RNA-Seq: revelation of the messengers

Next-generation RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) is rapidly outcompeting microarrays as the technology of choice for whole-transcriptome studies. However, the bioinformatics skills required for RNA-Seq data analysis often pose a significant hurdle for many biologists. Here, we put forward the concepts and considerations that are critical for RNA-Seq data analysis and provide a generic tutorial with example data that outlines the whole pipeline from next-generation sequencing output to quantification of differential gene expression.

► RNA-Seq offers a dynamic range of mRNA quantification at low technical variability
► Choice of the right protocols, tools, and methods are critical for RNA-Seq success
► Multireads can drastically affect the outcome of RNA-Seq experiments
► Appropriate normalization is critical prior to testing for differential expression