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Research
Interests My research
interests are in the study of
genome and chromosome structure, function and evolution. Past studies
have
examined chromosomal structure at the gross karyological and molecular
levels and the effects of various types of chromosomal rearrangements
on meiotic fitness. Current studies focus on comparative and
functional genomics of poultry (turkey) and fish. |
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My primary research is the development of genomic resources for the turkey. This project provides a comprehensive approach to develop a high-resolution genetic map of this species. Key to this end has been applictaion of chicken genomic resources such as the whole-genome sequence and INRA chicken radiation hybrid panel. The long-term research strategy includes development of genetic markers, expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for construct of a detailed genetic map and analysis of production and disease resistance traits. Despite
its significant economic importance,
the turkey is one of the few agriculturally important species for which
no genomic maps had been constructed. Commodity representatives
identify genomics as a top priority. Specifically, of key importance is
in how genomic information can be integrated into production systems
addressing economical issues associated with animal production. Newly
developed technologies
can be used to identify and map genes associated with these
economically
important traits
Development of new
genetic
markers and a comprehensive turkey linkage map has improved our ability to
determine the genetic location of QTLs with significant effects on
production
traits and disease susceptibility in this species as well as enhance
similar
investigations in the chicken. Construction of the turkey genetic
linkage
map relied on a reference population constructed through a
significant
commitment from the turkey industry and funding from the USDA. |
The search for genes associated with
production
traits
and disease susceptibility in turkey is currently hampered by the lack
of genomic resources. Identification of genes associated with
susceptibility
to this disease alone would greatly impact the industry. In addition to
lowering production costs, genetic enhancement of the immune response
could
increase vaccine efficacy thereby reducing drug residues in food.
We are currently sequencing the B- and RFP-Y loci of the turkey MHC in order
to
develop genetic tools to this end. Better
utilization of genetic information, including basic diagnostic tools
such
as genetic markers and linkage maps, can enhance commercial flocks
through
the selection of genetically superior animals.
A secondary emphasis of my research is the continued study of the sex chromosomes of salmonid fishes. The diversity in sex-determining mechanisms poses a challenge to developmental and evolutionary biologists. For example, sex-determination systems often appear superficially similar (differentiation into phenotypic males and females) yet utilize different underlying mechanisms (chromosomal or environmental). Past research, funded by USDA, provided the first molecular investigation of a sex-chromosome system in salmonids and included isolation of the sex-specific region through microdissection-based cloning. A molecular marker linked to the sex-determining locus was isolated in this species.
In addition to providing further insight into the mechanisms and evolution of sex determination, results of this study provided information on sex-chromosome differentiation and the restrictions sex-determining mechanisms may impose on evolution by polyploidy. For example, it is now clear that the sex chromosomes of salmonids have not been evolutionarily conserved as they have in mammals. I am continuing to collaborate on this project with researchers at the Washington State University with continued funding from USDA.
