Whole-genome sequencing

Definition

Whole-genome sequencing is the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome at a single time. It provides comprehensive information about genetic variation and can be used in research, diagnostics, and personalized medicine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Whole-genome sequencing involves sequencing all of an organism's DNA, including both coding and non-coding regions.
2. It is more comprehensive than other methods like exome sequencing, which only targets the coding regions.
3. The technology has advanced rapidly, making whole-genome sequencing faster and more cost-effective compared to earlier methods.
4. Applications include identifying genetic disorders, tracking disease outbreaks, and studying evolutionary biology.
5. Bioinformatics tools are essential for analyzing the massive amount of data generated by whole-genome sequencing.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes whole-genome sequencing from exome sequencing?
• List two major applications of whole-genome sequencing in biology or medicine.
• Why are bioinformatics tools crucial for whole-genome sequencing?

Related terms

Exome Sequencing: A technique that sequences only the protein-coding regions of the genome.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP): A variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals.

Bioinformatics: An interdisciplinary field that develops methods and software tools for understanding biological data.