services
Genomics Core Facilities Process In Tunisia
Genomics Core Facilities (GCFs) in Tunisia operate by a structured workflow to efficiently manage research projects that require advanced genomic services. This process begins with an initial inquiry from a researcher and culminates in the delivery of high-quality genomic data. The workflow is designed to ensure clear communication, accurate project planning, and successful execution, ultimately supporting the advancement of scientific research within Tunisia.
| Stage | Description | Key Activities | Involved Parties | Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inquiry and Consultation | The initial point of contact where researchers express their needs for genomic services. | Researchers contact GCF via email, phone, or in-person. GCF staff discuss project goals, technical feasibility, and available services. Preliminary advice on experimental design is provided. | Researcher, Genomics Core Facility Staff (Scientists, Technicians) | Understanding of project scope, initial feasibility assessment, guidance on service options. |
| Project Proposal and Scope Definition | Formalizing the research project requirements and outlining the specific services to be provided. | Researcher submits a detailed project proposal. GCF reviews the proposal and provides a quotation. Agreement is reached on the scope of work, timelines, and budget. A service agreement is signed. | Researcher, Genomics Core Facility Manager, Administrative Staff | Signed service agreement, detailed project plan, quotation/budget. |
| Sample Submission and Quality Control | The process of receiving and assessing the quality of biological samples from the researcher. | Researcher prepares and submits samples according to GCF guidelines. GCF performs initial quality control (e.g., DNA/RNA concentration, purity, integrity assessment using methods like Qubit, NanoDrop, Bioanalyzer). Unsuitable samples may be rejected or require re-extraction. | Researcher, Genomics Core Facility Technicians, Quality Control Specialists | Approved samples for downstream processing, sample submission log, QC reports. |
| Library Preparation | Preparing the DNA or RNA samples for sequencing by creating libraries. | Depending on the sequencing technology and experiment, GCF performs various library preparation steps (e.g., fragmentation, adapter ligation, amplification). Specific kits and protocols are used based on the project requirements. | Genomics Core Facility Technicians | Sequencing-ready libraries, library QC data (e.g., insert size distribution). |
| Sequencing/Genotyping | The actual generation of raw genomic data using high-throughput platforms. | Libraries are loaded onto sequencers (e.g., Illumina, Nanopore) or genotyping arrays. Data is generated and saved as raw files. | Genomics Core Facility Technicians, Sequencing Specialists | Raw sequencing data (e.g., FASTQ files), cluster generation reports, instrument run logs. |
| Data Processing and Analysis | Transforming raw sequencing data into usable genomic information. | Initial data processing (e.g., demultiplexing, quality trimming, adapter removal). Alignment to a reference genome or de novo assembly. Variant calling, gene expression quantification, or other bioinformatic analyses as per project scope. | Genomics Core Facility Bioinformaticians, Researcher (for collaborative analysis) | Processed data files (e.g., BAM, VCF, count matrices), alignment statistics, QC reports on processed data. |
| Data Delivery and Interpretation | Providing the processed data and assisting with its biological interpretation. | Raw and processed data is delivered to the researcher via secure means (e.g., secure server, hard drive). GCF may offer consultation on data interpretation, helping researchers understand the biological significance of their findings. | Genomics Core Facility Bioinformaticians, Researcher | Finalized datasets, analysis reports, summary of findings, interpretation consultations. |
| Billing and Project Closure | Finalizing financial aspects and formally closing the research project with the GCF. | GCF issues a final invoice based on the agreed-upon services. Researcher reviews and processes the payment. Project documentation is archived. Feedback may be solicited to improve GCF services. | Administrative Staff, Researcher, GCF Management | Final invoice, payment confirmation, archived project records, feedback forms. |
Genomics Core Facility Workflow Stages in Tunisia
- Inquiry and Consultation
- Project Proposal and Scope Definition
- Sample Submission and Quality Control
- Library Preparation
- Sequencing/Genotyping
- Data Processing and Analysis
- Data Delivery and Interpretation
- Billing and Project Closure
Genomics Core Facilities Cost In Tunisia
Genomics core facilities in Tunisia offer a range of services, and their costs are influenced by several factors. These include the complexity of the assay (e.g., Sanger sequencing vs. next-generation sequencing), the specific technology employed, the type and volume of samples processed, the required turnaround time, and the level of data analysis and interpretation needed. Furthermore, the specific expertise of the facility and the quality of reagents and consumables used contribute to the overall pricing. While exact pricing can fluctuate, we can outline common price ranges in Tunisian Dinars (TND) for various genomic services.
