LGC Genomics and Bioplant R& D sequence the transcriptome of Jatropha curcas
LGC Genomics, the genomics division of LGC, announced that it has completed the sequencing of the whole transcriptome of the different developmental stages of Jatropha curcas seeds on behalf of the Austrian Bioplant R&D, Vienna and the PBU, Department of Biotechnology, VIBT-BOKU, Vienna.
LGC Genomics used a proprietary method and the Roche/454 Titanium sequencing technology to analyse the full-length, optimised, normalised cDNA library of Jatropha curcas. Approximately 12,000 full-length transcripts, assembled with an average 25 fold sequence coverage were obtained.
The species Jatropha of the family Euphorbiaceae has gained global attention as an alternative bioenergy plant. It grows in tropical and subtropical areas and is currently being successfully processed for the production of biodiesel. Jatropha can be planted on poor, contaminated soils which are not suitable for food production and is used in plantations of hedges and barriers to protect vulnerable areas against soil erosion. Jatropha is also used as source of fuel wood, for the production of lamp oil, soap, colours and smear oils and for some medicinal applications.
Steffen Krueger LGC Genomics’ General Manager commented: "LGC Genomics and its partners can be extremely proud of their achievement in the sequencing of this increasingly important fuel alternative. The sequencing of the Jatropha species will not only enable biofuel scientists to understand the plant’s genetic make-up, so aiding in its processing, but will help farmers increase their yields and contribute to the exploration for a genuine alternative to fossil fuels.”
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