
Genome assembly
Genome assembly is the process of piecing together the complete DNA sequence of an organism from smaller fragments generated during DNA sequencing. Think of it like a jigsaw puzzle: researchers collect thousands of tiny pieces of DNA and use specialized software to fit them together based on overlapping sequences. The goal is to reconstruct the entire genome, which contains all of the genetic instructions needed for the organism to grow, develop, and function. This process is crucial for understanding genetics, studying diseases, and developing treatments.