DNA Sequencing

Sequencing is another part of our core laboratory process. This lab receives samples from GSK scientists doing research throughout the company.

	The Sequencing Lab performs analysis for scientists studying viral infections, cancer, Alzheimers, diabetes, asthma , and others. All samples are entered into the database to ensure proper tracking and reporting of the results.

		The DNA sequencing facility receives DNA samples from scientists and makes a fluorescent "photocopy" of the DNA segment by combining the sample with flourescently-labeled nucleotides and a special DNA-copying enzyme.
Liquid Handling Laboratory Station to prepare a sample for sequencing. Enzymes and fluorescently-labeled nucleotides are added to the DNA sample.				The enzymes will only react with the samples at certain temperatures. The Thermal Cycler, sometimes called a PCR machine, raises and lowers the temperature of the samples for specific periods of time. This allows the enzymes to "photcopy" the DNA sample.

		The resulting fluorescent copies are read by an automated DNA Sequencer. The output to the computer is called a chromatogram. From the chromatogram, the sequence data is read-out in the form of A's, C's, G's and T's (the 4 DNA bases). bases).
The DNA analyzer analyzes a properly prepared sample of DNA to produce a chromatogram, a graph of the sequence of the bases.

Virtual Tour of DNA Sequencing

Take a virtual tour of the genetics research labs at GlaxoSmithKline

You will need the QuickTime plug-in to view the tour. Click here to download the appropriate plug-in.

Position your cursor over the picture above and hold down the mouse button. Drag the cursor around to where you want to look while continuing to hold the button down.

Move your cursor over the picture without holding the mouse button down. Your cursor will change to a pointing finger when you encounter a "hot spot." Clicking the mouse will open a window that displays video clips or photographs with more detail. Your pointer will change to an arrow when you encounter a jump point. Clicking the mouse on a jump point will move you to another place in the virtual tour of the lab.

Click the button with the "?" to reveal all the "hot spots."