Applications of DNA Sequencing in Biology

Overview

• Focus on DNA and gene sequencing techniques.
• High throughput and next-generation sequencing are current standards.
• Important to know:
  • Sanger or chain terminator technique (previous technique).
  • High throughput sequencing (current, more efficient).
  • Next-generation sequencing (current, more efficient).

DNA Sequencing Techniques

• High Throughput Sequencing: Uses massive parallel sequencing.
• Next-Generation Sequencing: Also uses massive parallel sequencing.

Massive Parallel Sequencing

• Sequencing multiple sets of DNA simultaneously using computational tools.

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

• Bioinformatics: Software development to process large amounts of DNA sequences.
• Computational Biology: Allows universal access and comparison of genetic data.
• Key points:
  • Universal genetic code (A, T, G, C).
  • Rapid comparison of new sequences with known databases.
  • Store information on amino acid sequences and protein structures.
  • Computer modeling of new protein structures.

Applications of Bioinformatics

Synthetic Biology

• Redesigning organism products for useful purposes.
• Biofabrication: Creating biodegradable natural fibers for products like coats, shoes, and furniture.

Epidemiology

• Comparing DNA sequences of new bacteria, viruses, etc., to known sequences.
• Identifying sources of outbreaks and vulnerable populations.
• Targeting vaccination programs based on genetic makeup.

Proteomics

• Study of proteins and their structures.
• Comparing known DNA and protein sequences to new genomes.

Comparative Genomics

• Universal applicability across all species.
• Phylogeny: Studying evolutionary relationships based on genetic similarity.
• Comparing genomes within and between species.

Conclusion

• Different gene sequencing techniques and their applications in biology.