This kit enables users to perform cDNA synthesis directly from up to 1,000 intact cells (or 10 pg–10 ng of total RNA) with high reproducibility, even gene-body coverage, and accurate representation of GC-rich transcripts. Full-length cDNA libraries produced with this kit are compatible with both Illumina and Ion Torrent sequencing platforms. The core SMART technology employed by this kit provides full-length transcript information, enabling analysis of transcript isoforms, gene fusions, point mutations, etc. Oligo(dT) priming is used to specifically amplify mRNA from either high-quality total RNA (RIN >8) or intact cells. The inclusion of LNA technology in the SMART-Seq v4 Oligo improves the efficiency of template switching, allowing for identification of higher numbers of genes relative to other methods.

The SMART-Seq v4 Ultra Low Input RNA Kit for Sequencing is the fourth-generation of SMARTer ultra-low kit, and our most sensitive solution for ultra-low inputs. This kit takes SMART (Switching Mechanism at 5" End of RNA Template) technology to the next level by improving upon the Smart-seq2 method and incorporating locked nucleic acid (LNA) technology in the SMART-Seq v4 Oligo. With these additions—referred to as "SMARTer-Seq® chemistry"—this kit outperforms both the SMART-seq2 method and previous generations of SMARTer kits by identifying the greatest number of transcripts.

Information about prior SMARTer Ultra Low RNA kits can be found here.