Solexa Co-Inventor Shankar Balasubramanian on Six-Base Sequencing and What's Next in Genomics

An inventor of Solexa sequencing by synthesis has a new idea.On today’s show, Sir Shankar Balasubramanian revisits the accidental origins of Solexa sequencing, born not from a sequencing project at all, but from curiosity-driven experiments watching DNA polymerase at work. What followed helped transform DNA sequencing from a specialized pursuit into a routine engine of modern biology. But as Shankar makes clear, the biggest surprise may not have been genomics itself—it was how next-generation sequencing became a universal readout for biology, powering everything from single-cell and spatial biology to entirely new ways of probing molecules and mechanisms.Our conversation then turns to his latest venture, Biomodal, and the emerging world of 6-base sequencing. Shankar explains why distinguishing 5mC and 5hmC matters, and how six-base sequencing may improve early cancer detection. 6-base sequencing could also aid researchers in the exciting frontier of neurobiology.As always with great scientists, the story widens beyond any single technology. Shankar closes by reminding us that discovery follows better measurement. As our tools improve, biology will continue to surprise us. “That is what research is. It’s stepping into the unknown,” he says. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mendelspod.com/subscribe