BioProject

A draft genome sequence of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) RRIM 928 latex/timber clone has been completed in the UK. More...

A draft genome sequence of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) RRIM 928 latex/timber clone has been completed in the UK. The work was carried out by the Malaysian Rubber Board’s research centre in the United Kingdom, the Tun Abdul Razak Research Centre (TARRC), and The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC), Norwich Research Park, UK. The Hevea genome is estimated to be approximately 2 Gb in size, making it one of the largest plant genomes sequenced to date. First annotation of the sequence assembly has found strong similarity to cassava and castor bean, members of the same Euphorbiaceae family. Initial analysis suggests a coding region of around 20% of the genome and, at this early stage of analysis, we estimate that the Hevea genome may contain in the region of 43,000 gene models. The sequencing, assembly and annotation of the genome marks a significant cornerstone in accelerating the commercial development of this important commodity and in addressing many of the issues facing rubber growers and manufacturers. Traditional rubber tree improvement is a very lengthy and difficult process. The availability of the annotated Hevea genome sequence will enable the development of a large database of molecular markers that can be used to identify the genes involved in important traits, providing enormous scope for the improvement of natural rubber properties and of overall crop performance. Novel markers will help make breeding schemes more efficient. Less...