The Optimal Sequencing Depth of Tumor Biopsies for Identifying Clonal Cell Populations

The tumor content of a biopsy and the average depth of coverage are two essential aspects when performing DNA sequencing using next-generation sequencing technologies. The heterogeneous nature of cancer necessitates the identification of distinct clonal cell populations to better understand and treat cancer. Deep sequencing enables researchers to identify these populations, but no consensus on an optimal depth exists for identifying clonal populations. Data from eight deep sequenced oral squamous cell carcinoma biopsies obtained from three stage IV patients, with various degrees of tumor content, were used to randomly down sample the depth before being subjected to cluster analysis.
Source: Journal of Molecular Diagnostics - Category: Pathology Authors: Tags: Regular Article Source Type: research