KAUST researchers are analyzing the SARS-CoV-2 genome to identify potential targets for treatment and vaccine development. They are using the KAUST Metagenome Analysis Platform (KMAP) and the university's supercomputer to compare and analyze genomic data. The research focuses on identifying key genes for detection and treatment of COVID-19. Why it matters: This research contributes to the global effort to combat the pandemic and highlights KAUST's capabilities in genomic data analysis and computational bioscience.
A KAUST-led team mapped the genome of the orange clownfish using the university's Supercomputing and Bioscience Core Labs. The genome contains 26,597 protein-coding genes and is available via the Nemo Genome DB database. The clownfish genome is one of the most complete fish genomes ever produced, comprising approximately 939 million nucleotides. Why it matters: This genomic map provides a crucial resource for understanding reef fish biology and responses to environmental changes like climate change.
The KAUST Pathogen Genomics Laboratory (PGL), led by Professor Arnab Pain, is using DNA and RNA sequencing to study the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The lab is part of KAUST's Rapid Research Response Team (R3T), supporting Saudi healthcare stakeholders in combating COVID-19. Pain and his Ph.D. student Sharif Hala are partnering with the Saudi-CDC and Ministry of Health hospitals to sequence Saudi SARS-CoV-2 samples. Why it matters: This effort provides crucial data for understanding and monitoring the virus's spread and evolution within the Kingdom, informing public health strategies.
KAUST researchers analyzed the genome of strain RS24, a bacterium isolated from the Red Sea. The bacterium, named Candidatus Micropelagos thuwalensis RS24, belongs to the PS1 clade within Alphaproteobacteria. Genome sequencing revealed that RS24 and IMCC14465, while similar, are distinct species of the PS1 clade, containing genomic islands. Why it matters: This study advances understanding of microbial adaptation to extreme marine environments like the Red Sea, providing insights into the structure-function relationships within microbial communities.
The Russian Immune Diversity Atlas project aims to profile immune cells from people of different ancestries at a multiomics level. The goal is to reconstruct a reference atlas of the healthy immune system and investigate its perturbations in Type II Diabetes (T2D). The project seeks to identify novel mechanisms and genetic/epigenetic markers for early T2D diagnostics, prognosis, and therapy as part of the international Human Cell Atlas. Why it matters: Addressing genetic diversity in biomedical research, particularly in the context of the Human Cell Atlas, is crucial for personalized medicine and ensuring that treatments are effective across diverse populations in the Middle East and globally.
Carlo Maj from the University of Marburg will discuss using polygenic modeling to analyze the genetic architecture of multifactorial traits. He will present how these approaches can be used to predict the genetically driven components of complex phenotypes. The talk highlights the potential of these methods to bridge genomic research and genetic epidemiology using biobank data. Why it matters: Such methods could improve disease risk assessment and advance personalized risk management in the region if applied to local biobanks or datasets.
KAUST, Tufts, and JIHS researchers created pangenome graphs using Saudi and Japanese samples, named JaSaPaGe. These graphs address the underrepresentation of these populations in existing pangenome databases, which are used as references for understanding individual DNA. The population-specific pangenomes are expected to improve variant calling and diagnostic accuracy for genetic disorders in these groups. Why it matters: This work promotes precision medicine and reduces diagnostic gaps for underrepresented populations by providing more relevant genetic baselines.
A KAUST Global Ocean Genome workshop convened international scientists to discuss and evaluate the global ocean genome's progress. Participants assessed the representation of microbial communities and their gene pools, explored the functional capacities of the global ocean microbiome, and examined the distribution of key functional genes. KAUST aims to become a repository of global metagenome data, using big-data systems to explore ocean metagenome knowledge. Why it matters: This initiative highlights KAUST's commitment to advancing microbiome research and fostering international collaboration in marine genomics, positioning the university as a key player in understanding and utilizing ocean biodiversity.