Sequencing DNA

• The genome of an organism is its entire hereditary information encoded in DNA.
• A genome is made up of genes and other DNA sequences that do not code for proteins.
• In genomic sequencing the sequence of nucleotide bases can be determined for individual genes and entire genomes.
• Computer programs can be used to identify base sequences by looking for sequences similar to known genes.
• To compare sequence data, computer and statistical analyses (bioinformatics) are required

• An individual’s genome can be analysed to predict the likelihood of developing certain diseases.
• Pharmacogenetics is the use of genome information in the choice of drugs.
• An individual’s personal genome sequence can be used to select the most effective drugs and dosage to treat their disease (personalised medicine).