The Algal Revolution
2017
Brodie, J | Chan, CX | De Clerck, O | Cock, JM | Coelho, SM | Gachon, C | Grossman, AR | Mock, T | Raven, JA | Smith, AG | Yoon, HS | Bhattacharya, D
Algae are (mostly) photosynthetic eukaryotes that occupy multiple branches of the tree of life, and are vital for planet function and health. This review highlights a transformative period in studies of the evolution and functioning of this extraordinary group of organisms and their potential for novel applications, wrought by high- throughput 'omic' and reverse genetic methods. It covers the origin and diversification of algal groups, explores advances in understanding the link between phenotype and genotype, considers algal sex determination, and reviews progress in understanding the roots of algal multicellularity. Experimental evolution studies to determine how algae evolve in changing environments are highlighted, as is their potential as production platforms for compounds of commercial interest such as biofuel precursors, nutraceuticals, or therapeutics.
显示更多 [+] 显示较少 [-]This manuscript is an outcome of a symposium hosted in June 2016 by The Royal Society entitled ‘Into the genome: advances in the world of algal genomics’, at Chicheley Hall, Buckinghamshire, UK. The symposium organizers, J.B. and D.B., are grateful to the Royal Society for supporting this event. We thank Dr. Doris Gangl for designing Figure 2. The University of Dundee is a registered Scottish charity, No. 015096.
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