Title：Hox cluster evolution and Hox cluster microRNAs

　　Speaker：Prof. John H. Postlethwait,

　　Professor of Biology, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, USA

　　Dr. John Postlethwait is Professor of Biology at the University of Oregon’s Institute of Neuroscience. He is a member of the American Academy of Sciences, recipient of the Discovery Award of the Medical Research Foundation, and recently completed a Humboldt Research Award in Würzburg, Germany.

　　Hox cluster evolution and Hox cluster microRNAs.

　　Hox cluster genes control developmental fates along morphological axes in animal embryos. How have Hox clusters and the functions of Hox cluster genes evolved after WGD? We will explore the evolution of Hox clusters in teleost fish and will focus on the functions of a micro RNA that is conserved in Hox clusters among vertebrates. Surprisingly, this Hox-cluster microRNA functions in concert with Hox cluster protein coding genes to regulate branchial arch, appendage, and vertebral column development.

　　Time：9:00am, 4 Nov. 2009 (Wed.)

　　Place：Lecture Hall  1-B-210, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology Chinese Academy of Sciences