Key Advancements

The key advancements behind high-throughput sequencing are the parallelisation of the sequencing process producing millions of sequence reads concurrently and simplification of procedures.

This results in a significant reduction in time and costs allowing sequencing projects to be within the remit and expertise of an average research laboratory.

Uses

High-throughput sequencing can be used for whole-genome and region sequencing, transcriptome analysis, small RNA discovery, methylation profiling and genome-wide protein-nucleic acid interaction analysis.

High-throughput sequencing has already revolutionized molecular bacteriology, with impacts on model-organism biology, bacterial pathogenomics and evolution, antimicrobial resistance and vaccinology.

• Current projects exploiting high-throughput sequencing

Illumina MiSeq

Within the Division of Microbiology and Infection there is an Illumina MiSeq (pictured), a bench-top high-throughput high sequencer. Its cost effectiveness, short run times, high throughput per run, fast user-friendly workflow and minimal hands-on time make it ideal for researchers working to link basic science to clinical applications. Further information on the specifications of the Illumina MiSeq can be found on the manufacturer’s website.