Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) or massive parallel sequencing is any of several high-throughput approaches to DNA sequencing using the concept of massively parallel processing; it is also called massively parallel sequencing or second-generation sequencing. These technologies use miniaturized and parallelized platforms for sequencing of 1 million to 43 billion short reads (50 to 400 bases each) per instrument run. Many NGS platforms differ in engineering configurations and sequencing chemistry. They share the technical paradigm of massive parallel sequencing via spatially separated, clonally amplified DNA templates or single DNA molecules in a flow cell. This design is very different from that of Sanger sequencing—also known as capillary sequencing or first-generation sequencing—which is based on electrophoretic separation of chain-termination products produced in individual sequencing reactions.