Project description:We have developed an imaging-free framework to localize nucleic acids within a tissue by combining a compressed sensing tissue-sampling strategy based on multi-angle-sectioning and an associated image reconstruction algorithm. Initially, the tissue is cut into consecutive thin slices. Subsequently these are further sliced along an orthogonal plane at predefined orientations resulting in tissue strips that are subject to RNA sequencing. We implemented this framework to transform a single-cell RNA sequencing protocol into an imaging-free spatial transcriptomics technique. The method was validated by profiling the transcriptome of the Murine brain, and used to spatially profile the brain transcriptome of the Australian Central bearded dragon, Pogona vitticeps.
Project description:Hibernation is a complex physiological state often exploited by animals under adverse environmental conditions. It involves large changes in metabolism and cellular function, with many stress responses modulated to tolerate physiological challenges that would otherwise be lethal. This study explores transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of hibernation in a reptile (the central bearded dragon; Pogona vitticeps) throughout the hibernation season. To better understand molecular dynamics of this remarkable process, total RNA and protein was analyzed in brain, heart and skeletal muscle at three time points; late hibernation, two days post-arousal, and two months post-arousal.
Project description:Owing to their exceptional diversity and central role in vertebrate evolution, teeth are key biological systems. We exploited the diversity of bearded dragon dentitions to unreveal new aspects of major dental characters only represented in non-mammalian lineages.
