Discuss the methodology and applications of third generation sequencing technology.
Methodology of Third Generation Sequencing Technology:
One of the recent advances in DNA sequencing technology is the use of nanopores for DNA sequencing. This technology uses two proteins: DNA helicase and porins like molecules. The DNA helicase binds and unwinds the double stranded DNA, while the porins like molecules help push the single stranded DNA through them to identify the base pattern.
This technique is simple, rapid, and cost efficient compared to previous generation technologies. It displays results in real-time, making it significantly faster than first and second generation methods that require multiple steps like cloning, subcloning, and complex computational assembly.
Applications of Third Generation Sequencing Technology:
This technology is useful for genotyping and high mobility testing. Unlike next generation sequencing that generates short reads (75 to 300 base long), nanopore sequencing can handle longer sequences more efficiently.
Additionally, advances in sequencing technologies have enabled applications like ChipSeq for mapping genome-wide DNA binding sites of transcription regulators, and RNASeq for studying global gene expression profiles (transcriptome) of organisms. Metagenomics involves sequencing DNA or cDNA present in microbial communities, which benefits from these advanced sequencing capabilities.
Explanation
The question asks about third generation sequencing technology. While the context does not explicitly use the term 'third generation', it describes 'recent advances' in DNA sequencing technology, specifically nanopore sequencing, which follows the discussion of first and second generation technologies. The context provides detailed methodology (DNA helicase and porins) and applications (genotyping, real-time results). The answer also incorporates related advanced applications mentioned in the context like ChipSeq, RNASeq, and Metagenomics that utilize modern sequencing technologies.