However, certain sequence motifs in DNA templates may interfere with long read lengths, and in these cases, the expert laboratory technician must use one of alternate protocols to yield longer reads through such regions. A relatively straightforward and simple process to obtain good quality and long reads is invaluable for many applications (e.g., gap-closing, resequencing of individual genes), and in many cases, this technology is irreplaceable. In general, we believe that the Sanger technology will be viable for many years to come. Coupled, for example, with Life Technology's (Foster City, CA, USA) ABI 3500, an efficient combination may be created to solve many types of sequencing projects.

Recently, Roche released a “junior” version of its 454 platform, suited ideally for smaller, individual, next-generation sequencing projects. Once the reference sequence of an organism of interest is known, one of the next-generation platforms can now be used to sequence the same or similar species relatively quickly without relying on capillary machines. However, the number of capillary instruments decreased dramatically, in some cases, by 90%, in almost all big sequencing centers. For example, over the last 3 years, our laboratory has experienced a yearly increase of over 50% in demand for DNA sequencing services. Kieleczawa, unpublished), indicates that as of now, the number of Sanger reactions performed in many individual core sequencing facilities is still increasing. In fact, a DNA Sequencing Research Group (DSRG) survey published in 2007 in the Journal of Biomolecular Techniques, 1 consisting of data from 61 laboratories (along with personal communication, J. Although in the last 5 years, new platforms in next generation sequencing technology have become the focus for sequencing advancement, Sanger sequencing is still far from obsolete.

Erica mazaika