Charting plant gene functions in the multi-omics and single-cell era

Despite the increased access to high-quality plant genome sequences, the set of genes with a known function remains far from complete. With the advent of novel bulk and single-cell omics profiling methods, we are entering a new era where advanced and highly integrative functional annotation strategies are being developed to elucidate the functions of all plant genes. Here, we review different multi-omics approaches to improve functional and regulatory gene characterization and highlight the power of machine learning and network biology to fully exploit the complementary information embedded in different omics layers. Finally, we discuss the potential of emerging single-cell methods and algorithms to further increase the resolution, allowing generation of functional insights about plant biology.

Automated summary

Despite the availability of high-quality plant genome sequences, our understanding of the functions of genes is still limited. New multi-omics approaches and advanced annotation strategies, such as machine learning and network biology, are being used to uncover the functions of all plant genes. Additionally, emerging single-cell methods and algorithms have the potential to provide more detailed insights into plant biology.