Evolutionary Genomics
Genome sequencing efforts from the last decade have yielded an avalanche of data from a wide range of organisms. To date, more than 200 genomes from simple, prokaryotes (microorganisms without true nuclei in their cells) have been completely sequenced; another 700 or so are in progress. Meanwhile, sequencing of the genomes of some 500 eukaryotes (higher organisms with true nuclei) is in progress, while nearly three dozen eukaryotes (including the human) have been completely sequenced. Increasingly, evolutionary biologists are comparing and contrasting these data in an effort to understand the tree of life on earth, from its ancient roots to its newest branches. Their collective efforts comprise the burgeoning discipline of evolutionary genomics.
Evolutionary genomics can include using DNA to track organisms' histories and origins, chart population migrations or species extinctions, or deduce the ways in which particular genetic elements have influenced the course of evolution. In Duke' s Center for Evolutionary Genomics, for example, DNA regulatory elements are being studied in the context of natural selection, or how those organisms best adapted to their environments are able to survive and transmit their genes to succeeding generations. If particular regulatory elements are conserved among species, chances are those elements are doing something important for survival. Duke investigators are also bringing evolutionary genomics tools to bear on matters of conservation biology. By examining the genomic endowments of threatened species, in many cases it should be possible to protect and restore biodiversity in challenged areas through selective breeding or other conservation efforts.