Harnessing the Power of Genome and Transcriptome Assemblies

The availability of high-quality genome and transcriptome assemblies is crucial for numerous studies of specific plant functions. Long-read sequencing technologies boost the contiguity of genome assemblies and open up novel opportunities in plant transcriptomics.

Chromosome-scale plant genome assemblies can be harnessed for the discovery of metabolic networks, in the identification of genetic loci underlying agronomic traits, to support breeding programs, or to study genetic diversity. The evolutionary history of plants is recorded in their genome structure and can be revealed through sequencing, assembly, and comparison of genome sequences. Current sequencing technologies reveal methylation patterns and other DNA modifications in addition to genome sequences.

Transcriptome assemblies are a cost-effective way to access the genes of plant species with large and complex genomes. Direct RNA sequencing allows the identification of modifications on these transcripts. Deep sequencing with long reads enables detailed investigations of splicing processes, leading to a huge variety of transcript isoforms.

This Special Issue is open to all research articles providing new insights into the biology of plants based on genome or transcriptome assemblies.

Particularly welcome are research papers on the following topics:

• Genome or transcriptome assemblies of potential crop species (orphan crops);
• Re-sequencing studies addressing variability in plant genomes;
• Mapping-by-sequencing studies with a focus on agronomic traits;
• Investigations of metabolic pathways, networks, or gene families based on genome or transcriptome assemblies;
• Transcriptome analyses of specific tissues, cell types, or conditions;
• Bioinformatic approaches advancing the field of plant genomics.

Dr. Boas Pucker
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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