YOUNG SCIENTISTNETWORKING MEETING2013: AN EMBO-INDIABIOSCIENCE INITIATIVE

NOV2013

The Young Scientist Networking Meeting, organized by EMBO and IndiaBioScience brings together young group leaders from India and Europe, students and post doctoral scholars to cata-lyze collaborative research and advance careers.

Organising CommitteeVivek Malhotra CRG, SpainGerlind Wallon EMBOSwetha Suresh IndiaBioScienceNandini Rajamani Robin IndiaBioScience

AdvisorsK. VijayraghavanSatyajit Mayor

Thanks to Akash GulyaniK. M. BasavarajT. M. SahadevanNidhi SrivatsavaRachel CoultardNarendra DheleDebjit DuttaKetan ThoratDhruv RainaVishal MenonMohammed Bin Abu BakerVaishnavi AnanthanrayananNCBS & inStem sta!

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EMBOEuropean and Indian Young Investigators in science meet at Bangalore

IndiaBioScienceIntroduction

Schedule7th - 10th November, 2013

Abstracts

EMBOIntroduction

Sponsors & Organizers Showcase

AbstractsIndex

Poster Submissionsin alphabetical order

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A handful of highly talented young investigators in Europe are invited to join the EMBO Young Investigator Program every year. These investigators, entitled “EMBO YIP”, have established an active research program and published science of exceptional quality within the first three years of their independence. The first few years are absolutely crucial for their long-term success and therefore the future of science and technology."

The key goals of this meeting are to help these investigators seek out collaborations, plan recruitment of PhD’s and postdocs, exchange technologies and personnel. It is also important for the Indian scientists to learn how their European counterparts have risen to the top in such a short period, how they manage their labs, and deal with the financial and administrative issues of their respective institutes. The directors of some of the Indian institutes are invited to help them appreciate the relative success of their younger colleagues, the significance of nurturing, and providing resources that could potentially change the scientific landscape of India. A small group of Indian PhD students are also invited to this meeting to help them understand the significance of research in science, and how independent young investigators meet their goals in highly competitive areas of science and technology. The seminars by the young investigators will showcase the level of their achievements in their respective fields. There will be ample time for informal discussions, which is the main goal of this meeting, and we expect this to be the beginning of e!ective long-term collaborations between the Indian and the European young investigators.

EUROPEAN AND INDIAN YOUNG INVESTIGATORS IN SCIENCE MEET AT BANGALORE India has seen a tremendous growth in science and many young scientists who completed their PhD’s and postdocs abroad are now back and pursuing their research goals at Indian univer-sities and institutes. The aim of this meeting is to promote interactions of these investigators with their highly talented counterparts in Europe.

Vivek MalhotraCRG, Spain tor, EMBO

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The EMBO Young Investigator Programme, launched in 2000 was the first initiative in Europe that recognized the specific needs of junior group leaders setting up their first indepen-dent laboratories. EMBO selects the best of this group and creates a network for intellectual exchange, cross-fertilization of ideas between di!erent life science disciplines, and mutual support and peer mentoring. Since its inception more then 300 of the best young group leaders in Europe have been selected. The distinction of being an EMBO Young Investigator is widely recognized as a mark of excellence.

EMBO Young Investigators receive an annual award. Support for networking, such as meetings of special interest focus groups, research exchange visits and joint group meetings, support for the members of their groups in the form of an annual PhD course and grants for conference attendance. EMBO has directly addressed the lack of training in manage- ment for scientists by establishing the EMBO Laboratory Management Courses – now a widely sought-after training instrument for the whole research community and free of charge for EMBO Young Investigators.

EMBO YIP also supports its members in activities outside Europe, programme members have organized courses for PhD students in Palestine, Cabo Verde and Uganda with support from EMBO.

This meeting is a further step towards widening the oppor- tunities for EMBO Young Investigators and their counterparts outside Europe. Indian researchers are significantly contribu- ting to science in the US and Europe, and through substantial investments in science in India an increasing number of excellent institutes provide opportunities for collaborations and exchange. By bringing together some of the best young group leaders from India and Europe we hope to be able to contribute to further scientific exchange and fruitful collaborations.

EMBO is an organization that was founded by scientists for scientists with the mission to identify and support the best researchers in Europe and promote scientific exchange.Starting from a core group of 144 molecular biologists in 1964 EMBO today has close to 1600 elected members in Europe and around the world, covering all areas of the life sciences. The core activities of EMBO, Fellowships, Courses and Workshops, Young Investigators and Science Policy are supported by an intergovern-mental organization of 27 Member States, the EMBC.

