An Easy Guide to DNA Sequencing: Sanger Sequencing and Next-Gen Sequencing

DNA sequencing - is truly an important technology used in modern biology and medicine. Do you know why? Because it offers great meaningful insights into the genetic code - the code that basically underlies all living organisms.

So, whether you're a researcher, clinician or someone in need of DNA sequencing services - it’s important for you to understand the basics of this technology first.

If we explain what DNA sequencing is in easy terms - then it can be explained like this - DNA sequencing is a process that helps to determine the exact order of the nucleotides (like A, T, C, G) in a DNA molecule.

And, knowing the exact order of nucleotides is important because it provides the most vital information for a wide range of applications. Diagnosing genetic disorders, and advanced personalized medicine - all sectors need DNA sequencing.

When we talk about this sequencing thing - two technologies are premier to mention; one is Sanger sequencing and the other one is Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). Each of these methods has unique specific strengths but also some challenges.

Sanger DNA Sequencing:

See, Sanger sequencing is named after the pioneering scientist Frederick Sanger. This is one of the earliest and most reliable methods. And, it was developed to read DNA sequences. And, for many years, this process has been used widely in genetic research and diagnostics.

So, what is this process? Well, the process begins with preparing the DNA sample first. This beginning phase involves extracting and purifying the DNA from the cells. Once the sample is ready, the replication process begins. The DNA is mixed with primers, which are short DNA fragments that start the replication. DNA polymerase is added next - this is an enzyme that builds new DNA strands. A mix of normal nucleotides (A, T, C, G) and special chain-terminating nucleotides is also included. These chain-terminating nucleotides basically stop the replication when they are added to the DNA strand. As a result, it creates fragments of different lengths.

These fragments are then separated based on their size. And, the separation is done using a gel called gel electrophoresis. By finding the terminating nucleotide at the end of each fragment, the DNA sequence can be accurately determined.

Sanger sequencing offers high accuracy. And, this technique is more applicable to short DNA sequences. So, for sequencing individual genes or small regions of the genome - sanger sequencing is best.

But, there are some limitations. This Sanger method is time-consuming and labor-intensive. And, that’s why it is not that effective for large-scale projects, for instance - whole genome sequencing.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) :

Now, we will explain Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). This technique is more of an advanced and improved technology in DNA sequencing. It encompasses a variety of modern sequencing techniques. So, this advanced method allows for the rapid and simultaneous sequencing of large amounts of DNA. Amazing, right?

The process begins similarly to Sanger sequencing - like the preparation of the DNA sample. The DNA is fragmented into smaller pieces, and adapters are added to each fragment to simply proceed the sequencing process. These fragments are then amplified to create a library of DNA sequences.

NGS platforms use different methods to sequence these fragments in parallel. Some platforms use synthesis for sequencing while others prefer ligation for sequencing. Regardless of the specific technique, the result is amazing, which is the generation of massive amounts of data. Later this data is analyzed using powerful computational tools to reconstruct the DNA sequence.

Advanced NGS technique allows for the sequencing of entire genomes quickly and cost-effectively. So, it provides a deep coverage that can detect even rare genetic variations.

However, NGS demands something - like sophisticated equipment and expertise in bioinformatics. This process is really useful for large-scale projects and genomic research, clinical diagnostics and personalized medicine.

Bottom Line -

Bio Basic is a reliable online portal that is your go-to solution for DNA sequencing services. Whether it is about Sanger sequencing or Next-gen sequencing - we can offer all. Plus, we are a reliable supplier of high quality DNA extraction kits at the most competitive rates.

Plus, if you join our bi-monthly newsletter you will get 10% off your order!

We have more than 10 years of experience as a premier DNA Sequencing provider. We are best known for fast, efficient DNA sequencing services at the best rate.

If you want to request a quotation or place orders, you need to download our order form and email it to our sequencing department. We will reach you within 24 hours.

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