Sekvení

Sekvení refers to the process of determining the order of nucleotides within a DNA or RNA molecule. This order, known as the sequence, is fundamental to genetics as it encodes the instructions for building and operating an organism. Understanding DNA and RNA sequences allows scientists to study gene function, identify genetic mutations, and diagnose diseases.

The development of DNA sequencing technologies has revolutionized biology. Early methods, like the Sanger sequencing method developed in the 1970s, allowed for the determination of relatively short DNA fragments. Over time, technological advancements led to the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, which can sequence millions or even billions of DNA fragments simultaneously. These high-throughput methods have dramatically reduced the cost and increased the speed of sequencing, making whole-genome sequencing more accessible.

The applications of sekvení are vast. In medicine, it aids in personalized treatment strategies, drug discovery, and the identification of pathogens. In evolutionary biology, sequencing helps trace evolutionary relationships between species. It is also crucial in agriculture for crop improvement and in forensic science for identifying individuals. The interpretation of sequence data often involves sophisticated bioinformatics tools and databases.