<?xml version="1.0" encoding="US-ASCII"?>
<!-- RR Donnelley Xcelerate Taxonomy Definition Linkbase, based on XBRL 2.1  http://www.rrdonnelley.com/ -->
<!-- Version: 6.21.0 -->
<!-- Round: 6 -->
<!-- Creation date: 2014-01-21T19:43:33Z -->
<!-- Copyright (c) 2005-2013 R.R. Donnelley &amp; Sons Company All Rights Reserved. -->
<linkbase xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase"
  xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance"
  xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"
  xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt"
  xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DocumentandEntityInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DocumentandEntityInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_StatementOfFinancialPositionClassified" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassified"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_StatementOfFinancialPositionClassifiedParen" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassifiedParenthetical"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_StatementOfIncomeAlternative" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfIncomeAlternative"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_StatementOfShareholdersEquityAndOtherComprehensiveIncome" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfShareholdersEquityAndOtherComprehensiveIncome"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_StatementOfShareholdersEquityAndOtherComprehensiveIncomeParen" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfShareholdersEquityAndOtherComprehensiveIncomeParenthetical"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_StatementOfCashFlowsIndirect" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfCashFlowsIndirect"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureDescriptionOfBusinessAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDescriptionOfBusinessAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureCustomersRepresentedMoreThan10OfTotalAccountsReceivable" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCustomersRepresentedMoreThan10OfTotalAccountsReceivable"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureScheduleOfAvailableForSaleSecuritiesByLevelWithinFairValueHierarchy" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureScheduleOfAvailableForSaleSecuritiesByLevelWithinFairValueHierarchy"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureInformationReconcilesChangesInCompanysWarrantyReserveAndRelatedCosts" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureInformationReconcilesChangesInCompanysWarrantyReserveAndRelatedCosts"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfAvailableForSaleSecurities"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureFairValuesOfAvailableforSaleSecuritiesByContractualMaturity" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFairValuesOfAvailableforSaleSecuritiesByContractualMaturity"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureInventoryScheduleOfInventory" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureInventoryScheduleOfInventory"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosurePrepaidExpensesAndOther" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosurePrepaidExpensesAndOther"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureComponentsOfPropertyAndEquipment" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureComponentsOfPropertyAndEquipment"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureCompositionOfAccruedLiability" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCompositionOfAccruedLiability"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsComponentsOfBorrowingsIncludingCurrentPortion" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsComponentsOfBorrowingsIncludingCurrentPortion"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsScheduledFuturePaymentsForPrincipalObligationsUnderOutstandingDebtFacilities" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsScheduledFuturePaymentsForPrincipalObligationsUnderOutstandingDebtFacilities"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureCommonStockAndPreferredStockAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCommonStockAndPreferredStockAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfOutstandingConvertiblePreferredStockWarrants" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfOutstandingConvertiblePreferredStockWarrants"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureCarryingValueOfWarrantsToPurchaseSharesOfPreferredStock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCarryingValueOfWarrantsToPurchaseSharesOfPreferredStock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureStockOptionPlansAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockOptionPlansAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfCompanysStockOptionActivity" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfCompanysStockOptionActivity"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSummarizesInformationAboutCompanysOptionsOutstanding" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummarizesInformationAboutCompanysOptionsOutstanding"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureWeightedAverageAssumptionsUsedInDeterminationOfFairValueOfOptions" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureWeightedAverageAssumptionsUsedInDeterminationOfFairValueOfOptions"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfStockOptionGranted" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfStockOptionGranted"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureStockCompensationExpense" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockCompensationExpense"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureLossBeforeIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLossBeforeIncomeTaxes"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxExpensebenefitDifferedFromAmountsComputedByApplyingStatutoryFederalIncomeTaxRate" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxExpensebenefitDifferedFromAmountsComputedByApplyingStatutoryFederalIncomeTaxRate"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureEffectOfTemporaryDifferencesAndCarryforwardsThatGiveRiseToDeferredTaxAssets" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureEffectOfTemporaryDifferencesAndCarryforwardsThatGiveRiseToDeferredTaxAssets"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSummarizesChangesInDeferredTaxAssetValuationAllowance" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummarizesChangesInDeferredTaxAssetValuationAllowance"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureTotalBalanceOfUnrecognizedGrossTaxBenefits" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureTotalBalanceOfUnrecognizedGrossTaxBenefits"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureFutureMinimumLeasePaymentsUnderNoncancelableOperatingLeases" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFutureMinimumLeasePaymentsUnderNoncancelableOperatingLeases"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSegmentReportingAdditionalInformation" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentReportingAdditionalInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSegmentReportingOperatingResultsAndReconciliationOfSegmentProfitToLossFromOperations" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentReportingOperatingResultsAndReconciliationOfSegmentProfitToLossFromOperations"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureSegmentReportingClassificationOfRevenueByGeography" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentReportingClassificationOfRevenueByGeography"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureReconciliationOfTheNumeratorAndDenominatorUsedInComputingBasicAndDilutedNetLossPerShare" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureReconciliationOfTheNumeratorAndDenominatorUsedInComputingBasicAndDilutedNetLossPerShare"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#DisclosureNetLossPerShareOutstandingOptionsWarrantsAndPreferredStockExcludedFromComputationOfBasicAndDilutedNetLossPerShare" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureNetLossPerShareOutstandingOptionsWarrantsAndPreferredStockExcludedFromComputationOfBasicAndDilutedNetLossPerShare"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsBusinessDescriptionAndBasisOfPresentationTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsBusinessDescriptionAndBasisOfPresentationTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockPolicies" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockPolicies"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsInvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsInvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsInventoryDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInventoryDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsInventoryDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInventoryDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsPrepaidExpensesAndOtherTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPrepaidExpensesAndOtherTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsPrepaidExpensesAndOtherTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPrepaidExpensesAndOtherTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsDebtDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDebtDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsDebtDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDebtDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsRelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsRelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsSegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsSegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlockTables" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlockTables"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#Role_NotesToFinancialStatementsSubsequentEventsTextBlock" roleURI="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSubsequentEventsTextBlock"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension"/>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DocumentandEntityInformation">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassified">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_AssetBackedLoansAndOtherInvestedAssets" xlink:label="nstg_AssetBackedLoansAndOtherInvestedAssets"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredOfferingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredOfferingCosts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenueNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PreferredStockWarrantLiabilities" xlink:label="nstg_PreferredStockWarrantLiabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityValueExcludingAdditionalPaidInCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityValueExcludingAdditionalPaidInCapital"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" order="1.3700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent" order="1.3800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredOfferingCosts" order="1.3900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" order="1.4000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="nstg_AssetBackedLoansAndOtherInvestedAssets" order="1.4100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" order="1.4200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryNet" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" order="1.1900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueNoncurrent" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditNoncurrent" order="1.2300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" order="1.2400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="nstg_PreferredStockWarrantLiabilities" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAbstract" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditCurrent" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityValueExcludingAdditionalPaidInCapital" order="1.3600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassifiedParenthetical">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityLiquidationPreference" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityLiquidationPreference"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityParOrStatedValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityParOrStatedValuePerShare" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesAuthorized" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityLiquidationPreference" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfIncomeAlternative">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfShareholdersEquityAndOtherComprehensiveIncome">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_AccretionOfPreferredStock" xlink:label="nstg_AccretionOfPreferredStock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesOther"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueOther"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterests" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterests"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityNetIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityNetIncome"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_TemporaryEquityStockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="nstg_TemporaryEquityStockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterests" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_AccretionOfPreferredStock" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_TemporaryEquityStockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValue" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityNetIncome" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesOther" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueOther" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfShareholdersEquityAndOtherComprehensiveIncomeParenthetical">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_StockIssuedIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="nstg_StockIssuedIssuanceCosts"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_StockIssuedIssuanceCosts" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfCashFlowsIndirect">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDescriptionOfBusinessAdditionalInformation">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:label="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredOfferingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredOfferingCosts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ManufacturingEquipmentMember" xlink:label="nstg_ManufacturingEquipmentMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ProductWarrantyAccrualPeriod" xlink:label="nstg_ProductWarrantyAccrualPeriod"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SalesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SalesMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredOfferingCosts" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ProductWarrantyAccrualPeriod" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SalesMember" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ManufacturingEquipmentMember" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCustomersRepresentedMoreThan10OfTotalAccountsReceivable">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CustomeraMember" xlink:label="nstg_CustomeraMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CustomerBMember" xlink:label="nstg_CustomerBMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_CustomeraMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_CustomerBMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureScheduleOfAvailableForSaleSecuritiesByLevelWithinFairValueHierarchy">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksDisclosureInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksDisclosureInformationLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PreferredStockWarrantsLiabilityMember" xlink:label="nstg_PreferredStockWarrantsLiabilityMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksDisclosureInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksDisclosureInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecurities" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PreferredStockWarrantsLiabilityMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFairValueOffBalanceSheetRisksTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" order="3.