Articles tagged with Plant Genomes
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Scientists have completed the eucalyptus genome sequence, revealing insights into plant growth rate, wood hardness, and flowering. This breakthrough enables researchers to enhance or suppress traits in the tree for improved biomass yield and stress tolerance.
Researchers developed a computational pipeline system to analyze plant genomes, revealing unusual properties in genes producing specialized metabolites. These findings offer an innovative strategy for discovering novel compounds with wide-ranging implications for agriculture, biotechnology, drug discovery, and synthetic biology.
A new method for genotyping pine species has been developed using simple sequence repeats, allowing for efficient and cost-effective population-level studies. The technique was tested on over 900 individuals across 100 species, revealing six markers that are particularly useful for understanding genetic structure within ponderosa pine.
The International Peanut Genome Initiative has successfully sequenced the peanut's genome, providing researchers with access to 96% of all peanut genes. This breakthrough will enable the development of drought- and disease-resistant, lower-input, and higher-yielding peanut varieties.
The sequencing of the loblolly pine genome has identified a candidate gene involved in resistance to fusiform rust, a devastating disease affecting southern pines. Researchers can use this gene as a marker to track resistance in breeding populations and inform tree planting decisions.
The draft genome of the loblolly pine, seven times bigger than the human genome, has been completed using a faster analytical process. The sequencing provides a better understanding of plant evolution and diversity, as well as gene locations involved in fighting off pathogens.
The draft genome of the loblolly pine is the largest ever assembled, comprising approximately 82% repetitive DNA elements. This achievement marks a significant breakthrough in conifer genome sequencing, enabling future projects to build upon a high-quality reference genome.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a small-RNA pathway that targets 'jumping genes' in reproductive cells to prevent genetic damage. The pathway uses microRNAs to silence transposons and protect the genome.
A new approach allows for the sequencing of hundreds of nuclear genes across members of the Compositae, enabling better-resolution phylogenetic relationships and addressing evolutionary questions about the family. The method, termed target sequence capture, has been successfully tested using 14 species from the sunflower family.
A recent study suggests that plant speciation may not be influenced by environmental factors, instead emphasizing the importance of seed dispersal and similar habitats. This finding has significant implications for agriculture and climate change, as many crop species are polyploids and may not adapt well to changing climates.
An international team of researchers has successfully sequenced the sugar beet genome, revealing a vast array of genes and genetic variations. The study sheds light on the plant's sweet properties and how its genome has been shaped by artificial selection.
A recent study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution found that herbivores have a greater number of Tas2r bitter taste receptor genes than omnivores and carnivores. The researchers correlated the Tas2r gene repertoire with dietary compositions, revealing a significant relationship between plant diet fraction and Tas2r gene number.
Researchers at Kansas State University have identified a PHS gene in wheat that prevents preharvest sprouting, a major cause of crop loss. The discovery provides a potential solution for the $1 billion annual industry losses associated with white wheat production.
A major step forward in understanding plant gene regulation has been made with the creation of a genomic map that localizes regulatory regions in plant genomes. This map will help scientists identify key genomic regions controlling traits important to farmers.
A recent study published in Nature Genetics reveals that self-fertilizing plants like Red Shepherd's Purse accumulate harmful mutations over time, reducing genetic diversity. This can lead to extinction, highlighting the importance of preserving crop genetic variation to avoid yield losses due to mutation accumulation.
A recent genome study identified genetic markers that can lead to higher yielding cocoa plants with better taste. Researchers sequenced the genome of the most commonly cultivated cacao plant and found a gene involved in pod color variation, which can help improve the quality of cocoa beans.
Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of white spruce, a crucial step towards developing innovative tools for tree breeding. The massive genome assembly will contribute to reducing breeding cycles from 25 years to just five years, enhancing the competitiveness of Canada's and Scandinavian forest industries.
Scientists have mapped Norway spruce's massive genome, identifying 29,000 functional genes. The seven times larger genome is attributed to 'genome obesity' from repetitive DNA sequences, a challenge in conifers.
A study found that shorter plants have faster-changing genomes and evolve as much as five times faster than taller ones. This is due to the accumulation of genetic changes in actively-dividing cells at the tip of plant shoots.
The Utricularia gibba genome, smallest sequenced from a complex plant, contradicts the notion that vast quantities of noncoding DNA are crucial for complex life. The bladderwort has purged most of its genetic material, including noncoding 'junk' DNA, while maintaining a functional set of genes similar to those of other plant species.
