Chapter 20, Problem 1IQ

In what ways would third-generation sequencing be different from sequencing by synthesis?

Summary Introduction

To describe: The ways in which third-generation sequencing is different from sequencing by synthesis.

Introduction: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing is a process used to determine a sequence of nucleotide bases in a piece of DNA. Sequencing the whole genome of an organism remains difficult. The DNA sequencing process requires the breaking of a genome into small pieces and sequencing those small pieces to determine the nucleotide sequence of the genome. Several techniques have been available for DNA sequencing process.

Explanation of Solution

The third-generation sequencing is also called long-read sequencing technology. The third generation sequencing continues to reduce the expense of DNA sequencing. In this sequencing method a long single-stranded DNA is sequenced on its own. It does not involve the process of complementary strand synthesis or ligation of short DNA fragments whereas sequencing by synthesis involves the amplification of DNA fragment to yield many identical copies. From these identical copies, a specific strand from each identical copy is immobilized and its complementary strand is synthesized.