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University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna
  • Evolution of Gene Expression. Gene expression, is an intermediate step of the process translating genetic information into functional proteins. Thus, it is a complex trait regulated by a multitude of genetic factors. Recent advances in genomic technologies have allowed us to identify genetic variants (eQTLs) associated with variation in gene expression. However, the extent to which these variants contribute to the adaptive evolution of gene expression remains unclear. 
  • We investigate the genetic basis of gene expression evolution by comparing the genetic architecture revealed by eQTL mapping with the actual evolutionary trajectories of gene expression. We hypothesize that the adaptive architecture of gene expression is more complex than the simple additive model implied by eQTL mapping, involving factors such as epistasis (gene-gene interactions) and pleiotropy (genes affecting multiple traits). 
  • The importance of LD for polygenic adaptation. Scientists are discovering that many living things adapt through tiny changes in many genes, rather than just one big change (polygenic adaptation). This research line aims to understand how genes work together to help populations adapt. Imagine a group of animals starting a new colony. Some might have gene variants that are more "mixed up" than others. This research line will see if these mixed-up genes help the animals adapt to their new environment faster or in different ways. 
  • The evolutionary consequences of larval crowding. We tackle this question by combining experimental evolution, where we compare the response of populations evolving under high and low larval density. Using a combination of genomic and transcriptomic analyses we determine the genetic basis of adaptation to high larval crowding and the phenotypic implications. The results will provide unprecedented insights into the selective forces operating on flies exposed to high density. 
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