Heisenberg Research Group Veterinary Functional Genomics

The Veterinary Functional Genomics Group aims at evaluating the genetic architecture of the genome and its contribution to various biological processes. Our goal is to understand how sequence and structural variations are encoded in the genome, inferring specific patterns and functional consequences. We apply an integrated wet-lab and computational approach to target the complex relationship between genotype and phenotype in mammalian model organisms. This involves comprehensive analyses of variation particularly in the non-coding genome from a developmental and evolutionary point of view using high-throughput sequencing for gene expression, chromatin conformation, histone modification as well as methylation patterns.

Heisenberg Project MEASURE: Multi-omics Evaluation of Animals for body Stature– the genetic architecture for body size

This project funded by the Heisenberg grant is focused on the analysis of regulatory genetic effects primarily involved in size determination. We approach the cutting-edge of functional genomics in the non-coding genome, targeting intergenic variants playing a prominent role in the complex process of growth of a body using a pig model. Initial investigations of whole genome sequencing data aim at identifying genomic regions underlying selection pressures for size in miniature pigs and large pigs as well. Subsequently, by the use of latest OMICs technologies, we target marks of active DNA sequences linked to transcriptional variation within growth plates responsible for longitudinal growth of the long bones. These data will make an important contribution towards deciphering the molecular genetic mechanisms of growth biology in mammals (see also: DFG project description).

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