Transcriptome
Japanese: トランスクリプトーム
The totality of all mRNA present in a cell at a given time and condition. It reveals which genes are actually being expressed, functionally complementing genomic information.
The transcriptome is the collection of all mRNA being expressed in a cell at a given moment. If the genome is the complete set of blueprints one possesses, the transcriptome is the set of blueprints currently in use.
When koji mold grows on steamed rice, only a portion of its 12,000-plus genes are actually active. When temperature changes, amylase genes activate; in protein-rich environments, protease genes are preferentially read. Transcriptome analysis is a technology that visualizes the microbe's current state.
If the genome is a static dictionary, the transcriptome is a dynamic conversation—a clue to understanding what the microorganism is thinking and planning to do right now.