Next generation sequencing (NGS), also known as massively parallel sequencing, is a revolutionary technique in the life sciences, making it possible to sequence entire genomes in a fraction of the time needed for other methods. By reading millions or even billions of short DNA or RNA fragments in parallel, NGS technologies allow for higher throughput in shorter runtimes and help ensure full coverage and accuracy in sequencing.
In addition to whole genome sequencing (WGS) for research or clinical purposes, NGS can be used for whole exome sequencing (WES), targeted sequencing of specific genome regions of interest, transcriptome profiling through RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), epigenetic and metagenomic analyses, and more. NGS allows life science researchers to study genetic variation, discover new species, investigate pathogens such as viruses and bacteria, and better understand how our genes impact our daily lives and our health.
The typical NGS workflow consists of three main steps (after nucleic acid extraction and purification) – library construction, sequencing, and data analysis. Among these steps, library construction is critical as it prepares the nucleic acid sample to attach to the flow cell and be sequenced in a massively parallel fashion. Without this step, the sample would not be compatible with the NGS instrumentation, and would not allow for the short reads that give the technique its characteristic speed and throughput.
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