Preface

In recent years, methods for studying genomic nucleic acids have developed greatly both in sophistication and in ease of use. This has led to rapid advances in knowledge about gene structure and function. Already the complete nucleotide sequences in the genomes of numerous viruses, and the functions of their genes, are known. Within a few years the structure of the complete genome of the higher plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, should be established. How best can this rapidly expanding body of information be used for the benefit of science and society?