Advantage Description Example Reference
Identification of key regulatory genes and their targets GRNs can reveal the regulatory mechanisms that control gene expression in microbial communities, identifying key regulatory genes and their targets. Identifying the regulatory network controlling the production of antibiotics in Streptomyces bacteria. Urem et al., 2016
Uncovering the genetic architecture of microbial communities GRNs can help to identify the genetic basis of microbial traits and the interactions between genes, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic architecture of microbial communities. Mapping the gene interactions involved in nitrogen fixation in a soil microbiome. Epihov et al., 2021
Identification of functional roles of specific microbial species GRNs can help to identify the functional roles of specific microbial species within a community, shedding light on their ecological functions and interactions with other community members. Identifying the metabolic pathways of a specific bacterial species involved in the degradation of hydrocarbons in an oil spill. Dombrowski et al., 2016
Understanding the mechanisms underlying ecological processes GRNs can reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling and bioremediation, enabling a more detailed understanding of microbial ecosystem functioning. Identifying the regulatory networks controlling the uptake and assimilation of nitrogen in a microbial community involved in nitrogen cycling. Mooshammer et al., 2014
Enhanced understanding of microbial diversity and evolution GRNs can provide insights into the evolution of microbial communities and the mechanisms driving microbial diversity. Studying the evolution of gene regulation in bacterial lineages from different environments. Babu et al., 2006
Development of new biotechnologies GRNs can help to identify novel enzymes and metabolic pathways with potential biotechnological applications. Identifying the genes and pathways involved in the production of biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass. Velvizhi et al., 2022
Integration of data from different sources GRNs can integrate data from multiple sources, including transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of microbial communities. Integrating transcriptomic and proteomic data to identify the key genes and proteins involved in microbial interactions in a soil microbiome. Saraiva et al., 2021
Identification of complex interactions and feedback mechanisms within microbial communities
GRNs can reveal the complex interactions and feedback mechanisms between genes and regulatory factors within microbial communities.
Identifying the feedback mechanisms involved in the regulation of virulence genes in pathogenic bacteria.
Yarwood et al., 2001
Potential for developing sustainable solutions to environmental problems GRNs can provide insights into the functional roles of microbial communities in biogeochemical cycles and bioremediation, enabling the development of more sustainable solutions to environmental problems. Identifying the microbial communities involved in the degradation of pollutants in contaminated soil and developing strategies to enhance their activity. Abraham et al., 2002
Improved strategies for treating and preventing microbial infections GRNs can provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis, enabling the development of more effective strategies for treating and preventing microbial infections. Identifying the regulatory networks controlling the expression of virulence genes in bacterial pathogens and developing new approaches to target these networks. Kreikemeyer et al., 2003
Better adaptation of microbial ecosystems to changing conditions GRNs can reveal how microbial communities adapt to changing environmental conditions, enabling a better understanding of the resilience and stability of microbial ecosystems. Studying the adaptive responses of microbial communities to changes in temperature or nutrient availability. Wallenstein and Hall, 2012