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureInformationReconcilesChangesInCompanysWarrantyReserveAndRelatedCosts">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfAvailableForSaleSecurities">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedGainsAccumulatedInInvestments" xlink:label="nstg_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedGainsAccumulatedInInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedLossAccumulatedInInvestments" xlink:label="nstg_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedLossAccumulatedInInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:label="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTable" xlink:label="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedGainsAccumulatedInInvestments" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedLossAccumulatedInInvestments" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfShortTermInvestmentsAndAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFairValuesOfAvailableforSaleSecuritiesByContractualMaturity">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureInventoryScheduleOfInventory">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosurePrepaidExpensesAndOther">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureComponentsOfPropertyAndEquipment">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ManufacturingEquipmentMember" xlink:label="nstg_ManufacturingEquipmentMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLives" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLives"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PrototypesAndOtherEquipmentMember" xlink:label="nstg_PrototypesAndOtherEquipmentMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLives" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ManufacturingEquipmentMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PrototypesAndOtherEquipmentMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentAdditionalInformation">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCompositionOfAccruedLiability">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsAdditionalInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_AccountsReceivableFacilityMember" xlink:label="nstg_AccountsReceivableFacilityMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligations"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CapitalLeasesInterestRate" xlink:label="nstg_CapitalLeasesInterestRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CapitalLeasesTerm" xlink:label="nstg_CapitalLeasesTerm"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTerm" xlink:label="nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTerm"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_DebtInstrumentFloorRate" xlink:label="nstg_DebtInstrumentFloorRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateAtPeriodEnd" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateAtPeriodEnd"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYearAndMonth" xlink:label="nstg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYearAndMonth"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquipmentMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_LeaseExpirationMonthYear" xlink:label="nstg_LeaseExpirationMonthYear"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_LineCreditFacilityAdditionalBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="nstg_LineCreditFacilityAdditionalBorrowingCapacity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OfficeBuildingMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OfficeBuildingMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrimeRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrimeRateMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfDebt"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_RevolvingCreditLineMember" xlink:label="nstg_RevolvingCreditLineMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_TermLoanFacilityMember" xlink:label="nstg_TermLoanFacilityMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_2"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.3600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="nstg_TermLoanFacilityMember" order="1.2300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="nstg_RevolvingCreditLineMember" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="nstg_AccountsReceivableFacilityMember" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" order="3.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" order="4.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" order="5.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYearAndMonth" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_DebtInstrumentFloorRate" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateAtPeriodEnd" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfDebt" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTerm" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_LineCreditFacilityAdditionalBorrowingCapacity" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_CapitalLeasesTerm" order="1.1900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_LeaseExpirationMonthYear" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligations" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ProformaDebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_CapitalLeasesInterestRate" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OfficeBuildingMember" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquipmentMember" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" order="1.2400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrimeRateMember" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsComponentsOfBorrowingsIncludingCurrentPortion">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongtermDebtAndObligationsScheduledFuturePaymentsForPrincipalObligationsUnderOutstandingDebtFacilities">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCommonStockAndPreferredStockAdditionalInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfVotingInterestsAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfVotingInterestsAcquired"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisablePeriod" xlink:label="nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisablePeriod"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfWarrantsExercised" xlink:label="nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfWarrantsExercised"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ClassOfWarrantsOrRightExercisesInPeriodExercisePrice" xlink:label="nstg_ClassOfWarrantsOrRightExercisesInPeriodExercisePrice"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:label="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:label="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContingentConvertiblePreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContingentConvertiblePreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConvertiblePreferredStockSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConvertiblePreferredStockSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ConvertiblePreferredStockWarrantsLiability" xlink:label="nstg_ConvertiblePreferredStockWarrantsLiability"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebt"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebtMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebtMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtConversionOriginalDebtAmount1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtConversionOriginalDebtAmount1"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExercisePrice"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PercentageOfOutstandingPreferredShareholdersVoteRequiredForConversion" xlink:label="nstg_PercentageOfOutstandingPreferredShareholdersVoteRequiredForConversion"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockConversionBasis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockConversionBasis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PreferredStockConversionRatio" xlink:label="nstg_PreferredStockConversionRatio"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PreferredStockPricePerShare" xlink:label="nstg_PreferredStockPricePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionTerms" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionTerms"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockPreferenceStockAndWarrants" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockPreferenceStockAndWarrants"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_RedemptionNoticePeriod" xlink:label="nstg_RedemptionNoticePeriod"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepurchaseAgreementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepurchaseAgreementsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_Scenario1Member" xlink:label="nstg_Scenario1Member"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionBySettlementTermsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionBySettlementTermsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesIssuedPricePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesIssuedPricePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValueAdjustment" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValueAdjustment"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityLiquidationPreferencePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityLiquidationPreferencePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_WarrantLiabilitiesAllocatedToConvertiblePreferred" xlink:label="nstg_WarrantLiabilitiesAllocatedToConvertiblePreferred"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WarrantMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_WarrantMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" order="1.3700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.4600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.4700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.4800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" order="1.4900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ClassOfWarrantsOrRightExercisesInPeriodExercisePrice" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockPreferenceStockAndWarrants" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfWarrantsExercised" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_WarrantLiabilitiesAllocatedToConvertiblePreferred" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_PreferredStockPricePerShare" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesIssuedPricePerShare" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebt" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtConversionOriginalDebtAmount1" order="1.1900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisablePeriod" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExercisePrice" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm" order="1.2300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" order="1.2400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfVotingInterestsAcquired" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityLiquidationPreferencePerShare" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockConversionBasis" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_PreferredStockConversionRatio" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_PercentageOfOutstandingPreferredShareholdersVoteRequiredForConversion" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionTerms" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionDate" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_RedemptionNoticePeriod" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityAccretionToRedemptionValueAdjustment" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ConvertiblePreferredStockWarrantsLiability" order="1.3600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="3.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" order="4.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis" order="5.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionBySettlementTermsAxis" order="6.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" order="7.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_CommonAndPreferredStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" order="8.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_WarrantMember" order="1.4400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueOptionEligibleItemOrGroupDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContingentConvertiblePreferredStockMember" order="1.4100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepurchaseAgreementsMember" order="1.3800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebtMember" order="1.3900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" order="1.4000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" order="1.4500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="nstg_Scenario1Member" order="1.4200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionBySettlementTermsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionBySettlementTermsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SharesSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionFinancialInstrumentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConvertiblePreferredStockSubjectToMandatoryRedemptionMember" order="1.4300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfOutstandingConvertiblePreferredStockWarrants">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ClassOfWarrantsIssueDate" xlink:label="nstg_ClassOfWarrantsIssueDate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ClassOfWarrantsOrRightExpirationDate" xlink:label="nstg_ClassOfWarrantsOrRightExpirationDate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodAxis" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodEighteenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodEighteenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodFifteenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodFifteenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodNineteenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodNineteenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodSeventeenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodSeventeenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodSixteenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodSixteenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodTwentyMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodTwentyMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodTwentyOneMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodTwentyOneMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodTwentyTwoMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodTwentyTwoMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesCPreferredStockMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesDPreferredStockMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesEPreferredStockMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ClassOfWarrantsIssueDate" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ClassOfWarrantsOrRightExpirationDate" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodAxis" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodAxis" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodFifteenMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodSixteenMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodSeventeenMember" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodEighteenMember" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodNineteenMember" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodTwentyMember" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodTwentyOneMember" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodTwentyTwoMember" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCarryingValueOfWarrantsToPurchaseSharesOfPreferredStock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockOptionPlansAdditionalInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_GroupOneMember" xlink:label="nstg_GroupOneMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_GroupTwoMember" xlink:label="nstg_GroupTwoMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:label="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsTable" xlink:label="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingAndExercisablePeriod" xlink:label="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingAndExercisablePeriod"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardTermsOfAward1" xlink:label="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardTermsOfAward1"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_TwoThousandAndThirteenEquityIncentiveAwardPlanMember" xlink:label="nstg_TwoThousandAndThirteenEquityIncentiveAwardPlanMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardTermsOfAward1" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingAndExercisablePeriod" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_ScheduleOfStockOptionsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="nstg_TwoThousandAndThirteenEquityIncentiveAwardPlanMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_GroupOneMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_GroupTwoMember" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfCompanysStockOptionActivity">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummarizesInformationAboutCompanysOptionsOutstanding">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ExercisePriceRangeFiveMember" xlink:label="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeFiveMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ExercisePriceRangeFourMember" xlink:label="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeFourMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ExercisePriceRangeOneMember" xlink:label="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeOneMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ExercisePriceRangeSixMember" xlink:label="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeSixMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ExercisePriceRangeThreeMember" xlink:label="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeThreeMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ExercisePriceRangeTwoMember" xlink:label="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeTwoMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeOneMember" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeTwoMember" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeThreeMember" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeFourMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeFiveMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ExercisePriceRangeSixMember" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureWeightedAverageAssumptionsUsedInDeterminationOfFairValueOfOptions">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummaryOfStockOptionGranted">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodAxis" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodEightMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodEightMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodElevenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodElevenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodFiveMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodFiveMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodFourMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodFourMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodFourteenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodFourteenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodNineMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodNineMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodOneMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodOneMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodSixMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodSixMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodTenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodTenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodThirteenMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodThirteenMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodThreeMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodThreeMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodTwelveMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodTwelveMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_PeriodTwoMember" xlink:label="nstg_PeriodTwoMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfOptionsGranted" xlink:label="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfOptionsGranted"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsEstimatedFairValuePerShare" xlink:label="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsEstimatedFairValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValuePerShare" xlink:label="nstg_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantedWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantedWeightedAverageExercisePrice"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodAxis" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodOneMember" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodTwoMember" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodThreeMember" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodFourMember" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodFiveMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodSixMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodEightMember" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodNineMember" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodTenMember" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodElevenMember" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodTwelveMember" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodThirteenMember" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_PeriodDomain" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodFourteenMember" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfOptionsGranted" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantedWeightedAverageExercisePrice" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsEstimatedFairValuePerShare" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValuePerShare" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="nstg_PeriodAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockCompensationExpense">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_CostOfRevenueMember" xlink:label="nstg_CostOfRevenueMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_StockBasedCompensationLineItems" xlink:label="nstg_StockBasedCompensationLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_