The sequencing and mapping of DNA and the technologies to accomplish t
hese tasks are rapidly evolving. Sequence information can give insite
into the location and function of genes, provide an understanding of t
he relationship between variations in sequence and different genetic d
iseases, and serve as a basis for the prediction, treatment and cure o
f those disease conditions. In pursuit of these capabilities the Human
Genome Program has proposed sequencing the entire human genome over t
he next 15 years. The work presented here represents our efforts to ad
vance the technology for faster and more automated sequencing procedur
es. Focusing on metal-centered organic compounds and a variety of dete
ction methods, several strategies for labeling and detecting DNA seque
ncing reaction products are presented. The synthesis and testing of a
variety of compounds and approaches are discussed including mass label
s using tin, iron and lanthanide elements, electrochemically detectabl
e ferrocene derivatives, and luminescent complexes of given lanthanide
s. The results of this work are discussed and future directions presen
ted.