2024年1月4日 Zhen Li：From Gene Loss to Rediploidization: The Role of Polyploidization in Plant Genomic Diversity andAdaptation

讲座题目: From Gene Loss to Rediploidization: The Role of Polyploidization in Plant Genomic Diversity andAdaptation

主 讲 人：Zhen Li

主 持 人：李勤副教授

开始时间：1月4日 14：00

讲座地址：资环楼354室

报告摘要：Polyploidization, known as whole-genome duplication (WGD), is animportant evolutionary process in plants. While the majority offlowering plants display remnants of ancient polyploidization,influencing evolutionary innovations and species adaptability, the focushas traditionally been on gene duplication. Recent genomic studies,however, have gradually unveiled the crucial role of gene loss in plantevolution. Rediploidization, a process where polyploid genomes evolvetowards a diploid-like state, critically shapes plant genome evolution.This phase is characterized by significant gene loss, a key aspect ofgenomic reorganization. Understanding the dynamics ofrediploidization requires a thorough exploration of the mechanismsbehind this gene loss. Among these mechanisms, pseudogenization isparticularly notable. By focusing on the role of pseudogenization in thecontext of gene loss during rediploidization, we aim to decipher itscontribution and significance to provide deeper insights into howdifferent mechanisms, including pseudogenization, collectivelyinfluence the genomic landscape post-WGD. Furthermore, accuratelycontextualizing gene loss within rediploidization processes requiresprecise identification of WGD events, a challenge compounded by thecomplexity of plant genomic data and the need for versatile analyticaltools. To address these challenges, we have developed a comprehensivemethodology and user-friendly tool for polyploidy inference. This toolnot only facilitates more accurate WGD analysis but also broadens thescope of research in plant genome evolution, emphasizing the dynamicinterplay of gene loss, duplication, and rediploidization in shaping thediversity and adaptation of plant species.

报告人简介：Dr. Zhen Li is an Assistant Professor at Ghent University. He honed hisexpertise during his PhD and postdoctoral work with Prof. Yves Van dePeer. Dr. Li's research employs comparative genomics andphylogenomics to unravel the complexities of plant genome evolution,particularly in the context of ancient polyploidizations and their role inplant adaptation and diversification.