Single Molecule, Real-Time
Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT) sequencing is a cutting-edge technology used to read DNA sequences. Unlike traditional methods that analyze many molecules at once, SMRT focuses on individual DNA molecules, allowing for longer reads and more accurate results. This technique uses a specialized enzyme called DNA polymerase to synthesize a complementary strand of DNA while monitoring the process in real-time.
The key advantage of SMRT sequencing is its ability to produce long reads, which helps in resolving complex genomic regions and identifying structural variations. This technology is particularly useful in fields like genomics, personalized medicine, and microbiology, where understanding the complete DNA sequence is crucial for research and clinical applications.