Using venoms to map critical and evolutionary conserved vulnerabilities. We have developed and applied new functional genomic approaches to study venom evolution. Using CRISPR screening, we find that unrelated venoms act on cells by exploiting the same vulnerabilities. By functionally mapping these vulnerabilities for all venom classes, we can begin to develop universal venom antidotes. Conversely, much of what we know about venom mechanisms comes from a small percentage of the biodiversity with ....Using venoms to map critical and evolutionary conserved vulnerabilities. We have developed and applied new functional genomic approaches to study venom evolution. Using CRISPR screening, we find that unrelated venoms act on cells by exploiting the same vulnerabilities. By functionally mapping these vulnerabilities for all venom classes, we can begin to develop universal venom antidotes. Conversely, much of what we know about venom mechanisms comes from a small percentage of the biodiversity within a venom, and we have developed genomic tools to study the venom “dark matter”. This work will lead to the full molecular characterisation of venom biodiversity, and new venom components will be useful for research or as novel medicines.Read moreRead less
The evolution of multipartite mitochondrial genomes in the cyst-forming nematodes. The cyst-forming nematodes are a serious pest of agricultural crops throughout the world, attacking cereal, root and legume crops. Although sporadically recorded in Australia, they have not become established here. This project will characterize unique sequences from the noncoding portion of the mitochondrial genome of a range of cyst-forming nematodes, facilitating the development of molecular diagnostic screen ....The evolution of multipartite mitochondrial genomes in the cyst-forming nematodes. The cyst-forming nematodes are a serious pest of agricultural crops throughout the world, attacking cereal, root and legume crops. Although sporadically recorded in Australia, they have not become established here. This project will characterize unique sequences from the noncoding portion of the mitochondrial genome of a range of cyst-forming nematodes, facilitating the development of molecular diagnostic screening tools for these crop pests. This program will train a number of young scientists with skills in biotechnology, preparing them to join programs safeguarding our agricultural industries.Read moreRead less
Improving access to phylogenomic resources for under-resourced species: a new look at existing tools. This project will have an impact on our understanding of how to most effectively use existing genomic resources to benefit a wider range of species and to better design new genomic resources. By doing so, improved access to genomic resources will be provided to species that currently have few options.