What is one key characteristic of massively parallel shotgun sequencing?

Massively parallel shotgun sequencing (MPSS) is a high-throughput method that allows for the sequencing of multiple DNA fragments simultaneously, providing a comprehensive approach to genome analysis. One of the key characteristics of MPSS is its ability to count and sequence fragments from all chromosomes in a genome, enabling a broad assessment of the genetic material from a given sample. This capability allows researchers to obtain a vast amount of data in a single experiment, facilitating the analysis of entire genomes rather than targeting specific regions.

In contrast, the other choices limit the scope of what MPSS is designed to accomplish. An exclusive focus on single nucleotide variants would only capture a portion of the genomic information, whereas MPSS provides a more extensive view. Similarly, a limitation to microdeletions overlooks the broader array of variations and mutations that can be identified through this sequencing technique. Lastly, while analyzing mitochondrial DNA can be part of certain studies, MPSS is not restricted to only this area; it encompasses the entire genome, thereby maximizing the potential insights derived from whole-genome sequencing.