How does DNA sequencing function?

DNA sequencing functions by determining the precise order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule. This process involves reading the sequence of the four nucleotide bases—adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine—that make up the DNA strands. Understanding this sequence is crucial because it provides the foundational information necessary for comprehending genetic codes, gene functions, and the overall biology of organisms.

The accuracy of sequencing is integral to various applications such as genetic testing, genomic research, and biotechnology, enabling researchers to identify mutations, study genetic variation, and explore evolutionary relationships among species. This precise ordering of nucleotides is what distinguishes DNA sequencing from other techniques that may analyze DNA but do not provide detailed insights into the nucleotide composition or order.