The molecular genetics of resistance: surviving environmental stress

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The focus of this proposal is the molecular genetic analysis of adaptation to environmental stress in a variety of model organisms including microbes, insects and plants. The stresses to be studied are critically important to problems of this century: temperature changes and potential pollutants. Climate change is predicted to increase the number of freeze-thaw temperature changes, particularly in the north. Thus a study of proteins that bind ice crystals and help protect organisms under these conditions is very timely. Modern biochemical and genetic technologies now make it possible to identify and characterize these proteins and their interactions. Indeed, our discoveries of alternative, gas hydrate substrates for ice-binding proteins has created such interest that it is now opening a new field of enquiry. As well, we are ambitiously proposing to directly examine the contribution of these proteins to an organism's survival by "knocking out" the appropriate genes. A second, new initiative has been prompted by our concern about the recent proliferation of manufactured nanoparticles (NPs) for a host of consumer goods including foods and packaging, and thus the increased probability of NP pollution. Since soil contamination may be most acute at high latitudes, northern soils will be studied initially. In addition, since we have previously developed a novel birth defect model in insects, this system will be used to determine if NP ingestion can have inter-generational consequences. This interdisciplinary program of research has been specifically designed to be accessible and engaging for student trainees, with the experiments of 6 graduates, 2 undergraduates, a technical college trainee, variable numbers of summer students and a research assistant supported every year. Other trainees will also have access to the laboratory either to pique their interest in research or to assist with their own research goals. Such experimental activity will contribute directly to the training of highly qualified young Canadians. In addition, results of the proposed investigation will directly result in an increased understanding of stresses that are particularly important for Canada as a northern country, as well as some of the tools required to begin to address mitigation efforts.