4.1 Pre-lab: Intro to RNA-seq

4.1.1 Purpose

In this pre-lab, students learn about RNA-sequencing so that we can take a closer look at some RNA-seq data in class.

4.1.2 Learning Objectives

  1. Compare and contrast the genome and the transcriptome
  2. Describe the steps involved in RNA-seq
  3. Define bioinformatics and its role in biology

4.1.3 Introduction

Next-generation DNA sequencing has revolutionized biological research. This tutorial will explain the basic process of next-gen sequencing and will discuss some of the ways it is used in research.

4.1.4 Activity 1 - Biotechnology: Next-Gen Sequencing

Estimated time: 20 min

4.1.4.1 Instructions

  1. Log into SciServer, click on compute and open your C-MOOR LearnR” container.
  2. Start the “Biotechnology: Next-Gen Sequencing” tutorial. Visit SciServer Guides and FAQs. if you need to jog your memory on how to do this.
  3. To move through the activities click “Continue” at the bottom of the screen. When you are done with a topic, click “Next Topic” to move on.

4.1.4.2 Questions

What is Bioinformatics?


Briefly describe each of the following steps of next-gen sequencing:
in vivo
in vitro
in silico

4.1.5 Activity 2 - Biotechnology: RNA-Seq

Estimated time: 10 min

4.1.5.1 Instructions

  1. Start the “Biotechnology:RNA-Seq” tutorial.
  2. To move through the activities click “Continue” at the bottom of the screen. When you are done with a topic, click “Next Topic” to move on.

4.1.5.2 Questions

What is Differential Gene Expression?


What feature of mRNA allows scientists to specifically isolate mRNA for RNA-seq?


Describe the steps in making cDNA from an mRNA.


Explain how the number of reads related to gene expression.

4.1.6 Footnotes

4.1.6.1 Resources

4.1.6.2 Contributions and Affiliations

  • Stephanie R. Coffman, Ph.D. Clovis Community College
  • Katie Cox, Ph.D. Carnegie Institute at John Hopkins University

Last Revised: March 2022

All materials CC-BY unless noted otherwise.