ARS | Publication request: Brachypodium distachyon genetic resources for grass functional genomics research from the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System

Submitted to: Plant Molecular Biology International Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: August 6, 2009
Publication Date: October 25, 2009
Citation: Hu, J., Bradley, V.L. 2009. Brachypodium distachyon genetic resources for grass functional genomics research from the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System. A poster presented at the Plant Molecular Biology International Conference Proceedings October 26-30, 2009, St. Louis, Missouri.

Technical Abstract: The U.S. National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) is one of the world’s largest national genebank networks focusing on preserving the genetic diversity of plants by acquiring, preserving, evaluating, documenting and distributing crop-related germplasm to researchers worldwide. The cool season grass Brachypodium distachyon (L.) P. Beauv. and related species are managed through the NPGS by the Western Regional Plant Introduction Station (WRPIS) in Pullman, Washington. The NPGS uses a well-established database, the Genetic Resource Information Network (GRIN), to collect and disseminate taxonomic, passport, source, evaluation, inventory, cooperator, and distribution information on each accession. A strong correlation between germplasm distribution data and genomics research activities has been observed for B. distachyon. From January 1, 1987 to July 29, 2009, the NPGS distributed 126 orders of B. distachyon to 124 research groups in 19 countries for a total of 1,247 seed packets. Of these, 1,044 packets were distributed after this species was proposed as a model plant for grass functional genomics by Draper et al. in 2001. Moreover, 64.5% (805 packets) of the total distribution went to 78 requesters in the USA, implying that the USA is the major player using B. distachyon as a model for grass functional genomics research. Currently there are 30 accessions of B. distachyon in the NPGS, and 23 accessions are available for distribution. We will expand the collection by acquiring voluntary donations of genetic resources as seeds and will continue to supply accessions to interested parties in the global Brachypodium research community.