Gerlind WallonDeputy Director, EMBO

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IndiaBioscience, a non-profit organisation, fills a unique niche in the ecosystem of the life sciences in India, being a catalyst to promote changes that a!ect the culture and practice of the field, through engagement with academia, government and industry at various levels. IndiaBioscience aims to increase the visibility of science in society, by being a hub for policy discussions, science communication, and as an aggregator of information.

IndiaBioscience has been nurtured within the campus of the National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore, but our mandate is broad-based in serving the life science profession across India. For the past two and a half years, we have been an active player in assessing problems and delivering solutions to academia. We have also established a global network to gain access to best practices and tailor them for an Indian milieu.

Some of our activities over the past few years have been establishing a Mentorship and recruitment program for exceptional faculty in tier 1 institutions through Young Investigator Meetings, provision of career resources for students and young professionals and facilitation of international research collaborations though specific programs. We have also begun preliminary e!orts towards addressing undergraduate science education in India, and have conducted a meeting that resulted in a program and white paper that addressed administrative, research and recruitment issues in universities.

In the future, IndiaBioScience plans to engage with educational institutions to recharge research and teaching, become a forum for policy related to life-sciences, create a unified online platform for science communication and launch a database to network industry and academia.

IndiaBioScience Life sciences and allied sectors are gaining more importance in India than ever before,whether it be industry, biomedical and basic research or the understanding of our spectacular biodiversity. We envision India as a nucleus for research in frontier areas in the near future; but for this to happen it is imperative to foster a world-class community of scientists, administrators and policy makers. The current scenario of bureaucracy, ine#ciencies and poor networking across actors results in wastage of talent and e!ort.

Nandini Rajamani Robin & Swetha Suresh IndiaBioScience

About EMBO

EMBO is an organization of almost

1600 leading researchers that promotes

excellence in the life sciences. The major

goals of the organization are to support

talented researchers at all stages of their

careers, stimulate the exchange of scientific

information, and help build a European

research environment where scientists can

achieve their best work.

EMBO helps young scientists to advance

their research, promote their international

reputations and ensure their mobility.

Courses, workshops, conferences and

scientific journals disseminate the latest

research and offer training in techniques to

maintain high standards of excellence in

research practice. EMBO helps to shape

science and research policy by seeking

input and feedback from our community

and by following closely the trends in

science in Europe.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

global@embo.org

www.embo.org

EMBO activities open to scientists based in India

› EMBO Fellowships – applications are invited for: short-term fellowships (applications open all year around) and long-term fellowships (deadlines twice yearly: 15 February and 15 August)

› Participation in EMBO Workshop: Upstream and downstream of Hox genes, 14–17 December 2014 in Hyderabad

› Participation in EMBO Laboratory Management Courses – Management training for postdocs and group leaders

› Funding for EMBO Courses & Workshops to be held in India – applications are invited jointly from scientists based in India and EMBC member states.Deadlines twice yearly: 1 March and 1 August

› Support for keynote lectures given by EMBO Members at conferences held in India – application deadlines: 1 March, 1 June, 1 September and 1 December

› Support for lectures given by EMBO Young Investigators at conferences held in India – applications open all year around

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researchers supportedsince 2010.

EMBO Global Activities

The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology in 1986 gave a new impetus to the development of the field of modern biology and biotechnology in India. In more than a decade of its existence, the department has promoted and accelerated the pace of development of biotechnology in the country. Through several R&D projects, demonstrations and creation of infrastructural facilities a clear visible impact of this field has been seen. The department has made significant achievements in the growth and application of biotechnology in the broad areas of agriculture, health care, animal sciences, environment, and industry.

A unique feature of the department has been the involvement of the scientific community of the country through a number of technical task forces, advisory committees and individual experts in identification, formulation, implementation and monitoring of various programmes and activities.

The Department of BioTechnology also has numerous awards and fellowships for scientists and organizations. Details about our activities and awards can be found on our website: www.dbtindia.nic.in

The Company of Biologists is a UK based charity and not-for-profit publisher run by biologists for biologists. The Company aims to promote research and study across all branches of biology through the publication of its five journals.

