[Seminar] Prof. Byrappa Venkatesh -- Monday, June 17th, 4:00-5:00pm

Mathematical Biology Unit would like to invite you to a seminar by Prof. Byrappa Venkatesh from Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR ( http://www.imcb.a-star.edu.sg/php/venkatesh.php ).

Date: Monday, June 17th, 2013
Time: 4:00 - 5:00PM
Venue: Seminar Room C209

[Speaker]
Prof. Byrappa Venkatesh
Research Director, Comparative Genomics Lab
Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR

Title: Coelacanth Genome and Regulatory Evolution

[Abstract]
It is now widely accepted that mutations in both protein-coding sequences and regulatory elements have contributed to the phenotypic diversity of organisms. However, although there are efficient methods to identify mutations that are under selection in protein-coding sequences, it is a challenge to even reliably predict cis-regulatory elements. We have been using a comparative genomics approach to predict potential cis-regulatory elements based on their conservation in distant vertebrates. We have now extended this strategy to predict potential cis-regulatory elements that evolved at different stages of vertebrate evolution and investigate their association with major phenotypic innovations. The lobe-finned fishes, comprising lungfishes and coelacanth, represent an intermediary lineage in the transition of vertebrates from aquatic life to living on land. This transition must have been accompanied by many innovations in the protein-coding sequences as well as cis-regulatory elements. The coelacanth is popularly known as a ‘living fossil’, and its fleshy fins are believed to be the forerunners of tetrapod limbs. In this talk I will be discussing the analysis of the whole genome sequence of the African coelacanth, and prediction of potential cis-regulatory innovations that occurred during the transition of vertebrates from aquatic habitat to the land environment.

All are welcome. We hope to see many of you at the seminar.

Mathematical Biology Unit/Sinclair Unit