Bioinformatic Approaches and Their Applications in Sericulture

Bioinformatics, the fusion of biology, computer science, and information technology, has become indispensable for comprehending and managing the immense biological data generated by modern molecular techniques. This review explores the significance of bioinformatics in sericulture, focusing on its applications in silkworm (Bombyx mori) and host plant research. Numerous online databases, including SilkDB, KAIKObase, SilkBase, and MorusDB, have been established to organize and provide access to genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data for silkworms, mulberry, and associated organisms. Bioinformatic analyses have facilitated the identification of genes conferring desirable traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and olfactory modulation in silkworms and host plants. Case studies exemplify the utility of bioinformatics in unraveling the defense mechanisms of the silkworm cocoon and tracing horizontal gene transfer events during evolution. The integration of bioinformatics tools has accelerated research progress, enabling informed decision-making for the enhancement of silkworm health, productivity, and the overall sericulture industry. As sericulture in Assam and India possesses immense potential with four distinct silkworm varieties, the strategic application of bioinformatics is crucial for leveraging next-generation sequencing data to drive advancements in this field.