Laboratory for Biodiversity and the Functional Genomics of the World Ocean

We have refined phylogeny of animals and developed methods of quantitative assessment of transcription activity of genome in cells of tested species. More than 1.5 million transcriptomes of single neurons were obtained in representatives of 16 phyla of animals.

Our researchers have shown that in the majority of researched species almost all neurons have unique profile of non-coding RNA and secretory molecules which creates the basis for development of natural evolutionary classification of neurons. We have found vast molecular diversity of «simple» nervous systems.

We have confirmed that formation of neuronal phenotypes from various types of ancestor secretory cells could occur at least twice or three times during the evolution of animals. Muscle cells could evolve independently.

Reconstruction of evolution of centralization of the nervous system allows to suggest that formation a complex brain went independently at least 9–12 times from the common ancestor Bilateria and Cnidaria with diffuse nervous system.

Education and career development:

Based on the Science education centre "Genomics and Bioinformatics" some programs of professional training and popularization of the scientific knowledge in the field of marine biology and functional genomics are implemented. Practical courses are held using modern laboratory equipment. Several students from Sevastopol State University have realized magisters works based on the laboratory as well three post-graduate students are carrying out research nowadays. Lectures and practical courses conducted in the framework of the training programs for SevSU Master's degree programs in "biophysics".

Collaborations:

Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Department of the Russian Academy of Science (Russia): Joint research, internships for laboratory staff, scientific conferences

Sevastopol State University (Russia): Training of personnel in the field of bioinformatics analysis, the use of the instrumental base of the Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biophysics for experimental molecular work.

Nikitsky Botanical Garden (Russia): coordinating development plans for cutting-edge research directions