In addition to publishing, The Company makes an important contribution to the scientific community, providing grants, travelling fellowships and sponsorship to noteworthy scientists, meetings, societies and collaborative projects around the world. The Company also runs a series of transdisciplinary workshops.

For subscriptions and consortia sales email sales@biologists.com

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DevelopmentAdvances in developmental biology and stem cells dev.biologists.org

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Disease Models & Mechanisms Basic research with translational impact dmm.biologists.org

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For more information please visit our website biologists.com

EMBO-IndiaBioscience Young Scientist Networking Meeting

Upinder Bhalla, Dean NCBSGerlind Wallon

Thomas LembergerThomas Lemberger

Group leaders from Europe and India

Speaker SpeakerRegistration WelcomeJob applications: cv and cover lettersPosterLunchAfter a paper is submitted: the editor’s black boxReviewing a manuscript: how to critically assess a paper and what you can learn for your own paperCo!ee break Panel discussion: careers in science? To post doc or not? Discussions with young investigators PosterDinner, sketches in science (moevenpick)

Event Event8:30 9:00 9:30 11:00 12:301:302:30

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EMBO-IndiaBioscience Young Scientist Networking Meeting

Venue: NCBS, Bengaluru Venue: Moevenpick, Bengaluru

Day 1 7.11.13

Day 2 8.11.13

Jitu Mayor, Director NCBSGerlind Wallon, Swetha SureshThomas RichardsSantiago ElenaBruno Reversade

Krushnamegh Kunte

Axel Brockmann

Benjamin Prud’homme

Frank SchnorrerMaria Dolores BermudoAlexander Stark

Soumen Basak

MS Madhusudhan

Daniel WilsonAkash GulyaniRavi ManjithaiyaSatyajit Mayor, Satyajit Rath, LS Shashidhara, Shahid Jameel

WelcomeIntroduction to EMBO andIBSRadical moments in gene evolutionEvolutionary and systems biology of RNA viruses

Co!ee breakMolecular genetics and evolution of wing patterns in the papilio polytes butterflyHoneybee dance language communication – A neurobiological prospectiveEvolution of wing pigmentation patterns in Drosophila speciesLunchMaking of insect flight muscle – from genes to forcesMechanisms regulating cell migrationTranscriptional regulatory information is encoded in enhancers, discrete regions within the non-coding part of the genomeCrosstalk control of inflammatory immune responseCo!ee breakUsing biomolcular 3d comparisons for predicting and designing structures and interactionThrowing a spanner in the ribosomal worksImaging protein activity in living cells: Src kinases at the leading edgeSmall molecules shed light on autophagy regulationScience in India: Opportunities and challengesDinner

Eric So

Soumen Chakraborty

Prasenjit Guchhait

Katja Straesser

K VijayRaghavan, Gerlind Wallon, Gurjot Sachdeva, Sunil Kumar, Manjula Mundakana, Shahid Jameel, Meenakshi Munshi, Aurelie Pachko!

Sophie Jarriault

Shravanti RampalliRam Yadav

Arp Schnittger

Speaker SpeakerTargeting the epigenetic machinery and self- renewal pathway in leukemic stem cellsBCR-ABL mediated repression of mir-223 results in activation of MEF2C and PTBP2 in chronic myeloid leukemiaIntravascular hemolysis increases severity of thrombosis: New insights into an old problemCoupling transcription to mRNP formation and exportCo!ee breakIndo-EU collaborations and funding options - Panel discussionInteractions with funding body representatives

LunchFundamental principles underlying natural direct reprogrammingEZH2 favors pluripotent reprogrammingGene regulatory networks underlying cell type specification in shoot apical meristemControl of cell proliferation and growth in plantsCo!ee breakSocial / Trip / Dinner (TBC)

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EMBO-IndiaBioscience Young Scientist Networking Meeting

EMBO-IndiaBioscience Young Scientist Networking Meeting

Venue: Moevenpick, Bengaluru Venue: Moevenpick, Bengaluru

Day 3 9.11.13

Day 4 10.11.13

Eva Ho!mannPetr SvobodaSubba Rao Gangi Setty

Ullas Kolthur-Seetharam

Carsten Janke

Srinivasa-Gopalan Sampathkumar

Mahak Sharma

Srikanth CV

Gerlind Wallon

Understanding the origins of human aneuploidyThe real RNAi – A tale of naughty miceARL4A and RABIP4’ act together to regulate the endosomal transport to melanosomes through KIF3A Metabolic regulatory network: An interplay between genetic factors and dietary inputsCo!ee breakMolecular mechanisms and biological functions of microtubule diversityDisrupting the sugar-coat: Inhibition of mucin-type O-glycosylation of cell surface glycoproteins by analogues of N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc) Understanding the mechanisms regulating vesicular tra#cking to lysosomesSalmonella Typhimurium perturbs host Sumo- Machinery for invasion and inflammationClosing remarksLunch

