Next-Generation Sequencing and Data Analysis

Abstract Current sequencing platforms are characterized by an increased throughput of data, short reads, and low costs. These platforms have changed the way genome studies are conducted because the information from a full eukaryote genome can be sequenced in a single run with several times coverage. Many areas in genomics have been adapted to work with the short reads produced by these new platforms. For example, in the de novo and reference assembly of genomes, new algorithms have been developed to handle short reads with high coverage, thus ensuring the construction of high-quality genomes. Transcriptomics has also been affected because it is currently possible to fully characterize the gene expression profile of an organism, rather than just a few genes. Furthermore, the assembly of new transcripts for the identification of new genes is now possible due to this high sequencing coverage. Finally, metagenomic studies are now able to characterize all organisms in a particular microbial community, instead of only identifying certain markers, without a reference genome.