Award details

The role of Hox genes in the ancestral bilaterian

Reference	BBS/B/12067/2
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Dr David Ferrier
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors
Institution	University of St Andrews
Department	Biology
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	65,742
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	01/09/2007
End date	31/12/2008
Duration	16 months

Abstract

I will develop priapulids and polychaete annelids as new model systems for the study of Hox genes, alongside the cephalochordate amphioxus. These three taxa represent ideal candidates for understanding the ancestral condition of each of the three main groups of higher animals (Ecdysozoa, Lophotrochozoa and Deuterostomia), and by extrapolation the ancestor of the Bilateria. The hox genes constitute a key paradigm within Evolutionary Developmental Biology, apparently patterning the development of all animals. Our understanding of these genes has largely been driven by the conventional model organisms of developmental biology (flies, nematodes and vertebrates). These organisms however are derived with regards to the organisation and deployment of their Hox genes. To discover the ancestral condition of Bilateria we need these new, less derived model systems.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Genes & Developmental Biology (GDB)
Research Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

Associated awards:

BBS/B/12067 The role of Hox genes in the ancestral bilaterian

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