Ciências “ômicas” aplicadas à análise de sementes

Abstract

Seed analysis consists of the evaluation of seed quality through the use of different techniques for the most varied purposes. Many tools can be used, among them the “omics” sciences. This set of approaches can be considered a substantial technological advance for seed analysis. Within the techniques that are part of this set of science, the following stand out: transcriptomics (study of genetic transcripts, RNA‟s), proteomics (study of proteins), metabolomics (study of metabolites) and lipidomics (study of lipids). However, in relation to the forest seed analysis, these techniques are still not widespread. Thus, the objective of this work was to develop an exploratory study on the use of “omics” sciences for seed analysis, highlighting their objectives and technologies used. To this end, a database was created using Google academic as a search tool. Search terms were established in Portuguese and in English, which were: transcriptoma, proteoma, metaboloma, lipidoma para análise de sementes e para sementes florestais, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, lipidomic for seeds, for forest seeds analysis, for seeds analysis. The selected studies were grouped in tables according to the technique used: Transcriptomics, Proteomics, Metabolomics and Lipidomics. Species, purpose of the study, classification regarding use (Agricultural, Forestry, Medicinal and Others), origin of the studies (national or international) and year of publication were also identified. A total of 105 studies were analyzed, in which 64 corresponded to agricultural species, 18 forestry, 13 others and 10 were classified as medicinal. Between all the studies analyzed, 77% corresponded to international studies. Among the national studies, the most expressive techniques were: Transcriptomics and Proteomics with 38% and 28%, respectively. Regarding the year of publication, the oldest was Proteomics, in 2001. Regarding the classification of use for the species studied, the largest number of studies was developed with agricultural species, due to the greater development and investments of the sector, which has more resources for investment in advanced technologies. However, even if forest species are less studied, it is observed that the field of omics is a promising and developing area, and may have several applications in the future. Therefore, the importance of expanding investments in research in the field of forest seeds is emphasized, especially for native species, whose knowledge is incipient in view of the diversity and importance of species.