logo
AAT Bioquest

What is the significance of DNA sequencing?

Posted March 8, 2022


Answer

DNA sequencing refers to a laboratory technique that’s used to determine the exact sequence of nucleic acids that form the basic units of a DNA molecule. It provides researchers with vital information about the arrangement of nucleotide bases in a DNA fragment and the kind of genetic information that is carried in a particular DNA segment.

DNA sequencing is an important aspect in several different biotechnology fields. 

In medical biotechnology, DNA sequencing helps in identifying the causes of genetic disorders and methods to cure them. It is also integral to the development of gene therapy, a specialized treatment that replaces faulty genes in certain genetic disorders.

In forensic biotechnology, DNA sequencing is a key step in DNA profiling or genetic fingerprinting.

In microbial biotechnology, DNA sequencing forms the basis of microbial genome analysis.

In pharmaceutical biotechnology, DNA sequencing is useful in analyzing how an individual’s response to a drug is affected by their genome variations. This helps to determine which drug will offer the best outcome in that individual.

DNA sequencing also makes it possible to identify GMO species in agricultural biotechnology.

In animal biotechnology, DNA sequencing of domestic animals helps to better understand the evolutionary relationships between species.

Additional resources

Forensic DNA and bioinformatics

dTTP *100 mM PCR Grade*