Cell-Free RNA (cfRNA) Sequencing
What Is Cell-Free RNA (cfRNA) Sequencing?
Cell-free RNA (cfRNA) sequencing is an advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach that profiles RNA fragments circulating freely in the bloodstream or other body fluids. Unlike traditional RNA sequencing from cells or tissues, cfRNA analysis captures transcripts released from tissues into circulation, including messenger RNA (mRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), and microRNA (miRNA).
These cfRNA molecules reflect real-time gene expression activity from multiple tissues, offering a dynamic snapshot of physiological and pathological processes. cfRNA is particularly valuable because it:
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Provides tissue-of-origin information,
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Detects transcriptional changes associated with disease progression,
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Allows non-invasive biomarker discovery through a simple blood draw.
AUGenomics uses optimized cfRNA extraction, low-input library preparation, and deep sequencing workflows to generate high-quality transcriptomic data from the low quantities and fragmented nature of cfRNA typically present in plasma samples.
Advantages of cfRNA Sequencing
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Real-Time Expression Profiling: Captures active transcriptional signatures from multiple tissues.
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Non-Invasive Sampling: Uses plasma or other body fluids, eliminating the need for tissue biopsy.
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Low Input Compatibility: Optimized protocols for the small, fragmented RNA typical of cfRNA.
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Comprehensive Transcript Detection: Profiles mRNA, lncRNA, and small RNA populations.
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Disease Monitoring: Detects RNA biomarkers associated with cancer, cardiovascular disease, and more.
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Tissue-of-Origin Resolution: Deconvolutes cfRNA to reveal the contributing tissue sources.
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Flexible Sequencing Options: Supports whole transcriptome, small RNA, or targeted cfRNA panels.
cfRNA sequencing is transforming research by enabling non-invasive transcriptomics for biomarker discovery, disease monitoring, and translational studies. Applications include:
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Cancer Research: Detecting tumor-derived RNA signatures for early diagnosis and monitoring therapy response.
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Prenatal Medicine: Profiling placental and fetal RNA in maternal plasma for non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT).
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Neurological Disorders: Investigating brain-derived RNA signatures in circulation.
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Cardiovascular Disease: Identifying cfRNA markers of cardiac injury or heart failure.
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Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases: Profiling immune-related RNA expression dynamics.
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Liquid Biopsy Research: Combining cfRNA with cfDNA for multi-omic liquid biopsy approaches.
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Drug Response Monitoring: Tracking gene expression changes during treatment in real time.
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Environmental & Stress Response Studies: Measuring transcriptomic changes in response to physiological stressors.
What is cfRNA Sequencing Used For?
cfRNA Sequencing with AUGenomics
Sample Submission
500–1,000 µL of plasma or serum (EDTA tubes recommended). Extracted RNA should be ≥10 ng with minimal degradation. Store plasma samples at –80°C.
Please refer to our Shipping Guidelines for project-specific guidance.
Turnaround Time
Typical turnaround for plasma cfRNA projects is 12–16 business days from sample receipt. Expedited options are available depending on project scope and sequencing depth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the difference between cfDNA and cfRNA sequencing?
A: cfDNA reflects genomic content, while cfRNA captures dynamic gene expression from tissues and cells, offering insights into active biological processes.
Q: Is this suitable for cancer diagnostics?
A: Yes. Plasma RNA sequencing can help identify tumor-derived transcripts and is increasingly explored for liquid biopsy applications.
Q: How should plasma samples be collected and stored?
A: Use EDTA tubes, process within 2 hours of collection, and store plasma at –80°C to prevent RNA degradation.
Q: What sample types are required?
A: Plasma is the preferred sample for cfRNA extraction. We provide collection and stabilization kits to preserve RNA integrity.
Q: How much input is needed?
A: Our optimized workflows can generate libraries from as little as 1–10 ng of total cfRNA, depending on the assay.
Q: What sequencing options do you offer?
A: We provide whole transcriptome, small RNA, and targeted panel sequencing for cfRNA, depending on your research goals.
Q: Can cfRNA sequencing detect rare transcripts?
A: Yes. Deep sequencing combined with our bioinformatics pipeline enables detection of low-abundance transcripts in challenging samples.
Got more questions? Contact our team and get a free consultation anytime. info@augenomics.com
Glossary of Terms
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cfRNA: Cell-free RNA fragments circulating in blood or other fluids
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Transcriptome: The full set of RNA transcripts produced in a cell or tissue
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Liquid biopsy: A non-invasive method of testing for disease biomarkers using blood or other fluids
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EDTA: A type of anticoagulant used in blood collection tubes
