With the human genome mostly sequenced, a group of ANU researchers believe a revolution in immunology is imminent.
"The human genome database will allow us to discover new genes many times faster than previously possible", Dr Aude Fahrer of the John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR) said.
Researchers have described three methods for identifying and understanding genes based on information from the Human Genome Project (HGP).
One method the team has used to determine the genes or 'words' is to compare the sequence of known genes with the rest of the newly sequenced genome.
"Any matches should represent a gene of similar function. This is extremely useful for finding a family of similar genes that may have very similar functions", Dr Faher said.
Another method that is more effective for discovering completely novel genes is to use a new technology called gene chips.
Known sequences of DNA "¦..are attached to the gene chip. The contents of the cell to be investigated are then labelled and reacted with the gene chips. Any matches will bind together allowing the contents of the cell to be identified with the known sequence on the gene chip.
The final part "¦"¦[is] how the human and mouse genome sequences will help scientists connect genes with functions.
This method is already being used in Professor Chris Goodnow's laboratory at JCSMR, where genes are being randomly disrupted to see if they are important in immunity or cancer".
Item provided courtesy of ANU Reporter.
