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Updated: Sep 30, 2025
10:41
Leveraging CyVerse Resources for De Novo Comparative Transcriptomics of Underserved Non-model Organisms
Published on: May 9, 2017
9.3K
Maximizing value of genetic sequence data requires an enabling environment and urgency.
Jim Gaffney1, Dejene Girma2, Ndjido Ardo Kane3
1United States Agency for International Development, USA.
Global Food Security
|March 14, 2022
Summary
Global food security is threatened by stressed supplies, necessitating agricultural innovation. Unfettered access to genetic sequence data and robust funding are crucial for improving crop production, similar to COVID-19 vaccine development.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Genomics
- Food Security
Background:
- Global food supply is severely stressed, evidenced by grain price spikes and increased cultivation.
- Agricultural productivity requires scientific advancement and open access to genetic data.
- The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the power of data sharing and funding for rapid scientific progress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of genetic sequence data in enhancing agricultural productivity.
- To draw parallels between agricultural innovation and the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines.
- To advocate for an enabling environment for agricultural research and development.
Main Methods:
- This study is a conceptual analysis and synthesis of existing information.
- It reviews the impact of genetic data accessibility on scientific discovery.
- It draws analogies from the biotechnology sector, specifically vaccine development.
Main Results:
- Open access to genetic sequence data accelerates scientific discovery and innovation.
- Robust funding and collaborative environments are essential for technological breakthroughs.
- The agricultural sector can achieve significant improvements in crop production through similar approaches.
Conclusions:
- Unfettered access to and use of genetic sequence data are vital for improving global crop production.
- A regulatory environment that supports data sharing, coupled with substantial funding, is essential for agricultural advancement.
- A collaborative approach, mirroring the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is needed to address global food security challenges.
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