Description: WGS, or Whole Genome Sequencing, is a DNA sequencing technique that determines the complete nucleotide sequence of a genome. This methodology has revolutionized molecular biology and genetics by providing a comprehensive view of the genetic information of an organism. Unlike traditional sequencing techniques that focus on specific regions of DNA, WGS allows for a thorough analysis of the entire genome, facilitating the identification of genetic variations, mutations, and other elements relevant to health and species evolution. WGS is based on advanced sequencing technologies, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), which enable the processing of large volumes of data quickly and efficiently. This technique is not only fundamental in biomedical research but also has applications in agriculture, species conservation, and microbiology, among other fields. The ability to sequence complete genomes has opened new opportunities for studying genetic diseases, personalizing medical treatments, and understanding biodiversity on the planet.
History: Whole Genome Sequencing began to gain attention in the 1990s with the Human Genome Project, which was officially launched in 1990 and completed in 2003. This monumental project aimed to sequence human DNA and laid the groundwork for the development of more advanced sequencing technologies. As sequencing technology evolved, WGS became more accessible and affordable, especially with the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in the mid-2000s. Since then, WGS has been used in a variety of genomic studies, from disease research to exploring genetic diversity in populations.
Uses: WGS is used in various applications, including biomedical research to identify mutations associated with genetic diseases, personalizing medical treatments based on a patient’s genetic profile, and epidemiological surveillance to track outbreaks of infectious diseases. It is also applied in agriculture to improve crops by identifying genes related to desirable traits, as well as in species conservation by studying genetic diversity and population adaptation to environmental changes.
Examples: A notable example of WGS is the study of the genome of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed scientists to track mutations and variants of the virus in real-time. Another case is the use of WGS in cancer research, where tumors have been sequenced to identify specific mutations that can guide personalized treatments. Additionally, WGS has been used in sequencing the genomes of endangered species to aid in their conservation.
