Our Keynote Speakers
dr. Elena Bužan
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Genomic approaches in wildlife management and conservation
Genetics has been a crucial element in the wildlife management and conservation for the past fifty years. Genetic and genomic approaches that are commonly used include single locus analysis, DNA metabarcoding, reduced representation DNA techniques, transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq), and whole-genome (re)sequencing. They combine the power of modern genomics techniques with the goals of wildlife management and conservation and give us useful information such as the importance of genetic diversity for species adaptation, genetic requirements for sustainable population management, the effects of habitat change on species extinction, the genetic details of taxonomic differentiation, animal diet preferences, etc.
In my talk, I will explore latest advances in the field of genomics and discuss how they can support wildlife conservation and management. I will also discuss the challenges that this field faces, such as data accessibility, ethical considerations, and the integration of genomics with other conservation disciplines. As case examples, my presentation will focus on genomics of Northern chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) and wild cat (Felix silvestris) as well as on diet analysis of wild boar (Sus scrofa), grey wolf (Canis lupus) and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). Moreover, considering differences in their population densities, spatial behaviour, dietary characteristics, and life-history strategies, we tried to assess the effects of habitat fragmentation and hybridisation on populations genetic structure and dietary profile determined by metabarcoding. We used genomics information to gain better insight into the influence of external and intrinsic factors on population dynamics and structure of these species, which would allow us to conduct sustainable, science-based population management.
Genomic data is a strong tool for resolving numerous management problems, and it can be less expensive than intense field work. Given the rapid advancements in computing and sequencing technology, we may see a not-too-distant future in which simpler methods, analysis, and interpretation will make genomic tools available to managers.
dr. Tina Tinkara Peternelj
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The human gut-brain connection: roles of microbiome in mood and behavior
The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) is a complex system integrating neural, hormonal and immunological signaling pathways between the gut and the brain, where microbiota and its metabolites play crucial roles. It is a dynamic bidirectional network where the brain controls gastrointestinal functions and the gut influences central nervous system homeostasis.
Trillions of microbial cells (primarily bacteria, but also fungi, macrophages, viruses, archaea), its genes and metabolites form human microbiome, representing the invisible world around and within us. The microbiome is concentrated in the gut but demonstrates systemic effects, taking part in host food digestion and metabolism, gut mucosal barrier, immune system education and regulation, stress response, integrity of blood-brain barrier and brain neuroplasticity. We now know that gut microbiome can affect our cognition, mood, personality, sleep and eating patterns. Dysbiotic microbiota has been associated with many chronic diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders. Importantly, neuroinflammation has been shown as a pathological hallmark of many diseases and crosstalk between immune function, our emotional lives and behavioral tendencies has been suggested.
A number of approaches have been used to probe the MGBA, such as dietary interventions, probiotic agents, microbiome transplants, psychotherapeutic strategies and indeed long-term lifestyle changes. Empirical data is coming mainly from animal studies, however, several interventions have demonstrated promising results. Therefore, futher and well-designed human studies are warranted to identify research gaps and provide deeper insights into our relationship with the microbes, at individual, community and global levels.
Finally, the gut-brain connection's potential to help human health has emerged as a hot topic in clinical studies, yet scientists are only scratching the surface. Nevertheless, each individual can access several strategies to support healthy microbiome and optimize gut-brain connection leading to overall wellness.