Proteomics and metabolomics

Abstract

Sugarcane improvement, whether by conventional or molecular means, relies on an understanding of the biology of the plant, particularly interactions occurring across hierarchical scales of organization. In this regard, the application of metabolomics and proteomics to the study of sugarcane is poised to deliver large volumes of data on protein and metabolite fluctuations associated with developmental and environmental cues, and in response to genetic perturbations. The challenge for the sugarcane research community will be to ensure that such data are generated, interpreted and integrated in a manner that will contribute meaningfully to crop improvement. This challenge is discussed in terms of the limitations to currently available technologies, existing knowledge of sugarcane metabolite and protein composition and lessons learned from metabolomic and proteomic studies of other plant species. Perspectives are presented on potential applications of these technologies to molecular breeding, metabolic engineering, elucidation of stressresponse pathways and regulation of sucrose accumulation.