Tools and Applications of Bioinformatics in Sericulture: A Review

Rapid advances in genomic and other molecular research tools, as well as advances in information technology, have resulted in a massive volume of data relevant to molecular biology during the last several decades. The term "bioinformatics" refers to the mathematical and computational methods used to get a better understanding of biological processes. Bioinformatics commonly uses genetic sequences, which are easier to manage with computers than by hand. Although genomic and proteomic techniques have advanced our understanding of how genes and proteins contribute to physiology, biochemistry, genetics, and evolution in insects, a complete picture of genomics and proteomics and their interactions remains difficult. Meanwhile, bioinformatics developments have discovered hidden omics features in other species, leaving insects with a substantial information gap. Bombyx mori has sparked research interest in countries all over the world due to its adaptability and status as the first Lepidopteran species to have its genome sequenced. The entire genome sequence of the silkworm was reported in 2004 and updated in 2008 based on its biological and industrial value. The genome of B. mori was the first in a lepidopteran to be sequenced, and it has served as a foundation for Lepidoptera research. Bioinformatics tools and techniques not only aided in the detection of proteomic and genomic variation among species/strains, but also led to the discovery of a gap in a silkworm genome sequence that diverged during domestication. Databases of Seri-bioinformatics are an important Seri-bioresource. The accessible internet resources on silkworms and associated organisms, such as databases and informational websites like SilkDB, MorusDB, WildSilkbase, KAIKObase, SilkPathDB etc., have aid in the improvement of silkworm health, disease resistance, and productivity. These databases contain information on gene, protein, disease sequences, and have evolved as a highly beneficial platform via which the scientific community may communicate molecular data across the globe with a single mouse click, not only minimizing the gap and time but also allowing information to be accessed. This review paper will cover all of these bioinformatics tools and methodologies in order to better understand their application in silkworms and host plants.