Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a new technology that could overcome some of the limitations of the current viral testing methods for demonstrating the absence of adventitious agents in biologics. This report follows up on the webinar organized by the IABS – International Alliance for Biological Standardization and the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN), held on July 2022, as an introduction to the technical and bioinformatics concepts of NGS and to some of the strengths and limitations of using the technology for those working in vaccine production or development. The application of NGS to supplement or replace current in vivo and in vitro assays in adventitious virus testing during vaccine production is promising; however, assay performance (sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility) needs to be demonstrated, which may include laboratory and bioinformatics work. Efforts from regulatory authorities, industry, and researchers are ongoing to facilitate validation and establishment of NGS as a new method for virus detection.
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