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New science of metagenomics 'will transform modern microbiology'

03-27-2007 · EurekAlert!

The emerging field of metagenomics, where the DNA of entire communities of microbes is studied simultaneously, presents the greatest opportunity -- perhaps since the invention of the microscope -- to revolutionize understanding of the microbial world, says a new report from the National Research Council. The report calls for a new Global Metagenomics Initiative to drive advances in the field in the same way that the Human Genome Project advanced the mapping of our genetic code.

Keywords: science, metagenomics, transform, modern, microbiology, metagenomic

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