| Service Type | Estimated Price Range (TND) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sanger Sequencing (per reaction) | 80 - 150 TND | Includes basic sequence read and chromatogram. |
| PCR Amplification (per reaction) | 30 - 60 TND | Cost depends on reagent kit and number of targets. |
| DNA Extraction (per sample) | 50 - 100 TND | Varies based on sample source (blood, tissue, etc.) and kit used. |
| RNA Extraction (per sample) | 70 - 150 TND | Often more complex than DNA extraction, especially for degraded RNA. |
| Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) - Library Preparation | 400 - 800 TND per sample | Excludes sequencing cost. |
| Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) - Sequencing (e.g., Illumina NovaSeq) | 1500 - 3000 TND per sample (depending on depth) | Costs are highly variable based on sequencing output and depth required. |
| Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) - Library Preparation | 300 - 600 TND per sample | Excludes sequencing cost. |
| Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) - Sequencing | 1000 - 2000 TND per sample | Generally less expensive than WGS. |
| Targeted Sequencing (e.g., gene panels) | 500 - 1500 TND per sample | Depends on the size and complexity of the gene panel. |
| Gene Expression Profiling (e.g., RNA-Seq - Library Prep) | 400 - 700 TND per sample | Excludes sequencing cost. |
| Gene Expression Profiling (e.g., RNA-Seq - Sequencing) | 1200 - 2500 TND per sample | Costs depend on sequencing depth and desired resolution. |
| Genotyping (e.g., SNP arrays) | 200 - 500 TND per sample | Depends on the density of the array. |
| Basic Data Analysis (e.g., base calling, QC reports) | Included in sequencing costs or an additional 100-300 TND | For more advanced bioinformatics analysis, costs increase significantly. |
Key Pricing Factors for Genomics Core Facilities in Tunisia
- Assay Complexity (e.g., Sanger, NGS, qPCR)
- Sequencing Technology (e.g., Illumina, PacBio)
- Sample Type and Volume
- Required Turnaround Time
- Data Analysis and Interpretation Level
- Reagent and Consumable Quality
- Facility Expertise and Overhead
Affordable Genomics Core Facilities Options
Accessing cutting-edge genomic technologies can be a significant investment for research institutions and individual labs. Fortunately, a variety of options exist to make genomics core facilities more affordable. This includes leveraging shared resources through core facilities, understanding different service models, and implementing strategic cost-saving measures. Value bundles are a key strategy, offering packaged services at a reduced overall cost compared to individual service purchases. These bundles can be tailored to specific research needs, such as whole-genome sequencing packages, targeted sequencing panels, or single-cell analysis workflows. Cost-saving strategies often involve strategic planning, negotiating bulk discounts, and exploring collaborative opportunities with other institutions.
