Summary of the science
Scientists have created a map of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast cell, to show how genes interact with each other. They studied 5.4 million pairs of genes to understand how they work together. Genes with similar functions group together and form pathways that define their roles. This map helps us understand how cells function and can be used to find new targets for medicines.
About the research
Boone's lab, in collaboration with Dr. Brenda Andrews' lab, have developed a technology called a Synthetic Genetic Array analysis. This cutting-edge technology allows for the simultaneous integration of multiple genetic elements within a single cell (they utilise the yeast cell Saccharomyces cerevisiae). By conducting genome-wide screens of genetic interactions, they identify crucial gene combinations that regulate essential cellular functions. Using precise measurements of colony size, their robust methodology accurately evaluates both negative and positive genetic interactions. This research provides valuable insights into the organisation of cellular functions and its implications for understanding and addressing human diseases.
About the illustration
To emphasise the idea of the 'genetic map', we decided to overlay a circuit on to the an illustration of the yeast cell. The circuit outlining the shape of the budding cell is there to indicate that the cell is organised into functional subunits, but that different biological process interact with each other at any given time.