Zeitschrift für Genetik und DNA-Forschung

Exploring Genetic Diversity and Population Structure Using Next Generation Sequencing Techniques

Abstract

Anna Lindstrom*

Genetic diversity and population structure are fundamental aspects of evolutionary biology, with implications for understanding human health, biodiversity conservation and agricultural sustainability. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have revolutionized our ability to explore genetic variation within and between populations at unprecedented resolution. In this mini-review, we highlight recent advances in the application of NGS techniques for elucidating genetic diversity and population structure across diverse taxa. We discuss the utility of whole-genome sequencing, genotyping-by-sequencing and related methodologies for characterizing genetic variation, detecting population differentiation and inferring demographic history. Furthermore, we explore the challenges and opportunities associated with NGS-based approaches for studying genetic diversity and population structure and discuss future directions in the field.