Event Event

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Thomas Richards Radical moments in gene evolutionSantiago Elena Evolutionary and Systems biology of RNA viruses Bruno Reversade Beyond Next Generation SequencingKrushnamegh Kunte Molecular genetics and evolution of wing patterns in the Papilio polytes butterflyAxel Brockmann Honeybee dance language communication - a neurobiological perspectiveBenjamin Prud’homme Evolution of wing pigmentation patterns in Drosophila species Frank Schnorrer Making on Insect flight muscle – from genes to higher forcesMaría Dolores Martín-Bermudo Mechanisms regulating cell migration Alexander Stark Regulatory genomics - decoding transcriptionalRegulatory sequencesSoumen Basak Crosstalk control of inflammatory immune responseMS Madhusudhan Reconstitution of membrane fission reactions Daniel Wilson Throwing a spanner in the ribosomal worksAkash Gulyani Imaging protein activity in living cells: Src kinases at the leading edge Ravi Manjithaya Small molecules shed light on autophagy regulationChi Wai Eric So Targeting the epigenetic machinery and self-renewal pathway in leukemic stem cells Soumen Chakraborty BCR-ABL mediated repression of MIR-223 results in the activation of MEF2C and PTB2C in chronic myeloid leukemiaPrasenjit Guchhait Prasen Intravascular hemolysis increases severity of thrombosis: new insights into an old problem

Katja Sträßer Coupling transcription to mRNP formation and export Sophie Jarriault Fundamental principles underlying natural direct reprogrammingShravanti Rampalli EZH2 favours pluripotent reprogrammingRam Yadav Gene regulatory networks underlying cell type specification in shoot apical meristemArp Schnittger Control of cell proliferation and growth in plantsEva Hoffmann Understanding the origins of human aneuploidy Petr Svoboda The real RNAi- a tale of naughty miceSubba Rao Gangi Setty ARL4A and RABIP4’ act together to regulate the endosomal transport to melanosomes through KIF3AUllas Kolthur Metabolic regulatory network: an interplay between genetic factors and dietary inputs Carsten Janke Molecular mechanisms and biological functions of microtubule diversitySrinivasa-Gopalan Sampathkumar Disrupting the sugar-coat: Inhibition of mucin-type O-glycosylation of cell surface glycoproteins by analogues of N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc) Mahak Sharma Understanding the mechanisms regulating vesicular tra#cking to lysosomesChittur Srikanth Salmonella Typhimurium perturbs host sumo- machinery for invasion and inflammation

83 Poster Presenters In alphabetical order

22Thomas Richards

Radical moments in gene evolutionPhylogenomics is a powerful tool, allowing researchers to identify the evolution of cellular systems. Darwin first defined the idea of decent with modification whereby gene evolution is driven by gradual changeswhich are subject to natural selection. However, it has become clear that genes undergo frequent and radical changes such as gene duplication, fusion and horizon-tal gene transfer (HGT). In this talk I will focus on two stories: 1) How HGT has shaped the evolution of plant pathogenesis and 2) How gene fusion has underpinned the evolution visual perception in the Fungi

Jones MDM, Forn I, Gadelha C, Egan MJ, Bass D, Massana R & Richards TA. 2011. Discovery of novel intermediate forms redefines the fungal tree of life. Nature 474, 200–203 (09 June 2011) doi:10.1038/na-ture09984.

Horizontal gene transfer facilitated the evolution of plant parasiticmechanisms in the oomycetes. Richards TA, Soanesa DM, Jones MDM, Vasievac O, Leonard G, Paszkiewicza K, Foster PG, Hall N & Talbot NJ. 2011. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 108(37), 15258-15263 doi:10.1073/pnas.1105100108.

Leonard G, & Richards TA. 2012. Genome-scale comparative analysis of gene fusions, gene fissions, and the fungal tree of life. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 109(52), 21402-21407.

