Functional Annotation of Animal Genomes (FAANG): current Achievements and Roadmap

Functional annotation of genomes is a prerequisite for contemporary basic
and applied genomic research, yet farmed animal genomics are deficient
in such annotation. To address this, the FAANG (Functional Annotation
of Animal Genomes) Consortium is producing genome-wide data sets on
RNA expression, DNA methylation, and chromatin modification, as well as
chromatin accessibility and interactions. In addition to informing our understanding of genome function, including comparative approaches to elucidate constrained sequence or epigenetic elements, these annotation maps
will improve the precision and sensitivity of genomic selection for animal
improvement. A scientific community–driven effort has already created a
coordinated data collection and analysis enterprise crucial for the success of
this global effort. Although it is early in this continuing process, functional
data have already been produced and application to genetic improvement
reported. The functional annotation delivered by the FAANG initiative will
add value and utility to the greatly improved genome sequences being established for domesticated animal species.