ParMap, an algorithm for the identification of small genomic insertions and deletions in nextgen sequencing data

BACKGROUND: Next-generation sequencing produces high-throughput data, albeit with greater error and shorter reads than traditional Sanger sequencing methods. This complicates the detection of genomic variations, especially, small insertions and deletions. FINDINGS: Here we describe ParMap, a statistical algorithm for the identification of complex genetic variants, such as small insertion and deletions, using partially mapped reads in nextgen sequencing data. CONCLUSIONS: We report ParMap's successful application to the mutation analysis of chromosome X exome-captured leukemia DNA samples.