Abstract

Integrated Next Generation Genomics Approaches for Discovery of Molecular Signatures associated with Agronomic Traits in Crop Plants

Mukesh Jain, Associate Professor, Jawaharlal Nehru University

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies provide a revolutionary tool with numerous applications. It has accelerated the whole genome/transcriptome sequencing efforts for gene discovery and understanding the molecular basis of important agronomic traits via deployment of various genomics tools. Here, I shall illustrate the use of NGS technologies in generation of genomic resources and connecting genes and (epi)genomic variations to agronomic traits giving examples from a non-model (chickpea) and model (rice) crop plant, which can provide blueprint for their genetic enhancement via biotechnological and/or breeding approaches. Our studies provide insights into the molecular signatures and regulatory mechanisms underlying agronomic traits and will surely facilitate research in various areas of functional and translational genomics in crop plants.