WeGene Founder Discusses DNBSEQ-T7 and the Future of Whole-Genome Sequencing
Following the commercial release of the DNBSEQ-T7 ultra-high-throughput sequencer on 9 September 2019, MGI interviewed Dr Gang Chen, founder and CEO of WeGene, one of the first organisations to adopt the platform.
According to Dr Chen, the value of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) lies in its ability to detect complex genetic mutations and provide deeper insights than chip-based testing. While microarray chips can meet many consumer needs, comprehensive disease risk analysis—such as early-onset Alzheimer’s disease or genetic conditions like thalassaemia and hereditary deafness—often requires full genome sequencing to capture rare mutations across multiple genes.
WeGene has accumulated extensive genomic datasets and relies heavily on WGS to build reference databases for population genetics research. Dr Chen explained that chip-based analysis itself depends on whole-genome sequencing data as a reference, making WGS an essential foundation for genetic research and interpretation.
For WeGene, the introduction of DNBSEQ-T7 marked a turning point. Previous platforms, such as the MGISEQ-2000, delivered reliable sequencing quality but lacked the throughput required for large-scale consumer genome services. The ultra-high-throughput capability of the T7 enables laboratories to process significantly more samples with greater efficiency.
“Without DNBSEQ-T7, it would have been difficult for us to scale whole-genome sequencing,” said Dr Chen. “A single T7 can match the output of around 20 desktop sequencers, making large-scale sequencing far more practical in terms of cost, staffing and operational efficiency.”
After deployment and evaluation, the T7 platform demonstrated strong stability and faster processing compared with earlier systems. WeGene began using the instrument for production sequencing in October 2019 and plans to gradually migrate its whole-genome sequencing services to the T7 platform.
The improved throughput also allows WeGene to scale its consumer genetic testing business. Previously, the company could deliver only around 100 whole-genome tests per month. With the T7, it can support larger promotional campaigns while maintaining fast turnaround times expected by consumers.
Dr Chen believes the growth of genomic technologies and increased public understanding of genetic testing will drive broader adoption. As sequencing costs continue to fall and automation improves, genomic data will become increasingly integrated into healthcare and research.
Looking ahead, Dr Chen expects continued progress toward higher throughput, lower costs and greater automation in sequencing technologies. These advancements could eventually make genomic analysis widely accessible, bringing the industry closer to the vision of “genome for everyone.”
