FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to common questions about our testing services, sample collection, result turnaround times, and more. Whether you’re a patient, provider, or partner, we’re here to help you navigate your experience with Texas Scientific Laboratory.

  • DNA sequencing: WGS, WES, Target sequencing, Amplicon sequencing, various research related DNA sequencing (such as CRISPR, Chip, CUT&RUN, etc)
  • RNA sequencing: Bulk RNA sequencing, Small RNA sequencing 
  • Cell-free DNA/RNA sequencing
  • Single cell sequencing
  • Metagenomic sequencing

We have Element AVITI and Illumina NextSeq2000 available depending on your project’s goals. We also offer 10x Genomics Chromium X/IX for single cell sequencing.

For research NGS, we don’t have limitation on the sample type. We processed DNA/RNA samples from research animals, fungi, viruses and plants in the past. 

For clinical samples, we are able to process with the following sample types:

  • Extracted DNA/RNA samples
  • Blood / Tissue samples
  • Swab samples 
  • Saliva samples
  • Other body fluid for cf-DNA/RNA sequencing

The sample requirements are different between research samples and clinical samples and vary with library preparation type. It is highly recommended to discuss with us prior to sending your samples.

Yes, we accept the prepared library for sequencing. We ask you to provide us the detailed library preparation kit and index information along with your prepared libraries.

Yes, for research samples, we provide the QC analysis based on the customer’s request. For clinical samples, internal sample QC is a mandatory requirement for sample quality and quantity. Customers will be notified of any samples that failed in our internal QC step.

Since the limited storage space, we offer three-month storage period for research samples. If you would like longer storage or sending back your samples, please contact us. For clinical samples, we will keep the remaining samples according to the CLIA regulations.

Service Capabilities

We provide a range of assays, including:

  • Targeted panels (e.g., BRCA, EGFR, TP53)
  • Comprehensive oncology panels (500+ genes) 
  • Liquid biopsy (ctDNA/cfDNA) assays
  • Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for research or rare oncology cases

Yes, we support fully customizable gene panels with design and validation support for research or translational applications.

  • Single nucleotide variants (SNVs)
  • Insertions/deletions (indels)
  • Copy number variations (CNVs)
  • Gene fusions and rearrangements
  • Microsatellite instability (MSI) and tumor mutational burden (TMB)
Sample Requirements

For research NGS, we don’t have limitation on the sample type. We processed DNA/RNA samples from research animals, fungi, viruses and plants in the past.

For clinical samples, we are able to process with the following sample types:

  • Extracted DNA/RNA samples

  • Blood / Tissue samples

  • Swab samples

  • Saliva samples

  • Other body fluid for cf-DNA/RNA sequencing

  • Minimum of 10ng-2ug DNA/RNA (depending on assay)  
  • RIN >6 for RNA; tumor content  20% preferred 

Yes, we offer specialized protocols for FFPE and limited input samples, including pre-QC and pilot testing options.

Data Analysis & Reporting

Yes. We can provide the following reports upon request:

  • ACMG/AMP-tiered variant classification
  • Annotations using COSMIC, ClinVar, OncoKB, CIViC, and other databases
  • Actionable mutation highlights with available therapies and trials

Yes. In addition to the clinical report (PDF), we provide:

  • FASTQ, BAM, and VCF files upon request
  • Summary QC reports
Quality & Compliance

Our laboratory maintains CLIA certification and COLA accreditation.

Each case includes:

  • DNA/RNA input metrics
  • Sequencing quality (e.g., coverage, uniformity)
  • Tumor content and read depth
  • Variant-level confidence scoring

Yes, all clinical panels are validated for diagnostic use. We also support regulatory submissions (e.g., IND, IDE, FDA 510(k)) for trial sponsors.

Turnaround Time & Pricing
  • Targeted panels: 7-14 business days
  • WES/WGS: 2-4 weeks
  • Expedited (STAT) service available upon request

We offer:

  • Per-sample or bundled pricing
  • Volume discounts for institutions or clinical trials
  • Flexible invoicing and insurance billing (for select assays)
Sample Submission & Data Delivery
  • Ship using our pre-labeled kits or follow our sample submission guidelines
  • We provide shipping materials and detailed instructions upon order
  • Secure clinician portal
  • Clinical PDF reports
  • Raw data (FASTQ/BAM/VCF) via secure download

We retain clinical data for at least 5 years in compliance with HIPAA and CAP regulations.

Support & Collaboration

Yes. Our team includes molecular pathologists, genetic counselors, and bioinformaticians available for case reviews and consultations.

Absolutely. We provide NGS support for:

  • Investigator-initiated trials
  • Pharma-sponsored studies
  • Translational research and exploratory endpoints