| Strategy/Option | Description | Cost-Saving Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Core Facility Model | Centralized access to equipment, expertise, and services shared by multiple users. | Reduces individual capital investment, maintenance, and staffing costs. |
| Value Bundles | Pre-packaged combinations of services (e.g., library prep + sequencing + basic analysis) offered at a reduced price. | Significant discount compared to purchasing services individually. |
| Targeted Sequencing Panels | Focuses sequencing on specific genes or regions of interest, rather than the entire genome. | Lower sequencing depth and fewer data points result in reduced sequencing and analysis costs. |
| Bulk Purchasing/Discounts | Ordering reagents, consumables, or services in large quantities. | Negotiated lower per-unit prices from vendors or service providers. |
| Collaborative Projects | Sharing resources, expertise, or costs with other labs or institutions for specific projects. | Splits capital, operational, or personnel expenses among collaborators. |
| Outsourced vs. In-house Analysis | Choosing between using core facility bioinformatics support or internal resources for data analysis. | Can save on specialized bioinformatics staff salaries if outsourcing is more cost-effective for certain tasks. |
| Standardized Protocols | Adopting uniform methods for sample preparation and experimental execution. | Increases efficiency, reduces batch effects, and minimizes repeat experiments or troubleshooting. |
Affordable Genomics Core Facility Options & Strategies
- Core facilities act as centralized hubs, providing access to expensive equipment and expertise, thereby reducing individual lab overhead.
- Different service models exist, from fully outsourced to collaborative partnerships, each with varying cost implications.
- Value bundles offer pre-defined packages of services (e.g., sequencing, library preparation, basic analysis) at a discounted rate.
- Targeted sequencing panels can be more cost-effective than whole-genome sequencing for specific research questions.
- Utilizing shared instrumentation and technicians within a core facility significantly reduces individual capital expenditure and maintenance costs.
- Negotiating bulk discounts for reagents and consumables when large-scale projects are planned.
- Exploring fee-for-service models versus institutional subsidies for core operations.
- Collaborating with other research groups or institutions to share the costs of specialized equipment or services.
- Leveraging open-source bioinformatics tools and cloud computing for data analysis to reduce software licensing and hardware costs.
- Standardizing experimental protocols to increase throughput and reduce per-sample costs.
- Seeking grant funding specifically for core facility access or technology upgrades.
- Implementing efficient sample submission and tracking systems to minimize errors and rework, thus saving time and resources.
Verified Providers In Tunisia
In the realm of healthcare, ensuring you're connected with verified providers is paramount for your well-being. In Tunisia, the emergence of Franance Health as a credentialing body signifies a significant step towards elevating the standards of healthcare services. This document outlines the importance of verified providers and highlights why Franance Health credentials represent the best choice for patients seeking quality and trustworthy medical care.
| Franance Health Verification Aspect | What it Means for You as a Patient |
|---|---|
| Clinical Competence Assessment | You are assured that the provider possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose and treat your medical conditions effectively. |
| Ethical Conduct Review | The provider has demonstrated a commitment to ethical practices, patient confidentiality, and professional integrity. |
| Patient Safety Protocols Adherence | The facility and staff have been evaluated for their adherence to critical safety measures, minimizing risks during your treatment. |
| Continuous Professional Development | Franance Health often requires ongoing training and education, ensuring providers are up-to-date with the latest medical advancements. |
| Facility Standards Compliance | If verifying a facility, it means it meets established standards for hygiene, equipment, and overall operational efficiency. |
Why Franance Health Credentials Matter
- Unwavering Commitment to Quality: Franance Health meticulously vets healthcare professionals and facilities, ensuring they meet rigorous quality benchmarks. This process goes beyond basic licensing, encompassing clinical competence, ethical conduct, and patient safety protocols.
- Enhanced Patient Trust and Safety: By choosing a Franance Health-verified provider, patients gain an added layer of confidence. The credential signifies that the provider has undergone a thorough and independent review, reducing the risk of encountering unqualified or substandard care.
- Access to Expertise: Franance Health's verification process identifies practitioners with specialized skills and up-to-date knowledge, ensuring you receive care from the most competent individuals in their respective fields.
- Streamlined Healthcare Navigation: For individuals seeking healthcare in Tunisia, especially expatriates or tourists, Franance Health credentials act as a reliable compass, simplifying the search for trustworthy medical services.
- Promoting Best Practices: The existence of a strong credentialing body like Franance Health encourages healthcare providers to continuously improve their practices and adhere to the highest professional standards, benefiting the entire Tunisian healthcare ecosystem.
