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H2020Individual fellowship2018–2020

SURFInG · StructURal and Functional dynamics of BrassIca napus polyploid Genome

Horizon 2020 — Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Duration
2018-05-19 → 2020-05-18
EU contribution
€185,076
Participants
1
Scheme
MSCA-IF-EF-ST

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Results in brief

StructURal and Functional dynamics of BrassIca napus polyploid Genome

The aim of the SURFInG project was to provide a unique interdisciplinary overview of the effects of interspecific hybridization and whole genome doubling (or polyploidy) in a major crop species Brassica napus (or oilseed rape). This polyploid is an excellent model to unravel the functional and structural consequences of both ancient and recent polyploidization events. I proposed to achieve a novel approach combining different ‘omics’ datasets with thorough phenotyping on original biological material created in the host lab. Methods and outcomes of the proposal allowed pushing further our knowledge on the molecular drivers of polyploid adaptation and success in order to improve current breeding strategies. More specifically, I determined the effects of structural and functional dynamics on B. napus (1) meiotic behavior and fertility, (2) gene expression variation and (3) phenotypic diversity. Using comparative analyses of resynthesized and natural B. napus varieties, I determined for the first time how genome stabilization occurs in oilseed rape and identify genomic regions impacting meiotic behaviour and fertility (WP1). Second, I also investigated the intertwined role of genomic, transcriptomic and epigenetic dynamics in phenotypic plasticity, focusing on agronomically important traits in three independent experimental studies (WP2). Besides successfully achieving the scientific objectives of SURFInG, I also acquired managerial skills and reached my career objectives. Finally, I transferred important conceptual and technical knowledge in terms of gene expression evolution in polyploids and networking opportunities to the host organisation.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union

Project objective

Interspecific hybridization and genome doubling (allopolyploidy) are key factors in plant adaptation and speciation. These intriguing genomic processes cause extensive structural rearrangements and reprogramming of functional regulatory pathways inherited from parental species. Furthermore, hybrid species have shown broad phenotypic diversity. However, mechanisms responsible for genome stabilization after allopolyploidy remain poorly understood. The aim of my project is to provide an interdisciplinary overview of the effects of polyploidy on structural and functional dynamics in a major crop, oilseed rape (Brassica napus). This polyploid species is an excellent system to unravel the long-term and immediate evolutionary effects of ancient and recent polyploid events. In my project, I will use a novel approach that combines (epi)genomics and transcriptomics in phenotypically contrasting polyploids to investigate the role of structural and (epi)genetic regulation in genome stabilization. This work includes, amongst others, the transfer of knowledge to the host lab of cutting-edge molecular and in silico DNA methylation analysis methods. More specifically, I will determine the effects of structural and functional dynamics on B. napus (1) meiotic behavior and fertility, (2) gene expression and (3) glucosinolate content. My findings will open new avenues for using standing variation to modify and ultimately enhance agronomic traits. I have become a recognized evolutionary biologist working at the interface of ecology, genomics and molecular biology. From the expertise of the host lab and availability of technical platforms in situ, I will not only get acquainted with cytogenetics and metabolomics, but will increase my expertise in comparative genomics and in high throughput genotyping analyses. I will also extend my network towards the private sector and be integrated into a well-established European community, positioning me on track to succeed academically in France.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

  • INSTITUT NATIONAL DE RECHERCHE POUR L'AGRICULTURE, L'ALIMENTATION ET L'ENVIRONNEMENT · ParisCoordinatorFrance

Links

Data: CORDIS, © European Union