2.04.10 - Genomics

Coordinator:

Amanda De La Torre, United States

Deputies:

Kaisa Nieminen, Finland

Ilga Porth, Canada

About Unit

This Working Party was created in 2002, interestingly when the Poplar Genome Sequencing project was launched. The challenge of this Unit is to capitalise on all the genome data that are being generated worldwide on tree species (poplar, birch, eucalyptus, oak, pine, spruce…), to make the connection between gene sequence and gene function. This is based on a collaboration between quantitative, population and molecular geneticists as well as diverse aspects of tree biology.


State of Knowledge

Eucalyptus Grandis Genome: The preliminary draft assembly of the E. grandis genome is available in public genome database. Read about the E. grandis genome here!

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Through the application of the cutting-edge tools of genome analysis, a comprehensive picture of the genes and cellular processes involved in many aspects of tree growth and development will soon emerge. This includes seed germination, biomass production, flower formation, disease resistance and biotic/abiotic stress responses just to cite a few. Given the broad use and application of forest tree genomics, it is expected that strong links will be forged with many other Unit.

For a recent review on the Unit see:

  • Plomion C, Cooke J, Richardson T, McKay J, Tuskan G (2003) Conference Report on the Forest Trees Workshop at the Plant and Animal Genome Conference. January 2003; San Diego, CA, USA. Comp Funct Genom 4:229-238
  • Plomion C, Richardson T, McKay J (2005) Advances in forest tree genomics. New Phytol 166:713-717