Scope Of Work For Genomics Core Facilities
This Scope of Work (SOW) outlines the technical deliverables and standard specifications for the Genomics Core Facilities. The core facility provides essential genomic services to researchers, enabling advancements in various biological disciplines. This document details the expected outputs, quality control measures, and data formats for the services offered.
| Service | Technical Deliverable | Standard Specification | Data Format | Quality Control Metrics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DNA/RNA Extraction & Quality Control | Extracted DNA/RNA | Minimum concentration: 50 ng/µL (DNA), 20 ng/µL (RNA). RIN score: >= 7 (RNA). Spectrophotometric purity: A260/A280 between 1.8-2.0, A260/A230 >= 2.0. | Raw concentration and purity values (CSV) | Concentration (ng/µL), A260/A280 ratio, A260/A230 ratio, Electropherogram (for RNA) |
| Library Preparation (Illumina) | Indexed DNA/cDNA libraries | Library size distribution: Peak between 300-600 bp (depending on library type). Library yield: Minimum 5 nM. Adapter contamination: < 5%. | Library QC report (PDF), Raw sequencing data (FASTQ) | Library size distribution (Bioanalyzer/TapeStation trace), Library concentration (Qubit), Adapter dimer percentage |
| Next-Generation Sequencing (Illumina) | Raw sequencing reads | Minimum raw read yield: 20 Gb per lane (e.g., Illumina NovaSeq). Per-base quality score (Q30): >= 85%. | FASTQ files (compressed: .fastq.gz) | Total reads, Reads passing filter, %Q30 bases, GC content |
| Single-Cell RNA-Seq Library Prep | Indexed single-cell cDNA libraries | Cell capture efficiency: >70% of targeted cells. Library complexity: Assessed by unique molecular identifier (UMI) counts. | Library QC report (PDF), Raw sequencing data (FASTQ) | Cell count, Dead cell percentage, Mean reads per cell, Library size distribution |
| Genotyping | Genotype calls | Genotyping accuracy: >99%. Call rate: >95%. | VCF (Variant Call Format) files, PLINK files | Call rate per sample/SNP, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Minor Allele Frequency |
| Bioinformatics Analysis | Processed data, reports, figures | Analysis pipelines will be agreed upon with the researcher. Deliverables include aligned reads, variant calls, gene expression counts, differential expression analysis results, visualizations. | BAM/SAM, VCF, Count matrices (TSV/CSV), GO enrichment results (GFF/TSV), Figures (PDF, PNG) | Alignment rate, Mapping quality, Number of detected variants, Fold change and p-value thresholds |
Core Facility Services
- DNA/RNA Extraction & Quality Control
- Library Preparation for Sequencing (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Oxford Nanopore)
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
- Single-Cell Genomics
- Genotyping & SNP Analysis
- Bioinformatics Analysis & Data Interpretation
Service Level Agreement For Genomics Core Facilities
This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the guaranteed response times and uptime for the Genomics Core Facilities. It defines the expected performance standards to ensure reliable and efficient access to our services for all users. This SLA applies to all supported instrumentation and services offered by the facility.
| Service Category | Response Time Target (Business Hours) | Uptime Guarantee (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Instrumentation (e.g., Sequencers, Mass Spectrometers) | 2 business hours | 95% |
| High-Throughput Library Preparation Equipment | 4 business hours | 90% |
| Data Analysis Support (Standard Queries) | 1 business day | N/A |
| General Inquiries & Consultation | 2 business days | N/A |
| Routine Maintenance & Scheduled Downtime | Scheduled with advance notice (typically 1 week) | N/A |
Key Service Commitments
- Response Time: The time it takes for the Genomics Core Facilities to acknowledge and begin addressing a reported issue or request.
- Uptime Guarantee: The percentage of time that critical instrumentation and services are expected to be operational and available for use.
Frequently Asked Questions
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