The First Illumina NextSeq 2000 in a Private Lab in the Region

IMC Genomics has reached a landmark milestone with the installation and operational commissioning of the Illumina NextSeq 2000 — the first of its kind in a private laboratory anywhere in Central Asia. This represents a significant leap forward for accessible genomic medicine in the region.

The NextSeq 2000 is Illumina's latest mid-to-high throughput sequencing platform, capable of generating up to 300 gigabases of data per run. For our laboratory, this translates to the ability to process multiple patient samples simultaneously across different test types — from NIPT and carrier screening to comprehensive oncology panels — all on a single instrument.

What makes the NextSeq 2000 particularly well-suited for a clinical genetics laboratory is its combination of speed, accuracy, and flexibility. A typical NIPT run can be completed in under 24 hours of sequencing time, while more complex whole-exome sequencing runs can be configured to maximize either throughput or turnaround time depending on clinical need.

The platform uses Illumina's XLEAP-SBS chemistry, which offers improved signal-to-noise ratios compared to previous generations. In practical terms, this means higher base-calling accuracy and more reliable variant detection — critical factors when results directly influence clinical decisions about patient care.

Prior to the NextSeq 2000, patients and clinicians in Central Asia who required advanced NGS-based testing often had to ship samples to laboratories in Europe, the United States, or East Asia. This added weeks to turnaround times and introduced logistical challenges around sample integrity. Having this capability locally means faster results, better sample quality, and a more direct relationship between the laboratory and the treating physician.

Our validation process for the NextSeq 2000 was extensive. We ran parallel testing with established reference laboratories across multiple test types, confirming concordance rates of 99% or higher across all clinical panels. Quality metrics including Q30 scores (a measure of base-calling accuracy) consistently exceeded 90% — well above clinical minimums.

The installation of the NextSeq 2000 is part of our broader strategy to build a fully self-contained genomics center in Tashkent, serving not only Uzbekistan but the wider Central Asian region. Combined with our Ion Torrent platform for oncology applications and our growing bioinformatics infrastructure, we now offer a truly comprehensive genomic testing menu without the need for international sample referral.