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Why Reverse Complement a Sequence?

David Miller • • 6 min read
Why Reverse Complement a Sequence?

Reverse/Complement. Often we need to obtain the complementary strand

complementary strand
In molecular biology, complementarity describes a relationship between two structures each following the lock-and-key principle. ... In biotechnology, the principle of base pair complementarity allows the generation of DNA hybrids between RNA and DNA, and opens the door to modern tools such as cDNA libraries.
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of a DNA sequence. As DNA is antiparallel, we really need the reverse complement sequence to keep our 5' and 3' ends properly oriented. While this is easy to do manually with short sequences, for longer sequences computer programs are easier.

What is reverse complement used for?

Reverse Complement. Reverse Complement converts a DNA sequence into its reverse, complement, or reverse-complement counterpart. You may want to work with the reverse-complement of a sequence if it contains an ORF on the reverse strand.

Why is both the forward and reverse complementary DNA sequenced?

That's because this is how DNA polymerase works in our cells (indeed, in every living thing's cells) and sequencing relies on DNA polymerase. ... Since the new strand is synthesized 5′-to-3′, you are working your way up the template strand in a 3′-to-5′ direction.

David Miller
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David Miller

David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.