2-Channel SBS Technology
Evolution of 2-Channel SBS Technology
All Illumina sequencing systems use our proven sequencing by synthesis (SBS) technology. SBS is a widely adopted next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology and delivers highly accurate base-by-base sequencing and robust performance across the genome.
Several Illumina instruments use an evolution of SBS technology known as 2-channel SBS. This method enables faster data generation with the same high data accuracy as the original Illumina 4-channel SBS technology.
Sequencing Technology Video
See Illumina SBS technology in action.
Faster Sequencing and Data Processing Times
The 2-channel SBS method requires only 2 images per cycle, instead of 4 (Figure 1). This accelerates sequencing and data processing times, while delivering the same quality and accuracy that sets Illumina systems apart. These advances make 2-channel SBS an affordable solution, enabling NGS to become an everyday tool in laboratories worldwide.
How 2-Channel SBS Simplifies Nucleotide Detection
Rather than using a separate dye for each base, 2-channel SBS simplifies nucleotide detection by using two fluorescent dyes and two images to determine all four base calls. Images are taken of each DNA cluster using blue and green wavelength filter bands.
Clusters seen in blue or green images are interpreted as C and T bases, respectively. Clusters observed in both blue and green images are flagged as A bases, while unlabeled clusters are identified as G bases.
SBS Technology Spotlight
While SBS chemistry forms the foundation of all Illumina sequencers, the optical systems have evolved to include multiple detection methods. Learn more about how 2-channel SBS compares to 1-channel and 4-channel SBS, and view quality score data.
Read Technical Note2-Channel vs. Other SBS Chemistries
2-channel chemistry uses two different fluorescent dyes. In contrast, the original 4-channel chemistry uses a mixture of nucleotides labeled with four different fluorescent dyes, while 1-channel chemistry uses only one dye. The images are processed by image analysis software to determine nucleotide identity.
Publications Featuring Illumina 2-Channel SBS Instruments
- An
oncogenic MYB feedback loop drives alternate cell fates in
adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Drier Y, Cotton MJ, Williamson KE, et al. Nat Genet. 2016; 48(3):265-72. - Clonal
evolution and resistance to EGFR blockade in the blood of
colorectal cancer patients.
Siravegna G, Mussolin B, Buscarino M, et al. Nat Med. 2015; 21(7):795-801. - Pancreatic ß cell enhancers regulate rhythmic transcription of genes
controlling insulin secretion.
Perelis M, Marcheva B, Ramsey KM, et al. Science. 2015; 350(6261):aac4250.
Advancing Malaria Research with NGS
Researchers use Illumina NGS systems, including a 2-channel instrument, to expose vulnerabilities in a malaria parasite's reproductive mechanisms.
Read InterviewExplore 2-Channel SBS Instruments
The NextSeq 1000 and NextSeq 2000 systems offer cost-efficient flexibility for new and emerging applications.
The NovaSeq X and NovaSeq X Plus systems are our most powerful and most sustainable sequencing systems yet for extraordinary throughput and accuracy.
Instruments that Feature Red-Green 2-Channel SBS
The MiniSeq System leverages 2-channel SBS to offer a small, affordable benchtop sequencer. It supports a wide range of applications, from targeted DNA and RNA sequencing to tumor profiling studies, small RNA discovery, and more.
The NextSeq 550 System delivers speed and simplicity for everyday genomics, leveraging 2-channel SBS to offer efficient sequencing and data generation. This benchtop sequencer supports whole-transcriptome, exome, and targeted resequencing studies.
The NovaSeq 6000 System offers scalable output and proven performance for reliable high-throughput sequencing.
Find the Right Sequencing Instrument
Compare our benchtop and production-scale sequencers and find the right system for your needs.
Compare NGS Platforms
1-Channel SBS
1-channel SBS couples sequencing by synthesis chemistry with complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. While it uses the same base-calling architecture as 2-channel SBS, the 1-channel method supports lower instrument costs and the convenience of a small instrument footprint, all while maintaining high accuracy. Our smallest sequencer, the iSeq 100 System, uses 1-channel SBS.