EcoTaxOmics: Expeditions to explore biodiversity in the Amazon using genomics and proteomics in molecular taxonomic characterization and biomonitoring of mercurial contamination

• Grant number: 25/01082-8
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Social and Preventive Dentistry
• Principal Investigator: Marília Afonso Rabelo Buzalaf
• Grantee: Marília Afonso Rabelo Buzalaf
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru (FOB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Pedro de Magalhães Padilha
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/09188-0 - Characterization of the proteomic profile of different fish and dragonfly species found in the Tapajós River basin, far from urban centers in the Amazon., BP.PD

Abstract

Molecular studies (genomics, proteomics) have been increasingly integrated into traditional taxonomic methods to provide more robust data, aiding in the processes of species delimitation, characterization, and identification. Moreover, when combined with other tools, such as oxidative biochemical responses, these methods can serve as biomarkers of environmental damage caused by toxicants like mercury. Thus, the objective of this proposal is to generate primary data on biodiversity through genome and proteome mapping of endemic groups of Brazilian Amazon insects from the order Odonata (dragonflies or damselflies) and fishes, thereby better elucidating molecular taxonomic characterization. Additionally, the proposal aims to map potential biomarkers to understand the effects of mercury exposure, which could be used in biomonitoring environmental damage in remote regions of the Amazon. To achieve this, eight communities in the Tapajós region, an area affected by illegal mining, will be investigated. Dragonfly communities will be sampled, as well as fishes that are commonly consumed by local residents and have significant economic impact. Five communities from a reference area in the Acará River will also be studied. After gaining access to the region and conducting macroscopic identification and photographic documentation of the specimens, some will be preserved and sent to collections at UFPA, while others will be immediately frozen for mercury level analysis, oxidative biochemistry, genomics, and proteomics studies. Additional samples will be prepared for biophotonic readings in the field, aiming to validate a diagnostic technique that identifies elevated mercury levels in organisms, whether vertebrates or invertebrates. At the conclusion of these investigations, we expect to contribute to the molecular characterization of species using integrative taxonomy techniques and to facilitate the creation of a biomonitoring panel to guide environmental monitoring efforts. (AU)