Whole genome sequencing of Penium

The plant cell wall is unique with its many polymers and functions. Evolutionary aspects of the biochemically characterisation of plant cell walls is of major interest as valuable information on plant physiology and applied aspects can be gained. To complement this work analysis of genomic and transcriptional sequence is of great importance. 

 

Recent work by the section on characterisation of the genome of the model grass Brachypodium (International Brachypodium Initiative) and the evolutionary old spikemoss Selaginella moellendorfii (Banks et al., 2011) have lead to the conclusion that genome sequences are needed for species with a simpler cell wall then plants.

 

The algea, Penium have a simpler cell wall then plants and can be cultivated. Of special interest is that the Penium cell wall contains pectin and hence valuable genomic information can be gained on pectin biosynthesis.

The work is in collaboration with David Domozych of Skidmore College, NY, USA and the group of Jocelyn Rose at Cornell University, NY, USA.