DNA sequencing

British  

noun

1. the procedure of determining the order of base pairs in a section of DNA

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DNA sequencing Scientific  

1. The determination of the sequence of nucleotides in a sample of DNA.

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DNA sequencing Cultural  

1. A process by which the sequence of nucleotides along a strand of DNA is determined. Originally a difficult process to carry out, DNA sequencing can now be done routinely by machines. The completion of the Human Genome Project in 2000 produced the largest DNA sequence ever assembled. To carry out the sequencing of the human genome, scientists cut the DNA up into short fragments, sequenced these fragments simultaneously, and then assembled the entire genome by using sophisticated computer techniques to match the fragments to each other.

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Discover More

Many believe that knowledge of the human genome will lead to enormous advances in medicine. (Compare gene mapping and DNA fingerprinting.)

Example Sentences

Using advanced DNA sequencing, researchers aimed to resolve questions that have surrounded the Beachy Head Woman for more than a decade.

From Science Daily • Jan. 25, 2026

Originally excavated in 1981 from the grounds of St Giles' Cathedral, the remains have undergone new detailed analysis using advanced methods including ancient DNA sequencing, isotopic analysis and radiocarbon dating.

From BBC • Nov. 3, 2025

Using DNA sequencing technologies, we were able to identify and quantify the microbes detected in each sample.

From Salon • Jan. 13, 2025

The discovery was enabled by a single-cell sequencing technology called Strand-seq, a unique DNA sequencing technique that can reveal subtle details of genomes in single cells that are too difficult to detect with other methods.

From Science Daily • May 28, 2024

Now, after a heroic DNA sequencing effort, a collaboration involving hundreds of scientists has created a new family tree for flowering plants.

From New York Times • May 11, 2024