New sequencing technologies
Sequencing at speed
The sequencing method pioneered by Fred Sanger in the 1970s has been the major method used to sequence DNA for thirty years. However, new sequencing technologies have emerged that enable centres like the Sanger Institute to generate thousands of millions of DNA letters per day. Like the Sanger method of DNA sequencing, the sequencing by synthesis method involves the use of fluorescently labeled nucleotides that terminate the sequencing reaction. However, this termination is reversible and the method involves millions of individual clones of DNA being sequenced on the surface of a flowcell at the same time. For more information about this method of sequencing watch the Sequencing at speed animation available on this page.
This avalanche of DNA data is driving new explorations of human disease. Researchers who study disease-causing organisms (pathogens) use high-speed sequencing to differentiate between strains, trace transmission routes and recognise responses to vaccination. Other researchers, who study complex diseases such as cancer and diabetes, are cataloguing changes throughout the genomes of a vast number of patient samples to understand the genetic changes that contribute to or cause these diseases.
However, the latest sequencing data presents a different set of challenges. Huge datasets require an IT infrastructure and added detail to make them accessible and useful. This race continues as newer, faster methods of sequencing DNA are developed.
