Kano Independent Research Centre Trust (KIRCT) – Genomics Centre

Genomics and Molecular Biology Lab:

This lab is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for molecular biology techniques such as PCR, sequencing, and gene expression analysis.

Subunits:
  • Gene Expression Analysis
  •  Genotyping
  • Sequencing
Mission:

The Genomics Centre at Kano Independent Research Centre Trust (KIRCT) is committed to advancing the field of genomics in Nigeria, with a focus on improving public health and reducing the burden of diseases in the country. Our mission is to apply cutting-edge genomics technologies and expertise to address the pressing health challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the areas of communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Objectives:

1. To establish a world-class genomic facility in Nigeria, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and expertise.

2. To conduct research in genomics, focusing on preeclampsia, diabetes, and hypertension prevalent in Nigeria.

3. To develop and implement genomic-based diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for preventing and treating diseases.

4. To train and mentor local researchers, clinicians, and students in genomics research and its applications.

5. To collaborate with national and international organizations to advance genomics research and translation in Nigeria.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

GridION ONT-PROMETHION 2 SOLO:

  • Real-Time Analysis: Get immediate results as sequencing progresses.
  • Scalability: Supports up to 5 MinION flow cells simultaneously for tailored output.
  • Versatility: Perfect for whole-genome sequencing, transcriptomics, or targeted studies.
  • Streamlined Workflow: Onboard compute for basecalling, analysis, and data management.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

ProFlex™ PCR System

The ProFlex™ PCR System is a versatile, high-performance thermal cycler designed for routine and advanced PCR applications.

  • Interchangeable Block Format: Accommodates multiple block configurations (e.g., 3 × 32-well, 2 × 96-well, 1 × 384-well), allowing flexibility based on sample volume and throughput.
  • Touchscreen Interface & Connectivity: Features a large color touchscreen with intuitive navigation, plus Wi-Fi and remote access via the Thermo Fisher Connect platform.
  • Precise Thermal Control: Offers rapid ramp rates (up to 6.0°C/sec) and precise temperature uniformity, ensuring reproducible amplification across all wells.
  • PCR Customization: Supports advanced features like gradient PCR, fast cycling, and protocol optimization, helping users fine-tune reaction conditions.
  • User Convenience: Built-in protocols, USB export, and remote monitoring reduce setup time and improve data management.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

NanoDrop Oneᶜ UV-Vis Spectrophotometer

  • Microvolume Analysis: Measure as little as 1–2 µL of sample with consistent accuracy.
  • Integrated Cuvette Capability: Expand versatility with standard cuvette-based measurements.
  • Rapid Results: Obtain data in seconds with minimal sample preparation.
  • Advanced Contaminant Detection: Identify impurities with built-in spectral analysis for better data integrity.
  • User-Friendly Design: Intuitive touchscreen interface and easy data management via Wi-Fi or USB.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Qubit™ Flex Fluorometer

  • Exceptional Sensitivity: Detect even low-concentration samples with fluorescence-based quantification.
  • Flexible Format: Analyze up to 8 samples simultaneously for increased throughput.
  • Broad Applications: Ideal for DNA, RNA, and protein quantification, as well as other assays.
  • Intuitive Design: Touchscreen interface and preloaded protocols for fast, user-friendly operation.
  • Sample Conservation: Requires only 1–20 µL of sample, preserving precious resources.
  • KingFisher Flex Automated Extraction System

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

QuantStudio™ 12k Flex Real-Time PCR System

  • High Sensitivity and Accuracy: Detect and quantify even low-abundance targets with precision.
  • Flexible Format: Supports multiple block types (96-well, 384-well, and TaqMan® Array Cards) to accommodate diverse sample needs.
  • Multiplexing Capability: Analyze multiple targets in a single reaction for greater efficiency.
  • Advanced Connectivity: Cloud-enabled system for remote monitoring and data sharing.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive software for streamlined experimental setup and data analysis.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Illumina MiSeq i100 plus

  • Fast Turnaround Time: Delivers results up to four times faster than previous models, with sequencing run times as short as four hours, enabling same-day results.
  • High Output and Flexibility: It offers an output range of 1.5 to 30 gigabases and supports up to 200 million paired-end reads per run.
  • Simplified Workflow: Streamlined workflow with integrated cartridges for library loading, reducing setup to three steps that can be completed in under 20 minutes. This design eliminates the need for washes between runs, improving sequencing efficiency.
  • Onboard Data Analysis: Preconfigured DRAGEN analysis pipelines are available generating data analysis summaries in two hours

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

NextSeq 2000 Systems:

  • High Output and Scalability: Offers an output range of 10 to 540 gigabases per run, supporting up to 1.8 billion single-end reads.
  • Flexible Read Lengths: It supports read lengths from 1 × 50 base pairs to 2 × 300 base pairs, providing adaptability for different sequencing needs.
  • Advanced XLEAP-SBS Chemistry: The system utilizes XLEAP-SBS chemistry, an enhanced version of Illumina’s sequencing-by-synthesis technology, offering faster, higher quality, and more robust sequencing.
  • Integrated DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform: The NextSeq 2000 features onboard DRAGEN secondary analysis, providing rapid and accurate data processing directly on the instrument.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Thermo Scientific™ KingFisher™ Flex

The Thermo Scientific™ KingFisher™ Flex is an automated, versatile nucleic acid extraction system optimized for high-throughput workflows.

  • High Throughput: Processes up to 96 samples per run using deep-well plates. It is ideal for medium to large-scale DNA/RNA extraction needs.
  • Magnetic Bead-Based Technology: Ensures high purity and yield of nucleic acids, proteins, or cells using proven magnetic particle separation across multiple sample types.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Touchscreen controls with pre-installed protocols and LIMS integration for traceability and compliance.
  • NGS-Ready Output: Yields high-integrity nucleic acids suitable for qPCR, microarray, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and clinical assays.