What is next generation sequencing?

"Everyone is a writer" program aims to promote the sharing of knowledge and learning together. We encourage scientists, researchers, and students to answer the questions with their expertise and help  others learn from the answers. There are some answers about the next generation sequencing from this campaign.

Q: What is next generation sequencing?

A: Anh Nguyen: Next generation sequencing is a general term meant to describe sequencing techniques that have improved speed as compared to modern day techniques. It's like talking about a next generation car: general it means that it is better, specifically it can mean a variety of things. Development of next generation sequencing will allow scientist to sequence species faster, thus allow better understanding of the species and of biology in general. Learn More

Manini Penikalapati: Next generation sequencing is a broad term used to describe modern sequencing technologies. NGS allows for much more efficient DNA and RNA sequencing (quick and cheap) than Sanger sequencing. Sanger sequencing refers to the old method for determining the nucleotide sequence of DNA. Different technologies of NGS can simultaneously identify DNA bases and add them to a chain (Illumina sequencing) and detect pyrophosphate and proton release after nucleotides are added to a new strand (Roche 454 sequencing and Ion Torrent sequencing). Learn More 

Ayu Harnis: Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a DNA sequencing technology that has revolutionized genomic research. All human genomes can be sorted in one day using this technology. Before this technology was known, Sanger's sequencing technology was used to decipher the human genome, but it took more than a decade to produce the final design. NGS can capture a broader spectrum of mutations than Sanger sequencing. The spectrum of DNA variation in the human genome consists of base changes (substitution), insertion and deletion of DNA, removal of large genomes (exons) or entire genes and rearrangements such as inversions and translocations. Learn More

Lauren Escobed: Next generation sequencing is what we long for science. It’s a sequencing technology that has revolutionized science. It’s ultra high throughput, speed, and accuracy, NGS allows researchers to perform a variety of applications such as sample preparation and data analysis. It also allows researchers to sequence the whole genome, analyze epigenetic factors, study microbial diversity, and much more. It is also a powerful method of breaking through the inefficiency and expense of technologies such as microarrays. Moreover, next generation sequencing is a powerful tool for scientists to use to enhance their level of efficiency in their work. Learn More

Dickens Hall: Next generation sequencing (NGS) is any of several high-throughput approaches to DNA sequencing using the concept of massively parallel processing capable of producing large numbers of reads at exceptionally high coverages throughout the genome (Brenner,Sydney, et al., 2000 ). It has dramatically reduced the cost and time of DNA sequencing. An entire human genome can be sequenced within a single day. Learn More

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