Metagenomic Profiling, Interaction of Genomics with Meta-genomics

Abstract

Metagenomics is about the sequencing and characterization of genomic DNA of uncultured microbes sampled directly from their habitats. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and the ability of sequencing uncultured microbes have dramatically expanded and transformed our knowledge of the microbial world. In this chapter, we provide an introduction and flavor to metagenomic studies from sampling to data analysis. Also, workflow and several common methodologies are summarized for the sequence-driven metagenomic analysis to identify the composition of microbes, compare different microbial communities, characterize the functional potential of microbial communities and infer the microbes, which are involved in the metabolic pathways. Additionally, we describe some well-established platforms and software, and briefly review their utilities. Finally, an explication of interactions between genomics and meta-genomics gives a new view for host phenotype-genotype analysis