Genome project to sequence DNA from 10,000 species

After charting the human genome, scientists have moved on to other species, mapping the genes of about 60 animals, from the familiar cat, dog and lab mouse, to the lesser known pufferfish, sloth, and tree shrew. Now, scientists including an Oregon State University researcher are launching a project to push the number to 10,000 complete genomes from vertebrate animals. Organizers of the Genome 10K project say it will give biologists the means to answer questions they couldn't tackle before. The data, for instance, could help researchers measure the genetic diversity of endangered animal populations, and make it possible to retrace detailed steps in the evolution of vertebrates. Journal of Heredity will publish a scientific report on the project this week...read more