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Next-generation sequencing technologies are beginning to facilitate genome sequencing. But in addition, new applications and new assay concepts have emerged that are vastly increasing our ability to understand genome function.
A new generation of non-Sanger-based sequencing technologies has delivered on its promise of sequencing DNA at unprecedented speed, thereby enabling impressive scientific achievements and novel biological applications. However, before stepping into the limelight, next-generation sequencing had to overcome the inertia of a field that relied on Sanger-sequencing for 30 years.