FAQs

1. How many samples do I need for a multiomics study?

The required number of samples depends on the study design, biological variability, and statistical power. As a general guideline:

• Pilot studies: 5-10 samples per group

• Exploratory studies: 15-30 samples per group

• Large-scale/clinical studies: 50 plus samples per group

We recommend performing a power calculation before finalizing sample numbers.

2. What types of samples can be used for multiomics?

Multiomics can be performed on a variety of biological samples, including:

• Blood and plasma/serum

• Tissue (fresh, frozen, or FFPE for certain omics)

• Cells (cultured or primary)

• Urine, saliva, CSF, or stool (for metabolomics and microbiome analysis)

• Microbial communities (for metagenomics/metatranscriptomics)
  
  

3. What is the minimum sample quantity required?

Typical requirements (may vary depending on analysis):

• Genomics / Transcriptomics (RNA/DNA sequencing): 100 ng-1 µg nucleic acid

• Proteomics: ~50-100 µg total protein

• Metabolomics:

Plasma/serum: 50-100 µL

Urine: 200-500 µL

Tissue: 10-50 mg

We will provide exact requirements during project planning.

4. How should I prepare and store my samples?

• Plasma/serum: Collect in EDTA or heparin tubes, spin within 2 hours, store at-80°C

• Tissue: Snap-freeze in liquid nitrogen, store at-80°C

• RNA/DNA: Store at-80°C or in stabilization buffer (RNA later for RNA)

• Urine/CSF/saliva: Store at-80°C immediately after collection

• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
  
  

5. Can I submit FFPE samples?

Yes, FFPE samples can be used for genomics and proteomics, but RNA quality may be degraded. Fresh or frozen samples are preferred whenever possible.

6. Do I need biological replicates?

Yes. Biological replicates are crucial for reliable results. At least 3-5 biological replicates per group are strongly recommended. Technical replicates may be required for highly variable sample types.

7. Can I combine different omics layers on the same sample?

Yes. When sample amount is sufficient, we can perform multi-layer analysis (e.g., transcriptomics + proteomics + metabolomics) from the same biological source, maximizing biological insight.

8. What quality control is done before analysis?

• Genomics/transcriptomics: RNA/DNA integrity (RIN, DIN), purity, concentration

• Proteomics: Protein concentration and SDS-PAGE quality check

• Metabolomics: Volume/weight verification and metabolite stability check.
  
  

9. What if my sample quantity is limited?

We offer low-input protocols for RNA-seq, proteomics, and metabolomics. Please contact us with details so we can suggest the best workflow.

10. How should I ship my samples?

• Ship on dry ice for frozen samples.

• Use cold packs for short-term transport of stable samples.

• Clearly label all tubes and include a detailed sample sheet.