Sequencing is an advanced method in molecular biology that is key to understanding the mechanisms underlying life. Thanks to it, it is possible to identify genes coding for specific proteins, responsible for a specific feature of a given organism, or to learn the full sequence of genomes of organisms, which gives many opportunities for use in life.

What is sequencing?

Sequencing is a method of reading the order of nucleotide pairs in a DNA molecule. This gives the opportunity to learn about the genomes of all living organisms: plants, animals, bacteria, and also viruses, providing insight into their functioning and biological potential. Molecular biology techniques, which include sequencing, are used not only in scientific institutions but also in therapeutic and diagnostic and veterinary facilities, as well as in the agri-food industry.

Research using DNA sequencing

In scientific research carried out in universities and research and development units, sequencing entire genomes or their parts allows for characterizing a given organism and studying the basics of its functioning. In addition, sequencing allows you to monitor the course of experiments related to determining the influence of the environment on the structure and functioning of the genome. The most famous research initiatives are the international Human Genome Project. Its purpose was to determine the order of base pairs in the human genome as well as to identify genes in it. At that time, 99% of the genome was sequenced, and its size was estimated at 3.3 Gpz (billion base pairs), while the number of genes present in it, is about 22,300. This 13-year project can confidently be called a milestone in genetics and medicine, and its results make an invaluable contribution to areas such as genetic diagnostics and evolutionary biology.

Genetic research in medicine

Conducted research with the use of sequencing allowed for the identification of genes responsible for the inheritance of quantitative and qualitative traits, as well as causative mutations in relation to genetic diseases. This paved the way for the development of more effective methods of treatment and prevention of disease entities. Moreover, the determination of the etiology of genetic diseases offers the possibility of developing targeted therapeutic methods and treating previously fatal diseases with the help of gene therapies. The most spectacular achievement of molecular genetics is the development of a drug against spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1). A single administration of the preparation allows for a significant extension of life. Until now, a fatal genetic disease that took the lives of children before the age of 2 has become manageable thanks to a single administration of the preparation, which not only stops the progress of the disease but also gives hope for a significant improvement in the health of a small patient and his recovery to a partial fitness.

Sequencing in industry

DNA sequencing also opens up many new possibilities in the field of plant protection or the assessment of the breeding value of animals. It is also worth mentioning the invaluable possibilities offered by sequencing in the field of personal identification for forensics, or application in the modern food industry. Sequencing of DNA molecules contributed to the improvement of the quality and properties of products, including by selecting and modifying microorganisms with desired properties, as well as monitoring the safety of production in terms of microbiological purity.