sequenzbestimmung

Sequenzbestimmung refers to the process of determining the order of nucleotide bases in a DNA molecule or amino acids in a protein. This ordered sequence is fundamental to understanding the genetic code and the structure and function of biological molecules.

Historically, the determination of DNA sequences was a laborious process, with early methods like the Sanger sequencing method and the Maxam-Gilbert sequencing method being developed in the 1970s. These techniques relied on breaking down DNA fragments and analyzing the resulting molecules to deduce the original sequence.

With the advent of high-throughput sequencing technologies, often referred to as next-generation sequencing (NGS), the speed and scale of sequenzbestimmung have dramatically increased. NGS technologies allow for the simultaneous sequencing of millions of DNA fragments, leading to rapid and cost-effective generation of vast amounts of sequence data. This has revolutionized fields such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics.

The applications of sequenzbestimmung are wide-ranging. In medicine, it is used for diagnosing genetic diseases, identifying pathogens, and developing personalized treatments. In research, it helps in understanding gene function, evolutionary relationships between organisms, and the genetic basis of complex traits. The ability to accurately determine these molecular sequences is a cornerstone of modern biological science.