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Genomics

Genomics

Genomics is the science of genomes: it is the study of all the genetic material of an organism. In humans, the genome consists of information carried in 23 pairs of chromosomes in the nucleus, as well as mitochondrial DNA. In genomics, both coding and non-coding DNA is sequenced and analyzed. Genomics allows a better understanding of all living things, their evolution, and their diversity. It has a myriad of uses: for example, to build phylogenetic trees, to improve productivity and...

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The genome refers to all of the genetic material in an organism. It can range from a few million base pairs in microbial cells to several billion base pairs in many eukaryotic organisms. Genome assembly refers to the process of taking the DNA sequencing data and putting it all back together in a correct order to create a close representation of the original genome. This is followed by the identification of functional elements on the newly assembled genome, a process called genome annotation.

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Genome comparison is one of the excellent ways to interpret the evolutionary relationships between organisms. The basic principle of genome comparison is that if two species share a common feature, it is likely encoded by the DNA sequence conserved between both species. The advent of genome sequencing technologies in the late 20th century enabled scientists to understand the concept of conservation of domains between species and helped them to deduce evolutionary relationships across diverse...

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Updated: May 25, 2025

Tick Microbiome Characterization by Next-Generation 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing

Tick Microbiome Characterization by Next-Generation 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing

Published on: August 25, 2018

Bridging data gaps: African reference genomes advancing inclusive microbiome research.

Soumaya Kouidhi¹, Jo-Ann S Passmore², Mathabatha Evodia Setati³

¹Laboratory of Biotechnology and Valorisation of Bio-Geo Resources (LR11ES31), Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Sidi Thabet, BiotechPole of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Ariana, Tunisia.

Trends in Microbiology

|February 25, 2025

Summary

African microbiome research requires region-specific reference genomes. Developing these genomes will improve health, agriculture, and sustainability outcomes across the continent.

Keywords:

African-specific microbiome data sharing locally-led genome projects precision microbiome research reference genomes regional customization

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Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing

Published on: October 15, 2019

Area of Science:

Microbiology
Genomics
Bioinformatics

Background:

Global microbiome reference genomes lack African ecological and demographic specificity.
Existing research frameworks do not adequately address Africa's unique needs.
Limited African-specific genomic data hinders advancements in critical sectors.

Purpose of the Study:

To highlight the critical need for African-specific microbiome reference genomes.
To advocate for the development of community-driven, Africa-focused genomic initiatives.
To emphasize the importance of reflecting continental diversity in genomic research.

Main Methods:

This is a commentary, not an empirical study.
Analysis of current gaps in global microbiome reference data.
Review of existing research guidelines and their applicability to Africa.

Main Results:

The absence of African-specific reference genomes is a significant research barrier.
Current global guidelines are insufficient for African contexts.
Tailored initiatives are necessary to address regional diversity.

Conclusions:

Prioritizing Africa-focused microbiome initiatives is essential.
Community-driven genome projects will enhance research applicability.
Addressing continental diversity is key for impactful health, agriculture, and sustainability outcomes.