Genome annotation

Definition

Genome annotation is the process of identifying and marking the locations of genes and other features within a genome sequence. It includes predicting gene functions and coding regions, as well as identifying regulatory elements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Genome annotation involves both structural annotation (identifying elements like genes) and functional annotation (predicting gene functions).
2. Automated software tools are commonly used in genome annotation to manage large datasets efficiently.
3. One of the primary goals of genome annotation is to create a comprehensive map that can be used for further biological research.
4. Functional annotation can involve comparing sequences against known databases to predict gene function.
5. Genome annotation is crucial for understanding genetic diseases, evolutionary biology, and biotechnology applications.

Review Questions

• What are the two main types of genome annotation?
• Why is automated software important in the process of genome annotation?
• How does functional annotation differ from structural annotation?

Related terms

Gene Prediction: The process of identifying regions of genomic DNA that encode genes.

Bioinformatics: An interdisciplinary field that develops methods and software tools for understanding biological data, including genome sequences.

Regulatory Elements: Sequences in the genome that control gene expression but do not code for proteins themselves.