1 Fugu Genomics, HGMP Resource Centre, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SB. UK. 2 Division of Musculo-Skeletal Medicine, Institute of Endocrinology, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX. UK. 3 CCMAR, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-810 Faro, Portugal.
The initial aim of the Fugu project at the HGMP was to promote the use of Fugu as a model genome by developing a short-range linkage map of the Fugu genome using cosmid sequence scanning. This project has been successfully completed and the next stage is to concentrate on more defined objectives, specifically the in-depth analysis of syntenic human chromosomal regions (11p, 20q and MHC) via sequence scanning and full-depth sequencing approaches. The aim is to examine gene structure and order compared to human and identify conserved motifs and potential non-coding regulatory elements. Examples will be presented from each of these regions, which demonstrate the utility of using Fugu as a model genome to aid in the understanding of human genomic data. The Fugu MHC will be presented as a particular example as to how studies of the region in other non-mammalian vertebrates can provide clues as to the primordial MHC and aid in our understanding of MHC evolution and the development of such a complex region in mammals. We also have an interest in using comparative genomics within fish species, specifically the use of Fugu to isolate calcium regulation genes in the Sea Bream (Sparus aurata). This has enabled us to isolate clones to be used in cDNA analysis and expression studies in Sea Bream with our collaborators. The results also have important implications for the understanding of gene evolution and function, particularly with regard to the adaptation to a tetrapod lifestyle and environment of intermittent calcium regulation.
Plant & Animal Genome VIII Conference Plant & Animal Genome VIII Conference