Biotech Updates

Researcher Rationalizes Investment and Effort in Whole Genome Sequencing

June 24, 2011

S.R. Bhat of the National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology discussed through an article the relevance of whole genome sequencing for agricultural applications and the need for urgent investment in developing proper tools, biological resources, and manpower in biotechnology and bioinformatics to maximize the benefits of the technologies.

According to Bhat, there is a long way to go before mapping populations for specific traits in various crops be maximized to benefit the stakeholders. In India alone, there is a strong need for support in developing bioinformatics capabilities. He concluded that "whole genome sequence information of crop/animal species is invaluable for application in crop and animal improvement, and investment on genome sequencing project needs careful consideration of various intended downstream uses and preparedness to harness the information."

Read more details at http://www.ias.ac.in/currsci/10jun2011/1633.pdf.