We have experience in our lab using both DNAStar and Sequencher from
Gene Codes. For the purposes of assembly and editing of sequences
generated on the ABI, Sequencher has by far the best interface. This
comes from the ability to view multiple stacked and aligned
chromatograms for instant checking of discordant bases. While DNAStar
allows viewing of chromatograms, they are not aligned and one wastes
time searching for the base in question. In addition, Sequencher has an
automatic vector removal feature which is very flexible, allowing one
to define any sequence as "vector". We find this useful in removing our
primer sequences prior to analysis. DNAStar comes with other modules
which offer functionality beyond sequence assembly (and beyond what
Sequencher provides), including good multiple alignment and primer
picking tools. We generally do our sequence assembly and editing in
Sequencher, then export text files to DNAStar for further analysis.
Chris Hussussian, MD
NIH/NCHGR
Bldg. 49, Rm. 4A83
Bethesda, MD 20892
ph: (301)402-2029
fax: (301)402-5602
e-mail: cjh at helix.nih.gov
