Application of metagenomic next generation sequencing in infectious diseases

Almost all pathogens have DNA or RNA genomes. Theoretically, genomes of pathogens can be effectively detected by sequencing technology, it would be of value for etiological diagnosis of infectious diseases. The next generation sequencing (NGS) emerged in 2005, the advantages of low cost, high efficiency and high accuracy make it a favorable technical platform for clinical identification of microorganisms. As a new sequencing technique, metagenomic next generation sequencing (mNGS) has great potential in improving the accuracy and efficiency of pathogenic diagnosis, especially in the areas where conventional diagnostic methods have limitations. This article introduces the common platforms and principle of the high throughput sequencing, reviews the clinical applications and the advantages of mNGS in identification of different pathogenic microorganisms, and reflects on its limitations and seeks possible solutions. Key words: Next generation sequencing; Metagenomic next generation sequencing; Infectious diseases; Application