Emerging genetic model systems
Cross-species comparison of developmental gene function and gene regulatory networks
Cross-species comparison of developmental gene function and gene regulatory networks
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New insights by studying emerging model organisms
Most knowledge of gene function comes from a few traditional model organisms. Recent advances now allow functional genetic studies in a wider range of animals, expanding research scope and enabling novel applications. This requires interdisciplinary expertise—from morphology and biodiversity to RNAi, genome editing and bioinformatics. As a group we cover all these skills, working with diverse emerging model systems across the protostome clade.
The function and evolution of the gene regulatory network of head development
In this RTG, we aim to uncover how animal diversity evolves through changes in developmental gene regulatory networks (GRNs). Focusing on anterior head patterning, we study Wnt signaling initiation, gradient dynamics, and target gene interactions in the anterior GRN. Using protostomes and a Cnidarian outgroup, we conduct cross-species experiments to generate comparable data and develop new bioinformatics and machine learning tools to reconstruct and analyze gene regulatory networks. To explore evolutionary novelties, we investigate intriguing traits such as beetle horns, annelid regeneration, and molluscan shells.
The Göttingen Zoo of model systems and the Göttingen Spirit
This RTG is based on the unique “Göttingen Zoo” of model systems and the “Göttingen Spirit” with strong scientific interactions between University, Max-Planck-Institutes and University Medical Center.
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