The wheat genome is five times larger than the human genome and presents a huge challenge for scientists. The genome sequences are an important tool for researchers and for plant breeders, and by making the data publicly available we are ensuring this publicly funded research has the widest possible impact.
The first sequence coverage of the wheat genome has been publicly released by a team of UK researchers, including scientists from the University of Bristol. The release is a step towards a fully annotated genome and makes a significant contribution to efforts to support global food security and to increase the competitiveness of UK farming. The genome sequences released comprise five read-throughs of a reference variety of wheat and gives scientists and breeders access to 95 per cent of all wheat genes. This is among the largest genome projects undertaken, and the rapid public release of the data is expected to significantly accelerate the use of the information by wheat breeding companies. The team involved Professor Keith Edwards and Dr Gary Barker at the University of Bristol's School of Biological Sciences , Professor Neil Hall and Dr Anthony Hall at the University of Liverpool , and Professor Mike Bevan at the John Innes Centre , a BBSRC-funded Institute. Professor Edwards said: 'The wheat genome is five times larger than the human genome and presents a huge challenge for scientists. The genome sequences are an important tool for researchers and for plant breeders, and by making the data publicly available we are ensuring this publicly funded research has the widest possible impact.' The genome data released is in a 'raw' format, comprising sequence reads of the wheat genome in the form of letters representing the genetic 'code'.
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