Decoding neural transcriptomes and epigenomes via high-throughput sequencing

This article reviews various next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and how they may be applied to the studies of the central nervous system. Specifically, the authors summarize practical information about when and how NGS may be applied to the studies of brain function, highlighting pros and cons of each technique for the unique challenges of studying a mixed population of targets. The mammalian brain is an evolutionary marvel in which engraving and re-engraving of cellular states enable complex information processing and lifelong maintenance. Understanding the mechanisms by which neurons alter and maintain their molecular signatures during information processing is a fundamental goal of neuroscience. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology is rapidly transforming the ability to probe the molecular basis of neuronal function. NGS can define not only the complete molecular signatures of cells by transcriptome analyses but also the cascade of events that induce or maintain such signatures by epigenetic analyses. Here we offer some general and practical information to demystify NGS technology and highlight its potential to the neuroscience field. We start with discussion of the complexity of the nervous system, then introduce various applications of NGS with practical considerations and describe basic principles underlying various NGS technologies. Finally, we discuss emerging NGS-related technologies for the neuroscience field.