Fixed ATAC-Seq Services

Genome-wide profiles of open chromatin from formaldehyde-fixed samples

 

Fixed ATAC-Seq Services Overview

Fixed ATAC-Seq Service
 

Fixed ATAC-Seq from Active Motif is ideal when working with precious, low-input, or difficult-to-process samples that require stabilization prior to chromatin accessibility analysis. This method allows you to fix cells with formaldehyde immediately after collection, preserving the native chromatin state and enabling batch processing or time-course studies with minimal variability. Fixed ATAC-Seq is especially useful for primary cells, research samples, or experiments where immediate processing or cryopreservation isn't feasible.

The Fixed ATAC-Seq process begins with fixation of intact whole cells using 1% formaldehyde to preserve chromatin structure. After fixation, nuclei are isolated and subjected to transposition using a hyperactive Tn5 transposase, which simultaneously fragments accessible regions of the genome and tags them with sequencing adapters. After decrosslinking and purification, the resulting libraries are then amplified and sequenced using next-generation sequencing (NGS). This approach maintains chromatin integrity while allowing flexible sample handling and batching, making it well-suited for time-course experiments and high-throughput studies. Our end-to-end service includes comprehensive data analysis support.

Let our team of ATAC-Seq experts handle the entire workflow, from sample prep to bioinformatics. With optimized protocols and in-depth analysis included, we make it easy to generate reliable, publication-ready chromatin accessibility data.

Fixed ATAC-Seq Highlights:

  • Compatible with formaldehyde-fixed samples.
  • Enables efficient batch processing and consistent results across time-course and drug-treatment experiments.
  • Optimized for primary cells.
  • End-to-end service.
  • Fast turnaround time.

Active Motif’s End-to-End Fixed ATAC-Seq Service includes:

  1. Chromatin relaxation and cell permeabilization
  2. Tagmentation using Tn5 transposase for library generation
  3. DNA Release, decrosslinking and purification
  4. PCR amplification
  5. Next-generation sequencing
  6. Comprehensive bioinformatics and data analysis
  7. Delivery of publication-ready figures
Fixed ATAC-Seq Workflow

Fixed ATAC-Seq Workflow
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Fixed ATAC-Seq Services Data

A

High correlation between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq

B

High correlation between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq

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Figure 1. High correlation between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq in both K562 cells and PBMCs.

ATAC-Seq data generated using the standard (native) and Fixed ATAC-Seq protocols show strong concordance in both human erythroleukemic (K562) cells and primary PBMCs. K562 cells (100K) were processed in triplicate with each method, demonstrating high correlation between native and fixed conditions (A). Similarly, 100K PBMCs processed in duplicate (native) and triplicate (fixed) also show consistent, high-quality data across methods.


A

Comparable quality metrics

B

Comparable quality metrics

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Figure 2. Comparable quality metrics between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq.​

FRiP scores (a) and peak counts (b) are shown for both Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq performed on K562 cells and primary PBMCs. While a decrease in FRiP score is observed in Fixed K562 samples compared to Native ATAC-Seq, the number of peaks remains comparable. In PBMCs, both FRiP scores and peak numbers are consistent across methods, with FRiP values aligning with expectations for primary cells (~25%).


A

Genome browser tracks

B

Genome browser tracks

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Figure 3. Genome browser tracks demonstrate high reproducibility between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq in PBMCs.​

Genome browser views highlight consistent peak calling between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq in primary PBMCs. The tracks show strong agreement in signal profiles, with both methods identifying the same accessible chromatin regions.


>Genome browser tracks(Click image to enlarge)

Figure 4. Genome browser tracks demonstrate high reproducibility between Native and Fixed ATAC-Seq in K562.

Both methods reveal highly similar peak patterns, with strong alignment in location, confirming reproducible detection of open chromatin regions.


 

Fixed ATAC-Seq Services FAQs

Can I expect to obtain the same quality data from Fixed ATAC-Seq as from regular ATAC-Seq?

Fixed ATAC-Seq provides similar overall data quality, but you may observe a slightly higher background signal compared to regular ATAC-Seq. This can result in a modest decrease in the number of peaks called and slightly lower FRiP (Fraction of Reads in Peaks) scores.

Can I fix samples using lower concentrations of formaldehyde?

We have tested a range of fixation conditions, and our validation studies have consistently shown that fixing samples with 1% formaldehyde for 10 minutes at room temperature yields the most reliable and high-quality results for Fixed ATAC-Seq. Using lower concentrations may result in insufficient crosslinking, which can compromise data quality by affecting chromatin stability and accessibility.

Can I submit FFPE samples for Fixed ATAC-Seq Service?

Our Fixed ATAC-Seq protocol is optimized for samples fixed with 1% formaldehyde. FFPE samples are not currently compatible with this workflow.

Can I fix isolated nuclei instead of whole cells for Fixed ATAC-Seq?

Our Fixed ATAC-Seq protocol has been optimized for fixing intact whole cells. We do not recommend fixing isolated nuclei, as it may impact chromatin structure and data quality.
 

Fixed ATAC-Seq Services Documents

 

 

 

Fixed ATAC-Seq Services Sample Submission Portal

Our online sample submission portal allows you to easily upload your service project samples and track your project status. Follow the sample submission instructions in the portal to ensure that all your samples arrive at Active Motif in the best possible condition and properly associated with your project.


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Fixed ATAC-Seq Service 25204 Get Quote