In a significant advancement for epigenetic research, Wasatch BioLabs has partnered with Oxford Nanopore Technologies to develop Direct Whole Methylome Sequencing (dWMS). This innovative approach overcomes limitations of traditional bisulfite sequencing and methylation microarrays by eliminating DNA damage from harsh chemical treatments and sequencing biases from PCR amplification. As a result, dWMS offers comprehensive genome-wide coverage, capturing up to 98% of the 28.1 million CpG methylation sites in the human genome, and enables simultaneous detection of DNA sequence, methylation, and hydroxymethylation patterns.

The collaboration aims to accelerate breakthroughs in genomic and epigenomic analysis, driving innovation in both research and clinical applications. By integrating Oxford Nanopore's rapid, accessible sequencing technology with Wasatch BioLabs' proprietary methylation assays, the partnership seeks to redefine standards in epigenetic research and revolutionize the field.

For a deeper understanding of this transformative technology and its implications for biomarker discovery and clinical applications, watch the full presentation from the American Society of Human Genetics Annual Meeting.