"Genomics is the study of the total genetic complement
of an organism. Of course, scientists have been studying individual genes for
nearly a century. But it is only recently that the biological and computing
tools needed to study whole genomes have become available. The advent of
genomics and related sciences has created a plant genome revolution that is
changing the field of plant biology."
So stated Dr. Mary Clutter on August 3, 1999, in her address
to the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science during a hearing on
Plant Genome Science. The term genomics
was coined in 1986 to help describe the joining of new DNA technologies with
the study of complete genomes (McKusick & Ruddle, 1987). However, this word
has come to encompass a wide spectrum of concepts and research methods,
including both new technologies and new perspectives. It is now not only hard
to define but used in many different contexts.
Despite this ambiguity, in the brief period since its
origination genomics has quickly become a driving force in scientific research
worldwide and particularly in the United States. This can be seen not only in
its pervasiveness in scientific literature and the creation of new research
programs for it, but also in economic terms and the interface between
scientific research and society. As the current paradigms of scientific
research are the fuel of science education, genomics could also influence the
education of our students and future citizens. Therefore this new field has
had, and will continue to have, far-reaching effects, even for the
non-scientist.
This learning module attempts to facilitate an increased
understanding of the concepts and tools of genomics and comparative genomics.
While it does not go into great technical detail about protocols, it does
endeavor to equip a scientist or upper-level student with enough of the
background concepts, current methods, applications and limitations of the tools
of comparative genomics that s/he could make better-informed decisions as to
whether they fit into his/her current research, or simply help those who wish
to stay cognizant of current research and need some background to enable them
to do so.
Institute for Genomic Diversity
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14850
USA