Genotyping by Targeted Sequencing (GBTS)
Liquid-phase genotyping technology for precision agriculture and advanced breeding programs
What is GBTS?
Liquid-phase Genotyping-by-Target-Sequencing (GBTS) represents a paradigm shift from physical hardware constraints to fluid, software-defined adaptability. By utilizing solution-based hybridization and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), this technology allows for the simultaneous detection of known SNPs and the discovery of novel variants—such as micro-haplotypes and small InDels—within targeted regions.
Unlike traditional fixed-content microarrays, GBTS offers superior flexibility in distinguishing homoeologous variants in polyploid crops, capturing diverse alleles across subspecies, and discovering novel genetic variants that are critical for stress resilience and regional adaptation.
Technical Workflow
Probe Design
Custom-synthesized RNA or DNA probes designed complementary to genomic regions and biotinylated for high-affinity extraction.
Hybridization
Sample DNA is fragmented and denatured. High-kinetics solution-based environment ensures rapid binding.
Capture
Streptavidin-coated magnetic beads selectively pull enriched target DNA while non-targeted DNA is washed away.
Sequencing
High-throughput NGS provides high-resolution readout including sequence context beyond genotype calls.
GBTS vs. Traditional Arrays
| Feature | GBTS | Fixed SNP Arrays |
|---|---|---|
| Detection Method | NGS Sequencing Reads | Fluorescence Hybridization |
| Flexibility | High: Scalable; excels at distinguishing homoeologous variants | Low: Fixed content; struggles with complex sub-genomes |
| Novel Variant Discovery | Yes (In targeted regions) | No (Only known SNPs) |
| Bias | Low (Captures diverse alleles across subspecies) | High (Extreme ascertainment bias) |
| Data Output | Sequence Data (FASTQ/BAM/VCF) | Genotype Calls (AA/AB/BB) |
Commercial Probe Panels
Select a species to explore our comprehensive portfolio of GBTS probe panels tailored for different breeding objectives.
Wheat 5K Breeding Panel v2
Probe Features: High-throughput breeding panel targeting 530+ functionally validated genes across 7 agronomic categories. Integrates 96 core ID SNPs for fingerprinting and 1,000+ KASP-validated markers.
Marker Density: 5,730 Probes
Reference Genome: Chinese Spring (CS) RefSeq v2.1
Applications:
Wheat 5K Breeding Panel v3
Probe Features: Advanced panel focusing on ~140 functional haplotypes rather than single SNPs. Targets 530+ genes regulating ~40 agronomic traits.
Marker Density: 5,780 Probes
Reference Genome: Chinese Spring (CS) RefSeq v2.1
Applications:
Wheat 60K SNP Panel
Probe Features: Genomic Selection (GS) workhorse. Integrates high-quality markers from legacy arrays to ensure backward compatibility.
Marker Density: ~60,000 Probes
Reference Genome: Chinese Spring (CS) RefSeq v2.1
Applications:
Wheat 800K Ultra-HD Panel
Probe Features: Research-grade discovery tool derived from ~3,000 global populations (15M+ variants).
Marker Density: 800,000+ Probes
Reference Genome: Global Wheat Pan-Genome
Applications:
Our GBTS Services
Custom Probe Design
Tailored probe panels designed specifically for your breeding objectives, germplasm, and trait targets.
Probe Synthesis
High-quality synthesis of custom RNA or DNA probes with biotinylation for optimal capture efficiency.
Genotyping Services
Complete GBTS workflow from sample preparation through NGS sequencing and data delivery.
Data Analysis
Advanced bioinformatics including haplotype phasing, CNV detection, and imputation analysis.
Haplotype Mining
Identification of functional haplotypes linked to agronomic traits for precision breeding.
Consultation
Expert guidance on panel selection, experimental design, and data interpretation for your breeding program.
Ready to Transform Your Breeding Program?
Contact our team to discuss how GBTS can accelerate genetic gain and improve selection accuracy in your crops.
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