Organization and evolution of Repetitive DNAs in pest bugs of the genus Edessa

• Grant number: 22/09600-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2023
• End date: December 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Animal Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Diogo Milani
• Grantee: Letícia Menegatti Calegari
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Eukaryotic genomes are complex in their composition, functioning, and evolution. Part of this complexity is due to the large proportion of repetitive DNA, in addition to the occurrence of sex chromosomes. The study of repetitive DNAs, heterochromatin variability and sex chromosomes, due to the accumulation of this class of DNA, is complex and neglected in most genome assembly projects. In addition, it is known that genomic aspects can influence in adaptability to different environments and there are cases of the involvement of sex chromosomes in adaptation to agricultural environments. Genomic studies can be an important tool in understanding the basic biology and evolution of species, being also useful for possible practical applications in benefit, for example, in agriculture. In Brazil, despite being important agricultural producers, little is known about the genomic and chromosomal organization of the species that are pests of our crops. Among these important pests in the country are the Pentatomidae stinky bugs, which include species of the genus Edessa. In the present proposal we aim to understand the genomic architecture, composition and evolution of repetitive DNAs and sex chromosomes in species of the genus Edessa frequently found in agricultural areas. Moreover, the data will contribute to the future assembly of the genomes of the species, which are relevant data that may contribute to aspects applied to agriculture. For this, we will integrate data from classical cytogenetics, molecular cytogenetics and genomics.