Hi there, I currently have SOLiD colorspace data that is paired end (x_F3.fastq and x_F5.fastq).
Do I need to use PEAR to combine them before adapter removal and cleaning? Do I need to use PEAR at all?
The end goal (what I am trying to do) is to map these reads to the
mouse reference genome for differential gene expression
Based on your comment, I think the best approach is to map the reads in colorspace using local alignment, which will soft-clip mismatch regions, so adapters wouldn't pose much of a problem.
I would not combine reads with PEAR, you will have a mix of single and paired reads and that would introduce unnecessary complications on the differential gene expression analysis.
What are you trying to do?
Remove adapters and QC before anything else.
I will remove adapters and QC before thanks!
The end goal (what I am trying to do) is to map these reads to the mouse reference genome for differential gene expression