Next Gen Sequencing
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) refers to a group of advanced technologies that enable massively parallel or deep sequencing of selected regions or entire genomes. These sequencing methods have revolutionized genomics-based research, providing enhanced sequencing coverage and robust data analysis tools while significantly reducing costs. Although sequencing technologies have been in use for decades, the rapid advancements in NGS have expanded the possibilities for genome-wide analysis. NGS is now a key technology in both fundamental genomics research and disease studies, offering profound implications for a wide range of applications, including genetic variant detection, transcriptome analysis, and personalized medicine.
Overview
NGS Methods Overview
While the methodology and reagents for NGS are continuously evolving, there are now numerous NGS systems that are available to researchers. Commonly used platforms incorporate the use of several critical steps in the NGS workflow, including sample or library preparation, cluster generation, sequencing, and data analysis. Sample preparation typically involves either DNA amplification or the addition of sequence linkers or adaptors. Cluster generation of each DNA sequence is when DNA containing the covalently attached linker hybridizes to a solid surface for bridge PCR amplification, or by alternate methods such as emulsion PCR.
Additionally, there are many DNA sequencing methods, including sequencing by ligation, sequencing by synthesis, pyrosequencing, and ion semiconductor sequencing. Each sequencing method involves varying reaction steps and chemistries that ultimately determine the length of each sequence (read length), error rate, and reagent cost.
Analytical Approaches for NGS Data Analyses
A final element for all NGS workflows is the critical data analysis step that occurs after sequencing. While each NGS platform and workflow produce an enormous amount of digital information captured on computers, the raw data set must be analyzed by bioinformaticians using a continuously increasing number of analytical tools for read alignment and mapping, such as Bowtie, Galaxy, and many others.
Many of the developments in the field of NGS technologies have come from the merger of numerous scientific fields to develop and optimize the analysis and interpretation of such large data sets. Depending on the specific application needs, researchers are now able to use these powerful tools to sequence entire genomes, exomes, or transcriptomes for fundamental and disease research studies.