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Exploring metagenomes to assess microbiomes across the globe
A metagenome is a sequencing sample of a bulk microbial community, providing a genetic snapshot of the entire microbiome sampled. Metagenomics offers a comprehensive genetic overview of microbial communities, without the limitations of culture-based methods. The introduction of the shotgun method of metagenomics has added the ability to quantify the phylogenetic and functional roles of microbes without primer bias. As sequencing becomes more affordable, shotgun metagenomics is becoming an increasingly popular method for assessing microbiomes.
This webinar with Lucas Ustick, recorded on 28 February 2024, offered a brief introduction to metagenomics and discussed various concepts and methods used in modern metagenomics. Specifically, through this webinar recording you can explore topics such as using microbial composition as an indicator of ecosystem state, using functional genes as biosensors, and the insights that can be gleaned from genomic structure.
Learning outcomes
After watching the webinar recording you will be able to:
- Identify the strengths and limitations inherent in metagenomic data
- Describe how metagenomes can be utilised to interpret ecosystem states
- Explore publicly available metagenomic and genomic databases, as well as analysis tools
You may either watch the entire presentation from the introduction or navigate directly to a specific section by clicking the links provided below:
- Introduction
- Towards a planetary microbiome
- What is a metagenome?
- Scientific concepts and tools
- Metagenome assembled genome (MAG)
- Metagenomics datasets
- Useful tools
- Q&A
On the next page, we will focus on the diverse microbiomes of South America and explore how research in this field can enhance conservation efforts and wildlife management in the region.