An Introduction to Nanopore Sequencing: Past, Present, and Future Considerations

Abstract

There has been significant progress made in the field of nanopore biosensor development and sequencing applications, which address previous limitations that restricted widespread nanopore use. These innovations, paired with the large-scale commercialization of biological nanopore sequencing by Oxford Nanopore Technologies, are making the platforms a mainstay in contemporary research laboratories. Equipped with the ability to provide long- and short read sequencing information, with quick turn-around times and simple sample preparation, nanopore sequencers are rapidly improving our understanding of unsolved genetic, transcriptomic, and epigenetic problems. However, there remain some key obstacles that have yet to be improved. In this review, we provide a general introduction to nanopore sequencing principles, discussing biological and solid-state nanopore developments, obstacles to single-base detection, and library preparation considerations. We present examples of important clinical applications to give perspective on the potential future of nanopore sequencing in the field of molecular diagnostics.