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Submitted to: Annual International Plant & Animal Genome Conference
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 12/12/2017 Publication Date: 1/2/2018 Citation: Smith, T.P.L. 2018. Third time’s a charm: Into “the Genomics Era” once more [abstract]. International Plant & Animal Genome XXVI Conference, January 13-17, 2018, San Diego, California. Abstract W169. Available: https://plan.core-apps.com/pag_2018/abstract Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: The first references to entering “the genomics era” were as early as the mid-1990s, referring (in livestock species) to the development of genetic maps for use in detection of QTL. The development of capillary-based parallel sequencing technology supported the release of the first draft of the human genome in 2000, and very expensive draft genome assemblies for cattle and chickens by 2008. These achievements spawned a second wave of reports on entering “the genomics era”, which soon morphed into discussions of whether we had entered “the post-genome era”, referring to the development of genome-guided selection products and methods. The proclamations and discussions of being in a “post-genome era” had effect on the expectations and funding prospects of continued genome work. Fortunately, technological developments reduced the price of genome science so efforts could continue, albeit largely on an ad hoc basis. At present, we have a third wave of “the genomics era” emerging, supported by technologies that provide improved genome assembly and annotation. Will this be the final time we enter the genomics era? A retrospective and prospective discussion will be presented that suggests that we are, in truth, on the verge of entering a genome era. It is time to look towards the future on how to harness genome technology in all its branches, to advance agriculture. |
