ENGRESCATS-Hi-C

The project is framed within the Earth BioGenome Project (EBP), an international initiative aimed at generating high-quality reference genomes for all eukaryotic species. Within the ENGRESCATs consortium, we have generated long-read sequencing data and contig-level genome assemblies for several species. However, significant technical challenges have been encountered in implementing Hi-C protocols and in obtaining high-quality data from recalcitrant plant species.

The main objective of the present proposal is to overcome these limitations and advance towards the generation of high-quality plant genomes following EBP standards. First, seven genomes will be completed through the generation of outsourced Hi-C data to obtain chromosome-level assemblies. The resulting genomes will be structurally and functionally annotated and published. Second, HMW DNA extraction protocols will be optimized for challenging species, particularly those with protective epidermal structures. Nuclear isolation and Hi-C library preparation protocols will also be improved to build the necessary in-house know-how within the CBP and increase its methodological independence. All methodological optimizations will be systematically documented and made available to the scientific community..

FUNDING