Using comparative genomics to identify genes responsible for adaptation to environmental toxins. The US National Human Genome Research Institute has committed to sequencing the genomes of ten different Drosophila (fly) species. We will search these genomes, and two others that are already available, for genes that allow flies to cope with environmental toxins found in the plants upon which they feed and breed. These same genes have the potential to degrade many of the insecticides used to con ....Using comparative genomics to identify genes responsible for adaptation to environmental toxins. The US National Human Genome Research Institute has committed to sequencing the genomes of ten different Drosophila (fly) species. We will search these genomes, and two others that are already available, for genes that allow flies to cope with environmental toxins found in the plants upon which they feed and breed. These same genes have the potential to degrade many of the insecticides used to control insect pests. Hence, this research will contribute to ongoing efforts to minimize the threat to agriculture posed by the insecticide resistance that frequently evolves in pest species. Read moreRead less
The making of a sea shell: function and evolution of genes encoding calcareous architectures of phenomenal strength, purity and beauty. The mollusc shell is composed of microscopic layers of tabular calcium carbonate crystals and thin sheets of proteins with precise nanoscale architectures. This configuration produces a high-performance composite material that exceeds the present capabilities of human engineering. This integrated study will elucidate the molecular mechanisms controlling the fab ....The making of a sea shell: function and evolution of genes encoding calcareous architectures of phenomenal strength, purity and beauty. The mollusc shell is composed of microscopic layers of tabular calcium carbonate crystals and thin sheets of proteins with precise nanoscale architectures. This configuration produces a high-performance composite material that exceeds the present capabilities of human engineering. This integrated study will elucidate the molecular mechanisms controlling the fabrication of these architectures. This knowledge will contribute significantly to the development of materials for advanced electronics and energy transducers, human bone therapeutics and marine?based products such as pearls and cements, through the identification of genes underlying biofabrication networks and the development of in vitro bioproduction systems. Read moreRead less