What Is Oxford Nanopore Technology?
Oxford Nanopore Technology is a groundbreaking sequencing method that allows real-time, long-read DNA and RNA analysis. Unlike traditional short-read sequencing platforms, this approach directly measures the electrical signals as nucleic acids pass through protein nanopores, offering rapid and scalable genetic insights.
At CPGR, we bring this disruptive technology to South Africa, empowering researchers, clinicians, and biotechnologists with versatile and accessible sequencing tools.
Why South Africa Needs Nanopore Technology
South Africa is emerging as a hub for genomic research and precision medicine. With a high genetic diversity across populations and pressing public health challenges, it is critical to adopt technologies that are fast, affordable, and decentralized.
Oxford Nanopore Technology fits perfectly into this ecosystem. From field-based outbreak surveillance to agricultural genomics, this method supports diverse applications across South African industries.
Key Features of Oxford Nanopore Technology
Real-Time Sequencing
Nanopore technology offers immediate data analysis, allowing rapid decision-making in clinical, environmental, and agricultural settings.
Long Read Capabilities
Unlike short-read platforms, Nanopore Technology sequences long fragments of DNA, helping resolve complex genomic regions.
Portability
Devices like the MinION and Flongle are compact, making them ideal for field deployment in remote regions of South Africa.
Cost-Efficiency
Nanopore sequencing is scalable to your budget. Whether you’re running a large lab or a small field unit, there’s a device and pricing plan that suits your needs.
CPGR: Bringing Nanopore Technology to South Africa
As a leading genomic research platform in South Africa, CPGR ensures that Oxford Nanopore Technology is locally available, well-supported, and customized to fit our region’s unique needs.
We provide:
- Technology access through the sales and leasing of devices
- Training workshops for new users
- Technical support and custom project design
- Local data analysis support
CPGR is committed to democratizing access to genomics, and Nanopore Technology is central to that mission.
Applications of Nanopore Technology in South Africa
1. Public Health and Infectious Diseases
Oxford Nanopore Technology played a key role in tracking COVID-19 variants. In South Africa, it’s vital for tuberculosis, HIV, and pathogen surveillance.
2. Agriculture and Food Security
From identifying plant pathogens to improving crop resilience, Nanopore sequencing supports food security in Africa by enabling advanced agricultural genomics.
3. Wildlife and Conservation Genomics
Researchers use Oxford Nanopore Technology to study the genetics of endangered species and monitor biodiversity across national parks.
4. Human Genetics and Rare Disease
With its high-resolution and portable platforms, this technology supports the diagnosis of rare and inherited conditions in both urban hospitals and rural clinics.
How CPGR Supports Nanopore Projects
Training and Education
Our expert-led workshops across South Africa train individuals in sample prep, sequencing, and bioinformatics using Oxford Nanopore Technology.
Collaboration and Research Partnerships
CPGR actively partners with universities, hospitals, and biotech firms to co-develop and execute real-world genomic studies.
Customized Lab Services
Don’t have in-house capabilities? We offer sequencing-as-a-service using Nanopore platforms with fast turnaround and quality assurance.
Advantages Over Traditional Sequencing
- Speed: From sample to answer in hours, not days
- Scalability: Suitable for large genomes or targeted panels
- Portability: Use it in the lab or the field
- Affordability: Reduce overhead by cutting out central lab dependency
- Real-Time Feedback: Make decisions on the go
No other technology gives you this level of flexibility and impact—especially vital in resource-limited settings like parts of South Africa.
FAQs About Oxford Nanopore Technology
What is Oxford Nanopore Technology used for?
It’s used for DNA and RNA sequencing across medicine, agriculture, microbiology, and environmental science.
Can I use Nanopore sequencing in rural South Africa?
Yes. The devices are portable and perfect for on-site sequencing in remote or under-resourced areas.
Is training required to use Nanopore devices?
Basic training is needed, and CPGR provides complete onboarding, support, and resources.
How accurate is Oxford Nanopore Technology?
It’s highly accurate, especially when combined with powerful bioinformatics tools available through CPGR.
Is Oxford Nanopore affordable for small labs in South Africa?
Absolutely. With scalable pricing, even smaller academic and diagnostic labs can benefit.
Partner With CPGR for Genomics Innovation
Whether you’re conducting infectious disease surveillance, agricultural testing, or rare disease diagnostics, Oxford Nanopore Technology Nanopore Technology offers the tools you need to advance science in South Africa.Contact CPGR today to learn how we can support your genomics journey with expert consultation, devices, and end-to-end project assistance.
