FAQ: What is the difference between NEBNext Unique Dual Index UMI Adaptors and NEBNext Adaptors for use with multiplex primers?

NEBNext Unique Dual Index UMI Adaptors are barcoded full-length adaptors that contain all sequences necessary for sequencing on the Illumina platforms. They are compatible with PCR-free library preparation. In addition, these adaptors carry a 12-base unique molecular identifier (UMI) 3´ to the i7 index, enabling more accurate removal of duplicate reads and error correction through consensus sequence building.  On the other hand, the NEBNext Adaptor is truncated and does not contain sample index. Index and other sequences necessary for sequencing on the Illumina platform are introduced through primers during PCR amplification when using the NEBNext Adaptor. Therefore, libraries generated using the NEBNext Adaptor are not compatible with PCR-free library preparation.