From plant genomics to plant biotechnology

Description

With methods for the sequencing of genomes and less expensive next generation sequencing methods, there will be rapid advancement of the -omics technologies and plant biology studies: SuperSAGE, RNA sequencing, TILLING and collections of plant mutants, reverse and forward genetics (tissue specific expression and gene silencing), functional genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, the movement at distance of effectors (hormones, microRNAs, RNA binding proteins) and structural biology. This book covers these issues, showing how such technologies are influencing the plant field in sectors such as the selection of plant varieties and plant breeding, selection of optimum agronomic traits, stress-resistant varieties, improvement of plant fitness, improving crop yield, and non-food applications in the knowledge based bio-economy. The contributors review the recent advancements in the post-genomic era, discussing how different varieties respond to abiotic and biotic stresses, understanding the epigenetic control and epigenetic memory (RNAs, DNA methylation, histone modifications and polycomb complexes), the roles of non-coding RNAs, applicative uses of RNA silencing and RNA interference in plant physiology and in experimental transgenics and plants modified to specific aims (biofuels, production of high-value pharmaceutical proteins in plants, abiotic stress resistant wood trees and ornamental plants). In the forthcoming years these advancements will support the production of plant varieties better suited to resist biotic and abiotic stresses, for food and non-food applications. - Discusses a broad range of applications: the examples originate from a variety of sectors (including in field studies, breeding, RNA regulation, pharmaceuticals and biotech) and a variety of scientific areas (such as bioinformatics, -omics sciences, epigenetics, and the agro-industry) - Provides a unique perspective on work normally performed "behind closed doors" and presents an opportunity for those within the field to learn from each other, and for those on the "outside" to see how different groups have approached key problems - Highlights the criteria used to compare and assess different approaches to solving problems - Shows the thinking process and practical limitations, aiding in the understanding of a deeper approach