The Brassicaceae constitute not only one of the most diverse plant families, but also one rich in agronomically-important vegetable and oilseed crops. Several species have been domesticated and include different cabbages, broccoli, turnip, rapeseed, horseradish, and several mustards. Brassicaceae include a number of species that are current and emerging biodiesel crops. Researchers plan to generate high quality genome and transcriptome data sets and associated analyses for the Top 20 Brassicales (18 Brassicaceae plus two outgroup species). The research consortium’s long-term goal is to develop and exploit a within-family comparative genomics research platform that can be used to ask fundamental questions in plant evolutionary biology and to provide essential baseline knowledge for addressing global food and bienergy needs.
PI: Wing, Rod