Hi, Reddit! We're scientists at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and
Conservation Biology Institute's Center for Conservation Genomics. We
use genomics to save threatened species -- ask us anything!
Abstract
The Smithsonian’s Center for Conservation
Genomicshttps://nationalzoo.si.edu/center-for-conservation-genomics
(CCG) uses genomics to better understand how we can care for and sustain
genetically diverse animal populations in human care and in the wild. We
use DNA, RNA and more to uncover information about the evolutionary
history of animals and to determine the importance of genetic variation
in their future survival. This information can be used to answer
questions about everything from diseases to animal behavior. We
collaborate with other scientists across the Smithsonian, and with
institutions and agencies around the world. Here are just some of the
things we do with genomics: Use non-invasive DNA collection from feces,
hair, saliva and more to help conservationists find and count endangered
species (link) Identify new species or use ancient DNA to determine when
and if speciation reversal occurs (link) Use DNA from century-old
deceased bats to analyze how white-nose syndrome impacts bats living
today (link) Determine the sex of a baby animals from a small DNA sample
(e.g., a baby porcupine and a quill) Map genomes to decode family trees
of animals like Asian elephants to better understand health concerns and
treatments (link) Determine if an invasive species is actually invasive
(link) We’re doing this AMA as part of the National Human Genome
Research Institute’s National DNA Day Reddit AMA series and are excited
to answer any questions you have about genomics, DNA research or
conservation biology! Ask us anything! Your hosts are: Nancy McInerney,
B.S., Marquette University. I train students, researchers and visiting
scientists in how genomics can be used in conservation and assist the
Zoo with projects like disease detection, sex identification of newborn
animals and paternity testing. I have worked on projects including
sequencing mitogenomes of California sea otters, analyzing eDNA to
locate endangered freshwater turtles, monitoring the impact Chytrid
fungus on amphibians and sequencing the DNA of museum specimens. Jesus
Maldonado, B.S. and M.S., Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania;
Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles. I have been a research
geneticist at SCBI since 1998. My research applies molecular genetics
tools to answer questions about conservation and evolutionary biology in
mammals. I assess the genetic variation within and among populations and
species to document levels of genetic diversity and determine
evolutionary, taxonomic and conservation significance. While my research
has many theoretical aspects, the outcomes of these studies have direct
applications that help threatened and endangered animals. I am active in
education programs and have mentored more than 26 undergraduate students
on research projects dealing with the population genetics of mammals,
birds and reptiles.