LOEWE Centre for
Translational Biodiversity Genomics
Understanding the genomic basis of biodiversity
Biodiversity is the result of 3.5 billion years of evolution and one of the most complex phenomena on earth. The LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics focusses on the genetic basis of biological diversity to make it accessible for basic and applied research. We sequence and study genomic variation across the tree of life to comprehend the origin and functional adaptations of diversity from genes to ecosystems (Comparative Genomics). The data addresses societal knowledge demands in applied fields, such as the genomic basis of biologically active substances (Natural Products Genomics), and the sustainable use and management of biological resources (Genomic Biomonitoring; Functional Environmental Genomics).
Main Objectives of TBG
Genomic diversity as a basis for biodiversity
- establish a new and taxonomically broad genome collection, the Senckenberg Biodiversity Genome Collection (SBGC) as an innovative digital and specimen-based museum collection
- compare genomic diversity across the tree of life to better understand the origin and functions of all levels of biological diversity (from genes to ecosystems)
- make genomic resources accessible for applied research, e.g. for a sustainable bioeconomy or natural resources management.
The joint-venture LOEWE-TBG has been initiated by the Senckenberg Nature Research Society, the Goethe University Frankfurt, the Justus Liebig University Gießen and the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME and is initially funded by the LOEWE programme of the State of Hesse, Germany.
News
Paper published on European research network on animal poisons
13.04.2021
An article has recently been published describing the COST Action European Venom Network (EUVEN CA19144), synergy and future perspectives of modern venomics. TBG researcher Dr. Björn M. von Reumont is co-author of the study and member of the German management committee. The network unites European animal venom researchers aiming at developing protocols and methods, establishing technological procedures and animal models as well as studying previously unknown venomous animal species and their venoms. As the application of the new findings for biomedical, diagnostic and agrochemical purposes is an important goal, collaboration with companies is also planned. Read the article in "GigaScience" and the press release at Justus Liebig University Giessen. (Photo: B. M. von Reumont)
Lecture by Michael Hiller: Is there really evolution?
08.04.2021
The diversity of species has developed through evolution over the course of many millions of years. Through processes such as variation and selection, certain characteristics have emerged and others have disappeared – says the doctrine. But is this actually true? Or were humans and other species created by an intelligent being, as some believe? In his lecture " Hat Evolution wirklich stattgefunden? Belege aus der Paläontologie, Entwicklungsbiologie und Genom-Forschung" (in German), Prof. Dr. Michael Hiller from the LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics will talk about valid arguments as well as visual and genetic similarities between species.
The lecture will take place digitally at 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday, April 14. A livestream can be found at www.senckenberg.de/live. The event is part of the Senckenberg lecture series " Bauplan der Natur – Wie Genomik unseren Blick auf die biologische Vielfalt revolutioniert". More info at https://senckenberg.de/bauplandernatur
Biodiversity Genomics Symposium – agenda online, registration open
29.03.2021
The Agenda for Senckenberg Biodiversity Genomics Symposium (21st of April 2021) is online including schedule, speakers and discussion slots. Among speakers are TBG scientists Prof. Dr. Miklos Bálint and Prof. Dr. Imke Schmitt. Registration for the one-day event is free, but required and still possible. The Symposium is co-organised by the LOEWE-TBG, the Senckenberg Research Institute and PacBio. Scientists from Europe and beyond will share their experiences using highly accurate long-read sequencing, known as HiFi sequencing, to generate reference-quality genomes of taxonomically diverse organisms. The event will feature a mix of scientific presentations, lightning talks, a poster session and breaks with opportunities to network with your peers. Read more and register here.
Research at the centre is divided into four project areas and numerous individual and joint projects:
Comparative GenomicsPhoto: Myotis myotis © Oliver Farcy
Natural Products GenomicsPhoto: Dr. Carsten Kegler
Genomic BiomonitoringPhoto: Axel Gomille
