Sequencing Genomes and Beyond

DNA sequence analysis is a multistage process that includes the preparation of DNA, its fragmentation and base analysis, and the interpretation of the resulting sequence information. In the last 10 years, sequencing costs have dropped 100-fold. To continue progress in the field, innovations, such as microfabricated lab-on-a-chip devices, are needed. Revolutionary, non gel-based methods, such as mass spectrometry, single-molecule sequencing, and nanopore technology, hold great promise for simplifying and are discussed here.