Hanin Ahmed, a KAUST Ph.D. graduate in plant science, is now an Ibn-Rushd Postdoctoral Fellow at The Centre for Anthropology and Genomics of Toulouse, France. Her Ph.D. research at KAUST focused on the population genomics and evolutionary history of fonio millet and einkorn wheat. One key finding was the influence of ethnic groups on the genetic diversity of fonio millet, and insights into wheat adaptation during early agriculture from einkorn wheat research published in Nature. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in training researchers who are contributing to advancements in genomics and agriculture, with implications for crop improvement and understanding the impact of social factors on plant genetics.
Janet Kelso from the Max Planck Institute and Sudhir Kumar from Temple University discussed evolutionary biology in a KAUST Facebook Live interview. Kelso's research focuses on interactions between modern humans and Neanderthals, finding similarities in DNA and benefits for environmental adaptation. Kumar's work, highly cited, involves big data analyses in evolutionary biology. Why it matters: The interview highlights KAUST's engagement with international experts in bioinformatics and evolutionary biology, promoting interdisciplinary research and knowledge dissemination.
NYU Professor Michael Purugganan presented at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP 2014) on the origins of crop species. He discussed how genome sequencing is improving our understanding of crop evolution, using date fruits collected in Jeddah as an example. His research on rice showed that two varieties, japonica and indica, share a single common ancestor, contrary to previous assumptions. Why it matters: Understanding crop evolution can help adapt crops to changing environments, which is crucial for food security in regions like the Middle East.
KAUST researchers have published a study in Nature Genetics detailing genomic analysis of wild rice relatives. The study examined nine tetraploid and two diploid wild relatives of rice, finding significant genetic diversity due to transposable elements. This diversity includes genes that confer resilience to heat, drought, and salinity. Why it matters: These findings can help improve rice yields, introduce rice cultivation to currently untenable regions, and protect rice crops against climate change, especially in the Middle East.
A KAUST-led research team is deploying DNA sequencing technology originally used on the International Space Station to analyze DNA samples in extreme environments along the Saudi Red Sea coast. The portable technology enables on-site extraction, concentration, and sequencing of samples from coral reefs and mangrove forests, minimizing DNA deterioration. Preliminary results indicate a more diverse and complex microbiome than previously found. Why it matters: This application of space-based technology to marine conservation in the Red Sea could provide critical insights into how coral reefs and mangroves adapt to climate change, informing preservation and restoration efforts.