Viral genome sequencing methods: benefits and pitfalls of current approaches

Natasha Jansz; Geoffrey J Faulkner

doi:10.1042/BST20231322

Viral genome sequencing methods: benefits and pitfalls of current approaches

Biochem Soc Trans. 2024 May 15:BST20231322. doi: 10.1042/BST20231322. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Natasha Jansz¹, Geoffrey J Faulkner^{1

2}

Affiliations

¹ Mater Research Institute - University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia.
² Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.

PMID: 38747720
DOI: 10.1042/BST20231322

Abstract

Whole genome sequencing of viruses provides high-resolution molecular insights, enhancing our understanding of viral genome function and phylogeny. Beyond fundamental research, viral sequencing is increasingly vital for pathogen surveillance, epidemiology, and clinical applications. As sequencing methods rapidly evolve, the diversity of viral genomics applications and catalogued genomes continues to expand. Advances in long-read, single molecule, real-time sequencing methodologies present opportunities to sequence contiguous, haplotype resolved viral genomes in a range of research and applied settings. Here we present an overview of nucleic acid sequencing methods and their applications in studying viral genomes. We emphasise the advantages of different viral sequencing approaches, with a particular focus on the benefits of third-generation sequencing technologies in elucidating viral evolution, transmission networks, and pathogenesis.

Keywords: DNA sequencing; genomics; virology.