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Hyperactive endogenous retroviruses and their impact on the koala genome (2024–2027)

Abstract:
Koala populations are in steep decline with the ubiquitous koala retrovirus (KoRV) strongly linked with disease. KoRV and other less studied endogenous retrovirus (ERVs) are extremely active within the genome of koalas to a level never observed in any other vertebrate genome. This study will map ERV integration sites within koalas from across their geographic range country and use long-read genomics approaches to understand the link between KoRV and other ERVs, the impact on koala caused by dramatic genomic rewiring, and the mechanisms of genomic immunity which supress ERV activity and mitigate disease. Findings will provide insights into the ongoing arms race between virus and host and inform conservation of an iconic species.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Projects
Researchers:

  • Professor Keith Chappell

    Professorial Research Fellow
    School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
    Faculty of Science
    Professor
    Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology

  • Dr Jake O'Donnell

    Research Fellow
    School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
    Faculty of Science
Funded by:
Australian Research Council