The new instrument, the Illumina Inc. (San Diego, CA, USA) HiSeq 2000, is capable of generating two billion paired-end reads and 200 gigabases (Gb) of quality filtered data in a single run. The system uses two flow cells and an innovative dual-surface imaging method, enabling new levels of sequencing output as well as experimental flexibility.

For the operator the HiSeq 2000 offers streamlined and intuitive single operator workflow; initiating a run requires less than 10 minutes total hands-on time. Preconfigured plug-and-play reagents, a touch screen user interface, and real-time and remote run monitoring result in simpler instrument operation. Jay Flatley, president and CEO of Illumina, said, "These innovations redefine the trajectory of sequencing and, for the first time, take the cost of sequencing a human genome below $10,000."

"HiSeq will have a major impact on a broad range of applications, including advancing our understanding of cancer and other complex genetic diseases. We can now sequence two human genomes in a single run--for example, a tumor and a normal sample--at 30-fold coverage," said Dr. David Bentley, vice president and chief scientist at Illumina. "The unprecedented output and cost-effective operation will make human genome sequencing routine and allow researchers to easily compare entire genomes, transcriptomes, and epigenomes."

The HiSeq 2000 sequencing system began shipping in limited quantities to selected sites in February 2009, and is expected to ship broadly in March 2010.

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