Biochem:
The Sanger method for DNA sequencing uses a small amount of ddNTP in the presence of standard dNTPs. Why is only a small amount of each ddNTP used rather than 100% ddNTP?
Sanger sequencing requires a single-stranded DNA template, a DNA polymerase, a DNA primer, normal deoxynucleosidetriphosphates (dNTPs), and modified nucleotides (ddNTPs) that terminate DNA strand elongation. These ddNTPs lack a 3′-OH group that is required for the formation of a phosphodiester bond between two nucleotides, causing the extension of the DNA strand to stop when a ddNTP is added. The DNA sample is divided into four separate sequencing reactions, containing all four of the standard dNTPs (dATP, dGTP, dCTP, and dTTP), the DNA polymerase, and only one of the four ddNTPs (ddATP, ddGTP, ddCTP, or ddTTP) for each reaction. After rounds of template DNA extension, the DNA fragments that are formed are denatured and separated by size using gel electrophoresis with each of the four reactions in one of four separated lanes.
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