Plant Genomics and Proteomics

Plant research has stood at the forefront of the genomics revolution. One of the first genome projects, the sequencing of the commonly used model organism Arabidopsis, has already yielded important results for the study of a broad array of crops such as corn and soybeans. With crop and food bioengineering only in its infancy, the need to understand the fundamental genetic mechanisms of plants will only become more pressing. A comprehensive guide to this fascinating area of genomics, Plant Genomics and Proteomics presents an integrated, broadly accessible treatment of the complex relationship between the genome, transcriptome, and proteome of plants. This clearly written text introduces the reader to the range of molecular techniques applicable to investigating the unique facets of plant growth, development, and response to the environment. Coverage includes: Functional and structural genomics addressed within the context of current techniques and challenges to come How to utilize DNA and protein sequence data Practical considerations for choosing and employing the most commonly available computer applications A review of applications for biotechnology, including genetic modification and defense against pathogens Bioinformatics tools and Web resources Numerous examples from the latest research throughout Assuming no specialized knowledge of plant biology on the part of its reader, Plant Genomics and Proteomics provides an invaluable resource for students and researchers in biotechnology, plant biology, genomics, and bioinformatics.

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgements. Introduction. 1. The Structure of Plant Genomes. 2. The Basic Toolbox?Acquiring Functional Genomic Data. 3. Sequencing Strategies. 4. Gene Discovery. 5. Control of Gene Expression. 6. Functional Genomics. 7. Interactions with the External Environment. 8. Identification and Manipulation of Complex Traits. 9. Bioinformatics. 10. Bioethical Concerns and the Future of Plant Genomics. Afterword. Index.

About the Author :
Dr. Christopher A. Cullis is Frances Hobart Herrick Professor of Biology and past Dean at Case Western Reserve University. He served as Program Director of the Plant Genome Research Program at the National Science Foundation and founded a biotechnology company, NovoMark Technologies. Dr. Cullis has worked in plant molecular biology for more than 30 years, and his main research interests focus on how the genome changes, particularly in response to stress.  He has also worked on many species ranging from Arabidopsis to pines. Dr. Cullis has 15 years experience teaching molecular genetics and biotechnology, and he was responsible for initiating and directing outreach programs and resources for molecular biology, biotechnology and genetics to high school students and their teachers.  He has published about 100 articles in refereed journals, reviews, and conference proceedings.

Review :
"?this valuable book with its introductory descriptions of new developments in plant genomics can be recommended to scientists, lecturers, and person who are not very familiar with plant genomics?" (Journal of Plant Physiology, December 2004) "?a comprehensive and clear introduction to the methods currently employed in plant molecular biology." (E-STREAMS, July 2004) "An up-to-date technical guide which describes a plethora of approaches used to gain knowledge of a plant's genes, their structure and function?. A helpful publication for individuals with a background in genetics or cell/molecular biology." (Southern Naturalist, March 2004) "?the author does an admirable job of summarizing a large and growing field." (Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, July 2003)