Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University recently developed a new and innovative method for analyzing parts of genes to understand how species traits have evolved over time. Lead by Andreas Pfenning, an Assistant Professor at the School of Computer Science, the Zoonomia Project is committed to sequencing the genome of 240 mammals. The research team was aiming to shed light on significant components of genes and traits that are significant in preserving human health and preserving species diversity.
To further get insight into these enhancer regions in the genome, the scientists developed an algorithm known as the Tissue-Aware Conservation Inference Toolkit (TACIT). These enhancer regions, which are non-coding DNA regions, are essential for controlling gene activity and a major contributor to vertebrate evolution. Without careful examination of these regions, it would be difficult to comprehend the progress of species.
Irene Kaplow, lead author of the paper, described TACIT as an unprecedented opportunity to predict and analyze these regions, as samples from tissue cannot be obtained in some species. In satisfying their purpose, the team used TACIT to determine which genes and traits were associated with larger brains in mammals and also identified an enhancer tied to mammalian behavior that’s unique to the parvalbumin-positive inhibitory interneurons.
This breakthrough could bring new strategies to conservation biology. TACIT possibly allows researchers to draw conclusions on how endangered species have adapted to their environment while avoiding laboratory experiments.
Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The core mission is to support groundbreaking research and path-breaking solutions. Carnegie Mellon emphasizes the development of interdisciplinary solutions to global challenges including health and sustainability. The university often collaborates with leaders in industry to expand research opportunities and develop breakthrough technologies.
Andreas Pfenning is an assistant professor from the School of Computer Science in Carnegie Mellon. He is the lead researcher of the Zoonomia Project, which is determined to sequence the genomes of 240 mammals. His research team developed an algorithm known as the Tissue-Aware Conservation Inference Toolkit (TACIT) in order to analyze enhancer regions in the genome. With the help of TACIT, his work has revealed important information regarding the evolution of species as well as new strategies for protecting biodiversity.
