Environmental RNA (eRNA)
What Is Environmental RNA (eRNA)?
Environmental RNA (eRNA) sequencing is an advanced environmental genomics approach that detects and profiles RNA molecules shed by living organisms into environmental samples such as water, soil, air, and sediments. Unlike environmental DNA (eDNA), which detects both living and dead organisms, eRNA reflects active gene expression and is therefore a better indicator of current biological activity within an ecosystem.
eRNA originates from cellular debris, secretions, and extracellular vesicles, and carries species-specific and functional information. By sequencing eRNA, researchers can:
-
Identify which organisms are actively present,
-
Determine their physiological states, and
-
Understand ecosystem-level functional dynamics.
Because RNA is more labile than DNA, AUGenomics uses optimized preservation, extraction, and library preparation workflows to generate high-quality eRNA datasets even from challenging environmental matrices.
Advantages of eRNA
01
Activity-Based Monitoring: Detects only organisms that are alive and actively expressing genes.
02
Functional Insights: Captures transcriptomic data to reveal the biological functions and metabolic activity of microbial and macro-organism communities.
03
Species-Level Resolution: Enables taxonomic identification of actively present organisms.
04
Multi-Omic Integration: Can be paired with eDNA, metagenomics, or metabolomics to link presence with function.
05
Optimized Sample Handling: Workflows designed to stabilize and recover fragile RNA from environmental samples.
06
Low Input Compatibility: Effective sequencing from low concentrations typical of eRNA.
07
Broad Sample Acceptance: Supports water, soil, sediment, air filters, and more.
08
Custom Assay Options: Targeted panels or whole-transcriptome approaches available.
eRNA sequencing is an emerging tool that provides real-time snapshots of ecosystem activity. Applications include:
-
Biodiversity Monitoring: Identifying actively present species in aquatic and terrestrial environments.
-
Conservation Biology: Tracking endangered species and evaluating the effectiveness of conservation interventions.
-
Invasive Species Detection: Confirming presence and activity of invasive organisms in ecosystems.
-
Environmental Impact Studies: Assessing functional responses of communities to pollution, habitat restoration, or climate change.
-
Aquatic Ecology: Measuring planktonic activity and trophic interactions in marine and freshwater environments.
-
Agriculture: Monitoring soil microbiome activity related to crop productivity and disease resistance.
-
Pathogen Surveillance: Detecting active viral, bacterial, or parasitic pathogens in environmental reservoirs.
-
Functional Ecology: Linking species composition with gene expression to understand ecosystem processes.
What is eRNA Used For?
eRNA with AUGenomics
Sample Submission
Minimum 50 mL water, 10 g soil, or equivalent environmental material. Samples should be filtered, preserved in ethanol or frozen immediately, and kept at –20°C or colder.
Please refer to our Shipping Guidelines for project-specific guidance.
Turnaround Time
Typical turnaround for eDNA biodiversity assessment is 14–18 business days from sample receipt. Expedited options are available depending on project scope and sequencing depth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How does eRNA differ from eDNA?
A: eDNA detects the presence of organisms (living or dead), while eRNA reflects active gene expression, making it a better indicator of current biological activity.
Q: What types of samples can be used for eRNA?
A: We accept water, soil, sediment, air filters, and other environmental matrices. Proper preservation (e.g., RNAlater, freezing) is critical to maintain RNA integrity.
Q: How is RNA stabilized during collection?
A: We provide guidelines for immediate preservation using stabilizing agents or cold-chain storage to prevent RNA degradation.
Q: What sequencing approaches are available?
A: We offer both targeted amplicon RNA sequencing for specific taxa and shotgun transcriptomics for global expression analysis.
Q: Can eRNA sequencing detect viruses?
A: Yes. RNA viruses (and other RNA-based entities) can be detected when present and actively replicating in the environment
Got more questions? Contact our team and get a free consultation anytime. info@augenomics.com
Glossary of Terms
-
eDNA: DNA shed by organisms into their environment
-
Biodiversity: The variety of life forms in a specific ecosystem or region
-
Primer: A short sequence used to initiate DNA amplification during PCR
-
Non-invasive monitoring: Surveying species presence without direct interference
