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Updated: Jan 31, 2026
10:34
Ultra-long Read Sequencing for Whole Genomic DNA Analysis
Published on: March 15, 2019
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Long-read sequencing for bacterial plasmid analysis: a brief overview.
Vincent van Almsick1,2, Annika Sobkowiak1,2, Vera Schwierzeck2
1Department of Cardiology I - Coronary and Peripheral Vascular Disease, Heart Failure, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
FEMS Microbiology Letters
|January 30, 2026
Summary
Long-read sequencing (LRS) revolutionizes bacterial genomics by enabling complete genome assembly and detailed analysis of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) on plasmids. This technology is crucial for understanding AMR evolution and controlling infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbial genomics
- Genomic epidemiology
- Antimicrobial resistance
Background:
- Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has advanced microbial genomics since 1995.
- Third-generation long-read sequencing (LRS) platforms overcome short-read sequencing limitations.
- LRS provides long, continuous reads for high-resolution bacterial pathogen investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review LRS technology and its capabilities in microbial genomics.
- To outline approaches and tools for analyzing bacterial plasmids using LRS.
- To highlight LRS's role in understanding antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) dissemination.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing long-read sequencing (LRS) platforms (e.g., PacBio, Oxford Nanopore).
- Performing accurate de novo genome assembly and resolving complex genomic regions.
- Characterizing plasmids and mobile genetic elements harboring ARGs.
Main Results:
- LRS facilitates precise characterization of ARGs, including their genomic architecture, localization, and copy number.
- Complete genomic context of ARGs is revealed, essential for interpreting antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- LRS aids in understanding AMR evolution and dissemination via clonal expansion and horizontal gene transfer.
Conclusions:
- LRS offers a reliable foundation for studying AMR evolution and spread.
- Bioinformatics tools enhance LRS analysis for plasmid reconstruction, typing, and annotation.
- LRS enables plasmid surveillance and tracing of ARG transmission across various settings.
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