Emerging advances in computational omics tools for systems analysis of gramineae family grass species and their abiotic stress responsive functions

C3 and C4 grass species (C3: rice, C4: foxtail millet, sorghum, maize) are simultaneously exposed to one or more abiotic stresses (AbS) either independently or in combination, which leads to loss of nutritional value and yield loss. Throughout the life cycle, these plants face unique and combined AbS (CAbS). A large number of studies have been conducted to understand the molecular mechanisms imparting plant tolerance to diverse unique stresses. Still, the CAbS tolerance mechanism has not been sufficiently studied due to multiple complexities involved. In recent past, several computational omics databases and NGS-based sequencing technologies helped researchers to understand the molecular cross-talks and cellular systems of the plants especially in Gramineae grass species. An innovation in omics and NGS-based research has provided much needed platform to characterize and identify the significance, gain molecular insights, and potential CAbS responsible genes, and promote translational research through available integrated multiple omics approaches. In view of these, this chapter elaborates the novel aspects of the plant cellular systems and CAbS responsive genes via various integrative omics approaches. The chapter also delineates the current status, challenges, and future prospects of plant cellular systems and CAbS responsive gene functional discovery for candidate gene selection and also for understanding their role in enhancing crop yield and tolerance level.