StockBasedCompensationTable" xlink:label="nstg_StockBasedCompensationTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="nstg_CostOfRevenueMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="nstg_StockBasedCompensationLineItems" xlink:to="nstg_StockBasedCompensationTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="nstg_StockBasedCompensationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="nstg_StockBasedCompensationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLossBeforeIncomeTaxes">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxAdditionalInformation">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxExpensebenefitDifferedFromAmountsComputedByApplyingStatutoryFederalIncomeTaxRate">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureEffectOfTemporaryDifferencesAndCarryforwardsThatGiveRiseToDeferredTaxAssets">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSummarizesChangesInDeferredTaxAssetValuationAllowance">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureTotalBalanceOfUnrecognizedGrossTaxBenefits">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformation">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFutureMinimumLeasePaymentsUnderNoncancelableOperatingLeases">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsAdditionalInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ChiefExecutiveOfficerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChiefExecutiveOfficerMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ChiefMedicalOfficerMember" xlink:label="nstg_ChiefMedicalOfficerMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DueFromRelatedParties" xlink:label="us-gaap_DueFromRelatedParties"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionRate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChiefExecutiveOfficerMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ChiefMedicalOfficerMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DueFromRelatedParties" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionRate" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentReportingAdditionalInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportableGeographicalComponentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportableGeographicalComponentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2013/country-2013-01-31.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportableGeographicalComponentsMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_US" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentReportingOperatingResultsAndReconciliationOfSegmentProfitToLossFromOperations">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ConsumablesMember" xlink:label="nstg_ConsumablesMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_DiagnosticsMember" xlink:label="nstg_DiagnosticsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_InstrumentsMember" xlink:label="nstg_InstrumentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_LifeScienceMember" xlink:label="nstg_LifeScienceMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaterialReconcilingItemsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaterialReconcilingItemsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ServiceMember" xlink:label="nstg_ServiceMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_2"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaterialReconcilingItemsMember" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="nstg_InstrumentsMember" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ConsumablesMember" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" order="3.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" order="4.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="nstg_LifeScienceMember" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="nstg_DiagnosticsMember" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductMember" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsegmentsConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ServiceMember" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentReportingClassificationOfRevenueByGeography">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AsiaPacificMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AsiaPacificMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_EuropeAndMiddleEastMember" xlink:label="nstg_EuropeAndMiddleEastMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NorthAmericaMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NorthAmericaMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportableGeographicalComponentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportableGeographicalComponentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportableGeographicalComponentsMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" order="2.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NorthAmericaMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="nstg_EuropeAndMiddleEastMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AsiaPacificMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentGeographicalDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureReconciliationOfTheNumeratorAndDenominatorUsedInComputingBasicAndDilutedNetLossPerShare">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/DisclosureNetLossPerShareOutstandingOptionsWarrantsAndPreferredStockExcludedFromComputationOfBasicAndDilutedNetLossPerShare">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConvertiblePreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConvertiblePreferredStockMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nstg-20130930.xsd#nstg_ConvertiblePreferredStockWarrantsMember" xlink:label="nstg_ConvertiblePreferredStockWarrantsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockOptionMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WarrantMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_WarrantMember"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockOptionMember" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConvertiblePreferredStockMember" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="nstg_ConvertiblePreferredStockWarrantsMember" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_WarrantMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsBusinessDescriptionAndBasisOfPresentationTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockPolicies">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockTables">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfProductWarrantyLiabilityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfProductWarrantyLiabilityTableTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SchedulesOfConcentrationOfRiskByRiskFactorTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SchedulesOfConcentrationOfRiskByRiskFactorTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2013/elts/us-gaap-2013-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeCategorizationMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SchedulesOfConcentrationOfRiskByRiskFactorTextBlock" order="1.0100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfProductWarrantyLiabilityTableTextBlock" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInventoryDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsInventoryDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPrepaidExpensesAndOtherTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPrepaidExpensesAndOtherTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDebtDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDebtDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsRelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlockTables">
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://imetrix.edgar-online.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSubsequentEventsTextBlock">
  </definitionLink>
</linkbase>