The sacred lotus genome sequencing reveals its close resemblance to the ancestor of all eudicots, a group including apple, cabbage, and soybean. The study found that duplicated genes related to wax formation and survival in mineral-starved habitats were retained, making lotus an ideal reference plant for studying other eudicots.
Renowned geneticist Susan Wessler has been elected a member of the American Philosophical Society (APS), a prestigious organization established in 1743. The election recognizes her extraordinary contributions to plant genetics and her commitment to scientific engagement and knowledge promotion.
Natasha Raikhel, a distinguished professor at UC Riverside, has been named recipient of the Adolph E. Gude, Jr. Award for outstanding service to plant biology. Susan Wessler, also from UC Riverside, is a fellow of the ASPB for her pioneering work on plant transposable elements and genomes.
The peach genome offers a unique model for studying genes related to poplar trees, which could lead to improved biofuel crops. By analyzing the genetic makeup of peaches, researchers hope to develop methods for increasing plant biomass yield and improving sustainability.
Plant biologists can now sequence hundreds of complete chloroplast genomes simultaneously, facilitating studies on molecular biology and evolution. This breakthrough allows researchers to reconstruct evolutionary relationships and diversifications with unprecedented precision.
The study found that conifers' genomic structure has remained stable for at least 100 million years, leading to their resemblance with ancient fossils. This stability allows conifers to thrive in cold climates without undergoing significant evolutionary changes.
A study comparing plant chromosome numbers among Italian, Slovak, and Polish floras found significant differences, confirming that mean chromosome number increases with increasing latitude. The findings suggest a relationship between polyploidy and latitude, but more research is needed for the Austral hemisphere.
The international consortium has published the watermelon genome sequence, revealing a loss of natural disease defenses during domestication. Breeders can now use this information to recover some of these natural defenses, potentially leading to more nutritious and resistant watermelons.
A new technique links agronomic traits in crops with active genomic regions, identifying expressed genes. This allows plant breeders to develop markers based on these genes, accelerating breeding through marker-assisted selection.
The melon genome consists of 450 million base pairs and 27,427 genes, with seven varieties sequenced. Key findings include genes related to disease resistance and the ripening process, offering potential for improving crop yields and quality.
Researchers have developed a detailed genetic sequence and map of foxtail millet, a close relative of switchgrass and an important food crop in Asia. The study provides a powerful tool for scientists working to increase biofuel and crop yields by systematically searching for genes that influence desirable traits.
A large international consortium has successfully sequenced the tomato genome for the first time, revealing its genetic code and potential applications in improving crop yields, flavor, and aroma. The achievement is expected to have significant implications for food production and culinary innovation.
The tomato genome sequence provides detailed information about its genes and chromosomes, enabling researchers to improve crop yields and quality. The full genome sequence allows for faster and less expensive sequencing of other varieties, with potential applications in improving taste, nutritional content and disease resistance.
Two studies have produced independent chromosome maps of Miscanthus sinensis, revealing the process of genetic duplication and fusion that led to its emergence. The findings provide insights into the evolution of grasses and their desirable traits.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that maternally inherited small interfering RNAs control seed development, leading to smaller seeds. This discovery has significant implications for agriculture and understanding plant evolution.
The Plant Metabolic Network has launched four new online databases for corn, soybeans, wine grapes, and cassava, providing a comprehensive view of their biochemical pathways. The databases will aid researchers in increasing crop production, developing biofuels, and exploring novel medicines.
New DNA sequencing techniques enable plant scientists to analyze complex genomes, revealing new insights into plant diversity and evolutionary history. Targeted enrichment methods facilitate the study of specific genes and regions, accelerating discovery in crop production, ecosystem health, and understanding plant diversity.
A team led by Rutgers University professor Debashish Bhattacharya has sequenced the genome of Cyanophora paradoxa, a one-celled alga that shed light on the evolution of photosynthesis. The study reveals that all plastids trace their origin to a single primary endosymbiosis, approximately 1.6 billion years ago.
Researchers plotted evolutionary relationships of 150 plant species based on advanced genome-wide analysis, providing insights into genetic basis of diversity. The study resolves the long-standing problem of producing an unequivocal evolutionary tree of seed plants.
Researchers at GIS developed a systematic approach for accurate DNA sequence reconstruction using the Opera algorithm, providing a quality guarantee and scaling to large datasets. This breakthrough enables more complete and accurate draft genomes, driving genetic studies of organisms of interest for human health and other areas.
