Loblolly Pine's Genome Sequenced

A nationwide research team led by University of California Davis Professor David Neale has successfully sequenced the massive genome of the loblolly pine, the most commercially important tree species in the United States and the source of most American paper products. The draft genome, which is seven times bigger than the human genome, is the largest genome sequenced to date and the most complete conifer genome sequence ever published.

The research team used a new sequencing method to tackle the enormous size of loblolly's genome. Developed by University of Maryland researchers, the new method allowed the team to assemble a much more complete genome sequence than the draft assemblies of two other conifer species reported last year. Sequencing confirmed that 82 percent of the loblolly genome is made up of invasive DNA elements and other DNA fragments that copied themselves around the genome. It also revealed the location of genes that may be involved in fighting off pathogens, which will help scientists understand more about disease resistance in pines.

For more details about this research, read the UC Davis news release available at: http://news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=10859.