Oral bacterial genome sequencing using the high-throughput Roche Genome Sequencer FLX System.

For over 30 years, the chain termination method of DNA sequencing (commonly known as Sanger sequencing) has been the mainstay of any DNA sequencing project. In the past, whole-genome sequencing employing exclusively Sanger chemistry has been a labor-intensive and costly exercise and an option unfeasible for the average research group. However, within the last 4 years, the introduction of three high-throughput sequencing technologies (454, SOLiD, and Illumina) has revolutionized genomics by facilitating unprecedented levels (up to gigabasepairs) of reliable DNA sequence output in a relatively short time frame and at a much lower cost per sequenced basepair. Here, we provide laboratory and bioinformatic protocols that will allow the average research group to undertake high-throughput sequencing of oral bacterial genomes using the Roche Genome Sequencer FLX System which employs 454 pyrosequencing technology.