DOE Genomics:GTL Program
Genomics and Its Impact on Science and Society: The Human Genome Project and Beyond

Exploring Genomes for Energy and Environmental Applications

The Genomics:GTL (formerly Genomes to Life) program of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is using the Human Genome Project’s technological achievements to help solve our growing energy and environmental challenges.

Today, genomics is the starting point for a new level of exploration across the life sciences. The GTL research program uses genomic (DNA) sequences of microbes and plants to launch large-scale investigations into their wide-ranging biochemical capabilities having potential applications in bioenergy and the environment (see sidebar below). Before these biological processes can be safely and economically harnessed for such uses, however, they must be understood in far greater detail and in the context of their operations within a dynamic, living organism.

To obtain this whole-systems knowledge, GTL investigates relevant plant and microbial properties on multiple levels. Starting with the DNA sequence, studies follow its expression (e.g., protein production, interactions, and regulation) in individual cells and populations of cells or organisms in ecosystems. Integrating genomic and many other data types into a computerized knowledgebase will stimulate new research strategies and insights needed for specialized applications.

GTL Investigations of Microbial and Plant Genomes
Microbes and plants have evolved unique biochemistries, offering a rich resource that can be applied to diverse national needs. Some recent projects funded by the DOE Genomics:GTL program highlight the potential wealth of natural capabilities available.

Plants for Biomass, Carbon Storage
Understanding the genes and regulatory mechanisms controlling growth and other traits in the recently sequenced poplar tree may lead to its use for bioethanol production and for sequestration (storage) of carbon.

Microbes Living in Termites: A Potential Source of Enzymes for Bioenergy Production
GTL researchers are investigating bacteria that live in termite hindguts and churn out wood-digesting enzymes. These proteins may be usable for breaking down plant cellulose into sugars needed for ethanol production. Termites also produce hydrogen as a by-product, a process that potentially could be reproduced on a larger scale.

Synthetic Nanostructures: Harnessing Microbial Enzyme Functions
Enzymes incorporated into synthetic membranes can carry out some of the functions of living cells and may be useful for generating energy, inactivating contaminants, and sequestering atmospheric carbon.
The online presentation of this publication is a special feature of the Human Genome Project Information Web site.