Final Report Summary - EPIGENOME (Understanding epigenetic mechanisms of complex genome editing in eukaryotes.)
The project led to a significant improvement of our understanding of RNA-guided genome editing in single-celled eukaryotes called ciliates. Ciliates reproduce sexually and use an extensive and very complex system of eliminating all the unnecessary DNA from their somatic genome, keeping only the DNA segments that are essential for their survival. This genome editing process is guided by RNA molecules produced by the parental cells that are sent to the genome of the progeny to guide DNA remodeling. One of the most important results was the discovery of a novel small RNA pathway that is employed to target DNA elimination during development of Paramecium. This allowed us to build a comprehensive model according to which the parental cells program a whole-genome-scale DNA rearrangement in their progeny by providing them with a selected population of small RNAs, which in turn trigger an RNA amplification chain reaction in the progeny genome, leading ultimately to complete and precise remodeling of the entire genome of the progeny. This discovery has an important impact in the field and the published work is very well cited.
The project also revealed that functional diversification of Dicer proteins and small RNAs allow multiple small RNA pathways coexist at the same time and perform unique functions and at the same time complement each other to some extent.
Another achievement was the identification of novel proteins that are involved at different stages of genome development, allowing us to build a more complete model.
The sequencing and assembly of Stylonychia lemnae macronuclear genome has a broad impact within ciliate community allowing people to use this organism in molecular biology/genomics research.
Finally, the project led to the understanding of genetic and epigenetic properties of parts genome that are destined for elimination. The research clarifies the evolutionary origin of the genome DNA elimination process.
The project also revealed that functional diversification of Dicer proteins and small RNAs allow multiple small RNA pathways coexist at the same time and perform unique functions and at the same time complement each other to some extent.
Another achievement was the identification of novel proteins that are involved at different stages of genome development, allowing us to build a more complete model.
The sequencing and assembly of Stylonychia lemnae macronuclear genome has a broad impact within ciliate community allowing people to use this organism in molecular biology/genomics research.
Finally, the project led to the understanding of genetic and epigenetic properties of parts genome that are destined for elimination. The research clarifies the evolutionary origin of the genome DNA elimination process.