University of Otago Research Themes

The University provides formal recognition and support for outstanding research activity, through the designation of Research Centres and Research Themes. The criteria for recognition are that they be research areas:

in which the University enjoys national leadership and international recognition for excellence;
in which the University is likely to remain a major contributor in the next several years;
which might involve active research groups or individuals from more than one Department, School or Division;
which have a demonstrated ability to attract significant additional funding from outside the University.

The Functional Genomics, Gene Expression and Proteomics Research Theme

The era of automated DNA sequencing and genome databases (genomics) has arrived and with it have come new methods for identifying particular genes and their protein products (proteomics).

It is the expression of a set of genes in a particular cell type which defines the function of that cell. The pattern of gene expression can change, for example during development, or as a result of mutation or disease, so that analysis of altered expression profiles provides fundamental information on basic biological processes.

Understanding how such changes come about requires knowledge of factors that control gene expression as well as the functions of the individual protein products. Assigning function to an unknown protein depends on knowing its precise composition and 3-dimensional structure, as well as its interaction partner. Functional proteomics leads in turn to a deeper understanding of physiological processes.

Many technologies are available on campus

Genome to proteome studies rely on some sophisticated technology that can be applied to the study of any tissue or organism. The equipment we have on campus includes a gene microarray facility, laser capture microscope, LC-mass spectrometer and X-ray diffraction equipment. Underpinning the operations is the use of advanced methods in computational biology (bioinformatics).

A number of proven investigators are embracing these new technologies with the common goal of understanding or manipulating gene expression. In addition to using common methodologies, members of this theme share a similar intellectual approach to the analysis of genes and proteins, irrespective of the great diversity of organisms under study.

Further information: Warren Tate
Functional Genomics, Gene Expression and Proteomics Theme

Biochemistry