Longevity science

Today’s standard sequencing method uses an indirect approach to DNA sequencing based on fluorescently-tagged nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA. However, Ion Torrent has developed a simple, yet ingenious way to detect the sequence of nucleotides in a sample of DNA. Exploiting the fact that a hydrogen ion is released whenever a nucleotide attaches to a strand of DNA, sensors in Ion Torrent’s microchip have been designed to detect this chemical signature.

 

Equality in gene sequencing ahead?

For the first time, researchers have sequenced DNA molecules without the need for the standard pre-sequencing workflow known as library preparation.

Using this approach, the researchers generated sequence data using considerably less DNA than is required using standard methods, even down to less than one nanogram of DNA; 500 times less DNA than is needed by standard practices.

Scientists have long thought that part of our genetic code was redundant. Further, they thought that the redundant code contained only duplicate information. A new discovery indicates that the redundant bits contain unique and speed-related instructions for protein formation.

“By measuring the rate of protein production in bacteria, the team discovered that slight genetic alterations could have a dramatic effect. This was true even for seemingly insignificant genetic changes known as “silent mutations,” which swap out a single DNA letter without changing the ultimate gene product. To their surprise, the scientists found these changes can slow the protein production process to one-tenth of its normal speed or less.”

“This new discovery challenges half a century of fundamental assumptions in biology. It may also help speed up the industrial production of proteins, which is crucial for making biofuels and biological drugs used to treat many common diseases, ranging from diabetes to cancer.”