A VCF (Variant Call Format) file is a standardized text file format used to store genetic variation data.
Key Characteristics:
- Variant-Only: VCF files typically store only the DNA positions where variations are detected
- Compressed Data: More compact than RAW files, focusing on differences from the reference genome
- Technical Format: Commonly used in research and medical genetics
- WGS Origin: Often generated from Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) data
VCF vs. RAW Files:
| VCF File | RAW File |
|---|---|
| Contains only variants (changes) | Contains both variants and non-variants |
| More technical format | More user-friendly format |
| Common in WGS testing | Common in SNP-chip testing |
| May need conversion | Direct compatibility |
Important Considerations:
When a report is based solely on a VCF file, it may not be as accurate as expected because it doesn't include all necessary information (non-variant positions). This is why we recommend converting VCF files to RAW format using our conversion service for optimal analysis.
Common Sources:
- Whole Genome Sequencing providers (Nebula, Dante Labs)
- Research facilities and medical testing
- Specialized genetic testing companies