Key Differences Between Old and New Sequencing Methods

1. Technology Used:

   • Old methods, like Sanger sequencing, use special chemicals that stop the process at certain points.
   • New methods, called Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), can read many pieces of DNA at the same time.

2. Output:

   • Sanger sequencing gives about 90-100 DNA pieces each time.
   • NGS can create millions of pieces, reading billions of DNA bases in one go!

3. Cost:

   • Sanger sequencing costs about £5 for each base of DNA.
   • With NGS, that cost drops to less than £0.01 for each base!

4. Time Efficiency:

   • Old methods can take weeks to finish.
   • NGS can wrap up the sequencing in less than a day.