New DNA Tool Probes Rice Genome

Through the new tool DNA microarray, the rice genome will be searched for genes that are responsible for carrying out important metabolic processes including respiration. Researchers at the University of California Davis led by Pamela Ronald, a professor in plant pathology, are currently investigating the rice genome through DNA fragments that are fixed on a slide - DNA microarray. With this method the genes responsible for the response to stimulus or stresses can be identified in rice. To study in detail the genes that govern respiration, Ronald and her colleagues used the technique to compare genes that are expressed in the rice plants when grown in the light versus dark. Genes will be combined, analyzed and together with the biochemical data, correctly predict the candidate genes.

"The methods and array developed in this paper will aid researchers in identifying the function of the 45,000 rice genes, only a few of which have so far been characterized," Ronald said. To further accelerate this research, scientists who are also working on the rice microarray can access a Web-based program to compare the gene expression profiles across multiple rice microarray platforms. 

For details, see article at  http://news.ucanr.org/newsstorymain.cfm?story=1155