Researchers are utilizing genomic data to create novel pest-control strategies, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and environmental pollution. The study focuses on the biology of the two-spotted spider mite, exploring its ability to develop pesticide resistance and potential applications in crop protection.
The genome of Medicago, a legume model, reveals insights into the evolution of nitrogen-fixing symbioses that can be partly attributed to a 58 million-year-old genetic event. The study found additional genes specialized for root nodulation and interaction with symbiotic bacteria.
The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Project has selected two projects from the Danforth Plant Science Center to develop genetic resources for bioenergy grasses. The projects will focus on improving biomass production and stress tolerance in crops such as switchgrass, sorghum, and Miscanthus.
An international research team, led by Jason Stajich, is sequencing 1000 fungal genomes to improve understanding of their role in ecosystems and human affairs. The '1000 Fungal Genomes' project aims to fill gaps in the Fungal Tree of Life and provide a foundation for interpreting how fungi adapt to their environments.
The US Forest Service's Northern Research Station is part of an international team sequencing 1,000 fungal genomes as part of the DOE's Community Sequencing Program. This project aims to create an encyclopedia of all fungi, which will help researchers understand their roles in ecosystems and develop new products.
A new genome sequence of Brassica rapa, a key crop for vegetable oils, has been successfully completed. This breakthrough will help breeders develop more efficient varieties of oilseed rape and other important crops, ultimately contributing to global food security.
A team of international researchers has successfully sequenced the potato genome, revealing secrets of its tuber and potential for improvement. The study aims to accelerate efforts in improving potato varieties with desirable traits such as quality, yield, drought tolerance, and disease resistance.
Susan R. Wessler, a distinguished professor of genetics at the University of California, Riverside, has been awarded the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) Excellence in Science Award. She is internationally recognized for her work on plant genome structure and stability.
Researchers have identified a list of plant proteins essential for photosynthesis, known as the GreenCut, which is unique to plants and green algae but not found in non-photosynthetic organisms. The study suggests that these proteins play critical roles in regulating metabolism, DNA transcription, and other cellular processes.
Researchers at Purdue University have sequenced the genome of Mycosphaerella graminicola, a devastating wheat pathogen. The study revealed that the fungus has fewer genes related to producing enzymes that break down plant cell walls, suggesting it may evade detection by plant defenses.
A team of researchers has sequenced the genome of a fungus that causes leaf blotch disease in wheat, revealing potential weaknesses to combat the devastating crop loss. The fungus' unusual genetic makeup may hold the key to breeding resistant crop plants or improving pesticide use.
Comparing the genomes of plant parasites has provided insights into their invasion strategies and sabotaged plant immune responses. This knowledge can be used to develop new tools for diagnosis and disease forecasting, as well as breeding crops with stronger disease resistance genes.
The sequencing of the Selaginella genome provides a unique insight into plant evolution, revealing new genetic mechanisms and potential sources for pharmaceuticals. By comparing this genome with others, researchers have identified genes that played important roles in the early evolution of vascular and flowering plants.
Researchers have sequenced the genomes of two rust fungi that infect poplar trees, a promising bioenergy feedstock. The study reveals the characteristics of these pathogens and their methods of attacking host plants, providing key findings for developing disease control strategies.
A new genetic study suggests that the evolution of flowering plants was 'jump started' by two major upheavals in the plant genome, occurring nearly 200 million years ago. These events produced thousands of new genes that drove the evolutionary explosion leading to the diverse range of present-day flowering plants.
A team of UCR researchers will study mosquito genome sequences to identify 'transposable elements' that play a vital role in gene and genome evolution. The goal is to understand how mosquitoes adapt to their environment and potentially develop new genetic tools to control disease vectors.
Scientists discovered that Rhizanthella gardneri, a critically endangered orchid, has the smallest plant chloroplast genome at 37 genes, making it essential for its parasitic lifestyle. The genome retains only four crucial proteins, allowing the orchid to survive without photosynthesis.
Scientists have identified 27,755 potential enzyme genes and found 57% to be active against cellulosic plant material. The bovine rumen is a promising habitat for finding plant-degrading enzymes for second-generation biofuels.
The first DNA sequence of a strawberry plant has been completed, giving breeders the ability to create tastier and healthier strawberries. The woodland strawberry genome will inform the breeding of other economically important fruits like apples, peaches, and raspberries.
Researchers have sequenced the DNA of the Criollo cacao tree, considered one of the world's finest chocolate varieties. The study identified key genes that can improve disease resistance and increase productivity, potentially leading to a more sustainable cacao economy.