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Pandemic Preparedness Capabilities

Development of a targeted metagenomic NGS platform for diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance of viral pandemic threats


PI(s)/Head responsible for the resource:

Lisa Pettersson

Host organisation(s):

Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University Hospital & Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University

Resource description:

The aim of this project is to develop and implement a targeted metagenomic next-generation sequencing-based (mNGS) platform that utilises a hybrid-capture and amplification approach for sensitive and accurate detection of viral pathogens. The focus will be on an enrichment panel that can detect > 3,000 viral species.

Project outline

The proposed system includes implementation of validated methods for:

  1. Constructing Illumina TruSeq sequencing libraries
  2. Performing target-capture using Twist BioScience oligomer panels
  3. Performing post-capture library amplification
  4. Sequencing on Illumina instruments (MiniSeq, MiSeq, NextSeq)
  5. Automated, reproducible bioinformatics workflow (NextFlow)
  6. Data storage and management
  7. User-friendly presentation of results (secure web application, LDAP/AD user authentication, database backend)
  8. Submission of data generated as part of consented academic studies to the ScliLifeLabs Data Centre in adherence with open science standards (FAIR)

Project development

We have hired a laboratory technician that is under training to perform the laboratory work needed. We are developing a web application that can translate and present the NGS data as clinically relevant information. The application must be sufficiently user-friendly from a clinical point of view to allow the platform to be used in clinical routine. The platform will, however, also be used for projects from the academic research community.

We plan to analyse clinical samples with common viruses (for example Influenza A and calicivirus) and samples spiked with inactivated viral species constituting possible pandemic threats to investigate the performance of the panel.

Continuation funding:

This capability received funding from the REPLPCM call to continue their work. Please see our PLP background information page for more information about the REPLPCM call. With this funding, the capability will focus on the implementation of the metagenomic NGS platform and develop a workflow for clinical use, both for diagnostics and surveillance. Effort will also be put into reaching out to clinicians to inform of the new possibilities that the NGS platform has to offer as a novel diagnostic tool for viral diseases – including unknown viruses.

Contact information:

Lisa Pettersson
Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University Hospital & Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University
Email: Lisa.pettersson@regionvasterbotten.se