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).
Genomic diversity as a basis for biodiversity
Main Objectives of TBG
- 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
It's the mix that makes it: The complex biology of spider venom
09.09.2021
An international team of researchers around Dr. Tim Lüddecke, together with colleagues from Australia, has for the first time summarized their insights into the biology and evolution of spider venom. The article was published in the "Biological Reviews". "Spider venom is critically influenced by life stage, habitat, and especially sex. It is also the interaction of the many components rather than the action of a single toxin that makes spider venom so effective. Through their interactions, the components increase their effectiveness, literally adding up to more than the sum of their parts," says Dr. Tim Lüddecke.
For more information, see the paper or the press release at JLU. (Photo: Wolfgang Dibiasi)
ProLOEWE Science Rally: TBG with video at summer quiz
20.07.2021
This is research from Hessen at its best: TBG and 20 other LOEWE projects funded by the state start a summer quiz for the whole family on 2 August. The ProLOEWE science rally offers new insights into research via short films and a new science puzzle every day. Whether experimenting, painting, crafting or discovering previously unknown things in nature, the puzzles are as diverse as the LOEWE projects – and the prizes. Those who puzzle along and submit their suggested solution for one or more videos by 2 September can win various prizes ranging from experiment boxes to museum tours. The solution will be revealed on 21 September – again, of course, in a short film. All videos and information on participation and dates at proloewe.de. (Photo: Eva Diehl/Senckenberg)
Genome reveals: lichens produce climate-specific substances
20.07.2021
Natural substances produced by organisms are known primarily as agents against cancer and other diseases. But they can do even more, as researchers from the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre and the LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics now show in the journal “Environmental Microbiology.” For the first time, the team was able to show that there is a climate-specific difference in gene groups responsible for the production of natural substances in lichen-forming fungi. The natural substances presumably contribute to the lichens’ ability to adapt to different environmental conditions. Find further information in the scientific study or the press release at Senckenberg. (Photo: Imke Schmitt)
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
Functional Environmental GenomicsPhoto: © Andy Murray chaosofdelight.org
The LOEWE TBG laboratory centre and a bioinformatics unit provide a powerful infrastructure for the direct implementation of projects. Their results are made available to society via technology transfer and public relations.
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