Detecting HTS Barcode Contamination

DNA barcoding enables multiple samples to be characterized in parallel with high throughput sequencing (HTS) experiments for cost efficiencies. Cross-contamination of DNA barcode reagents can result in the detection of HTS sequences for barcodes that were not originally added to a particular sample. Cross-contamination of data between multiplexed samples can also occur. Avoidance and detection of contaminated barcodes is relevant for DNA forensic samples analysis, accurate cancer diagnosis, clinical research applications, metagenomic analysis, etc. We present recommendations for the avoidance of contamination and a tool, TallyBarcodes, to aid in the detection of DNA barcode contamination.