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Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing
hard

How does the cost-effectiveness of Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing (WGS) influence future directions in metagenomics research?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

It allows for the sequencing of all microorganisms in a sample at a lower cost, thereby expanding research opportunities.

B

It increases the cost of sequencing, limiting research to only the most critical microorganisms.

C

It has no impact on future research directions since cost is not a factor in scientific study.

D

It primarily benefits only the pharmaceutical industry, with little relevance to academic research.

Understanding the Answer

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Answer

Whole‑Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing has become much cheaper, so researchers can now sequence many more samples and deeper into complex microbial communities. Because costs are lower, studies can include larger sample sizes, better geographic coverage, and more replicates, which improves the reliability of ecological and evolutionary conclusions. This affordability also encourages the development of new computational tools and databases that can handle the vast amount of data, driving advances in bioinformatics. For example, a study that once cost a million dollars can now be done for a few thousand, allowing scientists to map microbial diversity across an entire continent and uncover patterns that were previously impossible to detect. As a result, future metagenomics research will focus more on large‑scale, high‑resolution surveys and real‑time monitoring rather than limited, expensive pilot projects.

Detailed Explanation

When WGS becomes cheaper, scientists can sequence many more samples. Other options are incorrect because Some think cheaper sequencing means it costs more, but the opposite is true; Cost is a big factor in science.

Key Concepts

Metagenomics
Cost-effectiveness of sequencing technologies
Future directions in metagenomics.
Topic

Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing

Difficulty

hard level question

Cognitive Level

understand

Practice Similar Questions

Test your understanding with related questions

1
Question 1

What is one major challenge associated with Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing in a business context?

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Question 2

What is the importance of DNA extraction techniques in Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing?

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Question 3

Which bioinformatics tool is crucial for analyzing data from Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing and what are some future directions that this field might take to enhance microbial community understanding?

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Question 4

How does Whole-Genome Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing contribute to the understanding of microbiome dynamics in various environments?

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Question 5

What is the primary reason why whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing is preferred over targeted sequencing methods in analyzing microbial communities?

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6
Question 6

Which of the following statements best describes the significance of whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing in studying microbial communities?

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Question 7

What is a primary advantage of whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing over traditional sequencing methods?

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8
Question 8

How does whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing enhance our understanding of microbial communities in the human microbiome?

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Question 9

Which of the following statements accurately describe the advantages of using whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing in studying microbial communities? Select all that apply.

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Question 10

Whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing allows researchers to obtain a comprehensive view of the genetic content of a microbial community, including the ability to identify different __________ present in the sample.

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