Summary
Uses genome-wide screens, like CRISPR knockouts, to determine what genes do.
In depth
Methods: RNAi screens, CRISPR knockout/interference/activation screens, transposon mutagenesis and GWAS follow-up. Pooled screens with sequencing readouts test thousands of genes in one experiment.
CRISPRi (interference) and CRISPRa (activation) alter expression without cutting. Perturb-seq combines perturbations with single-cell readouts. Hits require validation.
Example: screens identify genes needed for cancer cell survival, which are drug targets.
Functional genomics asks what genes do at genome scale. Technologies include RNA-seq for expression, ChIP-seq for protein-DNA binding, and genome-wide screens that perturb every gene to see the effect.
In CRISPR knockout screens, a library of guide RNAs targets each gene in a pooled population of cells; sequencing shows which guides are lost or enriched under a condition such as drug treatment, identifying genes essential for survival or resistance. CRISPR interference and activation screens tune expression.
Example: screens found host proteins needed for viral entry.
Key idea: this turns lists of genes into knowledge of roles and pathways.
Frequently asked questions
What is Functional Genomics?
Uses genome-wide screens, like CRISPR knockouts, to determine what genes do.
Which area of biology covers Functional Genomics, and how advanced is it?
Functional Genomics is one of the 56 topics in Biotechnology & Genomics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include RNA-Seq, Genetic Engineering, Machine Learning in Biology.
Can you give an example of Functional Genomics?
Genome-wide CRISPR screens identified host factors needed for viruses.
What should I learn before Functional Genomics?
Work through the Beginner topics in Biotechnology & Genomics first, such as Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding, then return to Functional Genomics. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Functional Genomics?
The closest topics to Functional Genomics are RNA-Seq, Genetic Engineering, Machine Learning in Biology, Transgenic Organisms. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Functional Genomics?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Functional Genomics. To practise the whole of Biotechnology & Genomics, use the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz.
How is Functional Genomics different from RNA-Seq?
Functional Genomics: Uses genome-wide screens, like CRISPR knockouts, to determine what genes do. RNA-Seq: Sequencing of cDNA from RNA to quantify gene expression and discover transcripts across the genome. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Functional Genomics step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with RNA-Seq and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.