Introduction
Next generation sequencing is a type of DNA sequencing technology that provides a rapid and cost effective way to sequence large amounts of DNA. This technology has increased in popularity because it produces reliable results at lower costs than other technologies, such as the Sanger method. This article will explore what next generation sequencing is, discuss the benefits and limitations of this method, and provide some examples of its use.
Definition
Next-generation sequencing is also known as NGS; this process allows for high throughputs of millions or billions of sequences. This method is a very cost effective way to sequence DNA because of its high throughput. In a single run, these machines can produce millions of reads in hours, whereas traditional sequencing takes days or weeks. In next-generation sequencing, the raw data are processed by computers which then assemble the sequences into contigs before they are submitted to databases such as Genbank. These databases store all of the sequencing that has been done on an organism, whether it is one sample or data from many different samples
What are the benefits of next-generation sequencing?
One of the main benefits of next generation sequencing is that it is a cost effective way to sequence DNA. This technology can sequence a human genome in two days at a cost of only $5000. Compare this to the Sanger method which costs over $100,000 and takes years to complete this task. Another benefit that comes with this technology is that it produces more accurate results than the Sanger method. In the process of Sanger sequencing, individual errors can change the entire sequence. In next generation sequencing, only one error like a base mismatched can change the entire sequence, and in most cases only a few will be present.
Limitations of next-generation sequencing
Next-generation sequencing has its limitations as well; it is prone to errors, and this is why there is such emphasis on quality control in the lab. It also has a cost which may not be suitable for certain research projects or specific purposes. The cost of the process is a limiting factor for some researchers in the medical field, for example if a doctor needs to sequence an organ that costs over $100000 to process. Another limitation is the time it takes for this method to complete; early on in this technology many years were taken to sequence an entire genome.