Fish genomics: A mini-review on some structural and evolutionary issues

This brief outline of fish genomics will concentrate on some general genome features, as investigated in our laboratory using a "compositional approach". In the first phase (1976-1991) the main experimental tool was density gradient ultracentrifugation, both analytical and preparative. This led to a number of conclusions that were very relevant as far as the genome structure and evolution of vertebrates are concerned. After an intermezzo (1991-2001) in which investigations started to take advantage of the short but increasing supply of nucleotide sequences, a second phase (2001-present) developed on the basis of completely sequenced fish genomes. This led us to the current level of knowledge and to further insights.