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Recent measurements of the human mutation rate using next-generation sequencing have revealed a value of approximately half of that previously derived from fossil calibration. Here, the authors discuss the implications of this revised mutation rate in relation to our understanding of human evolution.
There are many different methods and tools available for the analysis of next-generation sequencing data. The challenges towards applying these analysis tools in a transparent and reproducible manner are presented, and a way forward for analysing these data in life sciences research is discussed.
The author discusses the advantages and challenges of 'cellular phenotyping' and the way in which this integrated analysis of cellular phenotypes is likely to advance our understanding of the genetic and long-term environmental influences on complex traits.