Although the principle of colinearity between grass genomes is established at the gross level, precise colinearity over, say a YAC, has not yet been demonstrated. Research to demonstrate this would lend considerable confidence to the use of smaller genomes for the map-based isolation of genes identified in larger genomes. Moreover, such studies would indicate how genomes are orgainized at the supragenic level, and how this organization has evolved. Multigenomic-based dissection of key physiological processes Another demonstration that would be of value would be to exploit comparative genetics to analyze a pathway where complete analysis is not possible in any single species, e.g. because the appropriate mutants do not exist. Analysis of all mutants over several species could complete the work.
Suitable pathways are photosynthetic pathways, anthocyanin synthesis, gibberellin synthesis, etc.
This work would necessarily require collaboration between laboratories. Currently, databases exist for maize, Sorghum, the Tritceae cereals, pearl millet and rice. Databases should be developed for foxtail millet, sugar cane, the forage grasses. These should follow a standard format. Ideally a common nomenclature system for anonymous DNA clones and genes should be developed for use throughout the grasses.