THE POWER OF PANGenomes in agricultural breeding programs
G enomics has revolutionized crop global food security by increasing crop productivity, reducing reliance on pesticides, and adapting to the changing needs of a growing population. By analyz- ing the complete set of an organism’s DNA, scientists can pinpoint specific genes responsible for desirable traits like drought tolerance, disease resistance, and increased yield. Historically, scientists relied on single reference genomes to represent entire species for compar- ative analysis when looking for genetic variation. However, this approach can mask significant genetic variation, so many researchers have turned breeding by providing a deeper under- standing of plants’ genetic makeup. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring
to pangenomes, which provide a more comprehen- sive view of genetic diversity. A pangenome is a collection of genes and genetic elements present within a species. It encompasses both the core genome, which is shared by all individuals of the species, and the accessory genome, which contains genes present in only some individuals. By analyzing pangenomes, scientists can gain insights into a species’ evo- lutionary history, identify genes associated with specific traits, and develop new breeding strategies. HudsonAlpha scientists are at the forefront of pangenome research, particularly in plant genom- ics. They have made significant contributions to our understanding of genetic diversity in crops like barley , switchgrass , and millet .
HUDSONALPHA INSTITUTE FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY
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