2.2 Pre-lab - Scientific Literature
2.2.1 Purpose
Obtain a high level overview of metagenomics by reading R.D. Sleator, C. Shortall, and C. Hill. Metagenomics. Letters in Applied Microbiology. 2008 Nov;47(5):361-6. (pubmed.gov/19146522)
2.2.2 Learning Objectives
- Read a review paper that summarizes the field of metagenomics.
- Broadly understand the scope of the review and the gaps in the field.
2.2.3 Introduction
The vast majority of all micro-organisms on Earch remain uncultured (K.G. Lloyd et al, 2019). Additionally, in complex environments like soil and water, most micro-organisms remain unidentified (M. Delgado-Baquerizo, 2019). The field of metagenomics is a culture-independend approach which aims to remedy these gaps in knowledge (J. Handelsman, 2004). Metagenomics is the study of genomic (sequencing) data obtained directly from environmental (and other, e.g. clinical) samples and provides new meaningful information on the diversity and function of microorganisms.
2.2.4 Activity
Estimated time: 50 min
2.2.4.1 Instructions
Read the review paper “Metagenomics” by Sleator, Shortall, and Hill, 2008 Lett Appl Microbiol and answer the following questions.