Final answer:
The next step after generating sequence reads from a sequencer is sequence assembly, using software to align and reconstruct the original DNA sequence as part of the next-generation sequencing process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Once the sequence reads are generated from a sequencer, the next step is a process known as sequence assembly. This involves using sophisticated software to align thousands to millions of short DNA fragments (reads) and reconstruct the original sequence. This process is crucial in next-generation sequencing (NGS), a rapid DNA sequencing method that can sequence entire genomes quickly and cost-effectively.
Two common strategies used in sequence assembly are the shotgun sequencing method and the chain termination method. In cases where there are gaps in sequencing, techniques such as primer walking and PCR can help fill in the missing information to ensure a comprehensive DNA sequence is assembled.
The ultimate goal of sequencing assembly is to provide a contiguous and accurate representation of the original DNA sequence, allowing researchers to carry out further genetic analysis, such as identifying mutations or studying genomic structure.