DNA sequencing - analysing raw data

Printout of Kombucha samples

The DNA printout for each sample is in the format of a chromotogram and a letter code.  Two chromotographs are presented, which superimpose one on the other to align the DNA sequence making one final printout. 

Park looks at the chromotograms for quality; eg, distinct highs and troughs denote high DNA quality; indistinct, 'messy' troughs denote low quality.  The beginning and end of the chromotograph are routinely poor quality as they are the controls.  They are deleted, and no important data is lost.  with his vast experience, Park also checks the chromomotogram against the letter code, and amends it if necessary; eg, a wide peak might denote a double letter and one will be added if absent.

Yeasts have shorter DNA strands (ITS suffix) and bacteria have longer strands (FDI suffix)