Genomics. Plant biology in 2010

Area of Science:

• Plant Biology
• Genomics
• Computational Biology

Background:

• The completion of the Arabidopsis genome sequence is a precursor to a larger initiative.
• Understanding angiosperm gene function is a critical next step in plant science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a ten-year multinational project focused on determining the function of all angiosperm genes.
• To introduce the U.S. National Science Foundation's "2010 Project" initiative funding this research.
• To propose a paradigm shift in plant biology research objectives and approaches.

Main Methods:

• The project will involve a comprehensive, large-scale functional genomics approach.
• Development of a computational model of a "virtual plant" is a key methodological goal.
• Predictive queries will be enabled through this virtual plant model.

Main Results:

• The project aims to functionally characterize all angiosperm genes.
• It will necessitate significant changes in research selection and approach within the plant biology community.
• A virtual plant model will be developed for predictive analysis.

Conclusions:

• Determining the function of all angiosperm genes is an ambitious but achievable goal.
• This project will advance our understanding of fundamental plant growth and development mechanisms.
• The development of a virtual plant model represents a significant advancement in biological research capabilities.