Modern gene sequencing, whether classical or through genetic engineering, comes with issues of concern, particularly with regard to food crops. The question of whether sequencing can have a negative effect on nutritional value in central in this respect. Although relatively little direct research in this area has been done, there are scientific indications that, by favoring certain aspects of a plant's development, other aspects may be retarded. The emphasis may shift from gene mapping and genome analysis to the analysis of gene function and regulation, determination of genetic disease and somatic gene therapy. The development of novel data handling technologies may also be pursued. The opportunities for various genome projects have been discussed on the basis of advances in DNA sequencing technologies.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Gene Characterisation
Chapter 2: Genetic Resources and Gene-based Inventions
Chapter 3: Inheritance and Molecular Mapping of Genes
Chapter 4: Genome Sequence Database (GSDB)
Chapter 5: Gene Technology and Gene Ecology
Chapter 6: Opportunities in Agriculture
Chapter 7: Genetic Engineering in Agriculture
Chapter 8: Impacts of Genetically Modified Crops
Chapter 9: Biotechnology in the Developing World
Chapter 10: Agricultural and Sustainable Development
Chapter 11: Complex Trait Genetics
Chapter 12: Environmental Safety of GMOs
Chapter 13: Critical Role of Plant Biotechnology.