Cellular identity, systematics and biogeography of apicomplexan parasites Genotype-N and Gemmocystis infecting coral reefs

2019 Fiscal Year Research-status Report

• Project/Area Number: 18K14774
• Research Institution: Hokkaido University
• Principal Investigator: WAKEMAN KEVIN 北海道大学, 高等教育推進機構, 助教 (70760221)
• Project Period (FY): 2018-04-01 – 2021-03-31
• Keywords: Phylogeny / Biodiversity / Marine Biology / Parasitology

Outline of Annual Research Achievements

This year 200 samples were collected from Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Kagoshima. Coral samples were fixed for histological observations as well as DNA extraction. Parasite DNA was extracted from these fixed samples. In situ hybridization as well as laser dissection microscopy was performed on select soft coral samples to confirm the cellular identity. Analysis of the molecular data is currently taking place. Specifically, we are examining the samples to check for two things: species specificity and genetic variability among the parasites, as this relates to different host species and geographic locations across Japan.

Current Status of Research Progress

2: Research has progressed on the whole more than it was originally planned.

Reason

Samples were collected from the locations as planned. Molecular and hisotological work progressed as expected. Small issues with travel and work logistics did happen near the end of the fiscal year related to COVID-19. However, much of the work was already completed. Therefore, it is hopeful that this will have a minimal impact over time.

Strategy for Future Research Activity

One result from this work was the discovery of a method to reliably extract RNA from samples embedded in paraffin wax. In the immediate future, I would like to expand upon this method to be able to isolate the RNA for transcriptomics of the parasites that infect coral. Currently, no research has been done on the topic, primarily because the material is hard to find and isolate. Combing a histological and molecular approach will help to advance this particular field of study.

Causes of Carryover

Due to the COVID-19 virus, some travel and work plans had to be delayed. The budget that is intended for this fiscal year will cover the cost of travel and to process these samples using histology and molecular techniques.