Genomics Analysis Platform for the Bacillus-Invertebrate Cluster CLUSTER: "Experimental Evolution and Natural Variation of Bacillus-Invertebrate Interactions"

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Host-parasite coevolution is predicted to have complex consequences on the genetic architecture of both interacting species. These consequences may relate to the mechanisms that are of direct relevance to the interaction (e.g., resistance, pathogenicity) or associate with a possible cost of coadaptation (e.g. life-history trade-offs). To date, we lack conclusive information on the genetics that underlie the coevolutionary process. The Genomics Analysis Platform (GAP) aims at a comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic analysis of organisms generated by the research projects of the Bacillus-lnvertebrate Cluster within the priority programme SPP 1399. Our approach is based on state-of-the-art sequencing technology combined with detailed bioinformatic and population genetic data analysis. We focus on organisms from several laboratory controlled evolution experiments, which specifically address the dynamics of reciprocal host-parasite coevolutionary adaptations. These organisms belong to three completely sequenced model taxa, the micro-parasite Bacillus thuringiensis and two of its invertebrate hosts, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and the insect Tribolium castaneum. They are thus ideally accessible to an unbiased whole genome screening approach. Based on this unique material with a known evolutionary history, our approach will yield in-depth insight into the genetic basis and dynamics of host-parasite coevolution.