Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (tNGS) for Pathogenic Microorganisms: A Comprehensive Review

Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (tNGS) for Pathogenic Microorganisms: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract:

Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (tNGS) has revolutionized the field of microbiology by enabling the rapid and accurate identification of pathogenic microorganisms. This comprehensive review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the applications, methodologies, challenges, and future prospects of tNGS in the study of pathogenic microorganisms. The review begins by presenting an overview of tNGS and its advantages over traditional sequencing methods. Subsequently, it delves into the various applications of tNGS, including pathogen discovery, antimicrobial resistance profiling, epidemiology, and outbreak investigations. The review also discusses the methodologies employed in tNGS, such as amplicon-based and hybridization capture approaches. Additionally, the challenges associated with tNGS, including sample preparation, data analysis, and interpretation, are thoroughly examined. Finally, the review concludes with a discussion on the future prospects of tNGS in the field of pathogenic microbiology.

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview of targeted next-generation sequencing

1.2 Advantages of targeted next-generation sequencing over traditional methods

2. Applications of tNGS in Pathogenic Microbiology

2.1 Pathogen discovery

2.2 Antimicrobial resistance profiling

2.3 Epidemiology and outbreak investigations

2.4 Metagenomics and microbiome analysis

3. Methodologies in tNGS

3.1 Amplicon-based approaches

3.2 Hybridization capture approaches

3.3 Considerations in target design and validation

4. Challenges in tNGS

4.1 Sample preparation challenges

4.2 Data analysis and interpretation challenges

4.3 Quality control and standardization challenges

5. Future Prospects of tNGS

5.1 Integration of tNGS with other omics technologies

5.2 Point-of-care applications of tNGS

5.3 Advancements in data analysis and interpretation

5.4 Development of targeted sequencing panels for routine diagnostics

6. Conclusion

References:

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Note: This is a sample outline and should be modified and expanded upon to achieve a comprehensive review of targeted next-generation sequencing for pathogenic microorganisms.