Illumina Protein Prep Launches to Boost Proteomic Insights for Drug Discovery

Illumina Inc. has officially launched Illumina Protein Prep, a new assay designed to enhance next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based proteomics discovery at scale. Previously available via an early-access program, the assay is now broadly accessible to researchers worldwide, enabling the integration of proteomics into large genomics studies across cancer, cardiometabolic, and immunologic diseases.

Illumina Protein Prep offers a streamlined sample-to-insights solution for both discovery and clinical research. “NGS-based proteomics provides critical speed, accuracy, reproducibility, and scalability to power large studies and accelerate the drug discovery pipeline for our ecosystem partners in biopharma,” said Steve Barnard, Illumina’s chief technology officer. He emphasized that proteomics is vital for advancing disease understanding and is a key component of multiomics approaches.

The assay leverages SOMAmer technology to measure 9,500 unique human protein targets—the most extensive panel available with an NGS readout—offering deep insights into protein biology. When paired with Illumina’s NovaSeq sequencing platforms, researchers can simultaneously analyze thousands of proteins in a single experiment, significantly boosting proteomics discovery power.

Following sequencing, Illumina’s DRAGEN Protein Quantification and Connected Multiomics software simplify data analysis, helping scientists translate complex proteomic data into actionable insights. This integrated workflow aims to accelerate progress from biological discovery to therapeutic development, supporting pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, and translational research efforts globally.