The primary focus of my research is to determine the evolu-tionary relationships of the eukaryotes and the cellular and genomic innovations associated with the emergence and diversification of the eukaryoticcell. My research uses: 1) Comparative genomics and phylogenetics to understand the evolution of the eukaryotes. 2) Environmental DNA experiments to fill gaps in our current understanding of eukaryotic diversity and the eukaryotic phylogeny. We are currently focusing on diversification of the fungal traits, the role of horizontal gene transfer and developing model systems for understanding endosymbiosis in the eukaryotes.

genomics / phylogeny / microbe / protist / fungi

College of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Exeter, United Kingdom

AbstractThomas Richards

t.a.richards@exeter.ac.ukhttps://biosciences.exeter.ac.uk/sta!/index.php?web_id=tom_richards

24Santiago Elena

Evolutionary and Systems biology of RNA viruses Understanding how viruses overcome host defenses has been a challenging problem. Omic techniques allow grasping a global picture of the interaction. We used Arabidopsis thaliana to identify and com- pare genes that are di!erentially regulated upon infection with several plant viruses. Genes, biological functions and metabolic processes a!ected by each virus were identified. Phylogenetically - related viruses alter the expression of similar genes. Viruses naturally infecting arabidopsis display a greater overlap in the lists of altered genes. Altered genes were mapped in arabidopsis’ PPIN, uncovering a general mode of action: virus a!ect highly connected genes.

Elena SF, Carrera J & Rodrigo J. 2011. A systems biology approach to the evolution of plant-virus interactions. Current Opinion in Plant Biology 14, 372-377 (2011).

Bedhomme S, La!orgue G, & Elena SF. 2012. Multihost experimental evolution of a plant RNA virus reveals local adaptation and host specific mutations. Molecular Biology and Evolution 29, 1481-1492.

Martínez F, La!orgue G, Morelli MJ, González-Candelas F, Chua NH, Daròs JA & Elena SF. 2012. Ultra-deep sequencing analysis of population dynamics of virus escape mutants in RNAi-mediated resistant plants. Molecular Biology and Evolution 29: 3297-3307.

Broadly speaking, we are interested in understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying the emergence of new viruses, that is the processes driving adaptation to a new host after spilling over from the reservoir one. We are currently working on topics such as the evolution of specialist and generalist viruses; characterizing the ruggedness of empirical adaptive landscapes; describing within-host dynamics of competition, spread and colonization; analyzing the evolution of virus-host interactions by a combination of omic techniques and network theory; the trade-o! between robustness and evolvability in RNA virus populations; or developing new antiviral strategies based on transgenic expression of artificial miRNAs.

virus evolution / experimental evolution / systems biology / host-virus interactions / molecular epidemiology

Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Spain

AbstractSantiago Elena

sfelena@ibmcp.upv.esbixeon.ibmcp.upv.es/EvolSysVir

26Bruno Reversade

Our research aims at understanding the principals governing normal embryonic development in hopes of determining the cause of human birth defects. We begin with rare or orphan genetic diseases, and use various model organisms, tools from genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology to better understand these diseases towards improved diagnosis and therapeutics.

We are particularly focused on elucidating the genetic basis of monozygotic twinning in humans, a form of natural re- productive cloning which allows the making of two perfect babies out of a single fertilized egg.

Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR Singapore

bruno@reversade.comhttp://www.reversade.com

Beyond Next Generation Sequencing The field of human genetics is witnessing a parading shift brought about the advent of deep sequencing which serves a powerful means to address biological questions that would otherwise be intractable. Our lab focuses on rare and unusual human traits to understand common phenotypes and ailments such as identical twinning, self-healing cancer, cognitive syndromes and premature ageing. Through a pipe- line of gene discovery and functional validation using patient’s iPSCs and animal modeling, we aim to define the phenotypic space of the human race.

Nat Genet. 2012 May 13;44(6):709-13. Mutations in IRX5 impair craniofacial development and germ cell migration via SDF1. Bonnard C, Strobl AC, Shboul M, L ee H, Merriman B, Nelson SF, Ababneh OH, Uz E, Güran T, Kayserili H, Hamamy H, Reversade B.

Nat Genet. 2011 Feb 27;43(4):365-9. Multiple self-healing squamous epithelioma is caused by a disease-specific spectrum of mutations in TGFBR1. Goudie DR, D’Alessandro M, Merriman B, Lee H, Szeverényi I, Avery S, O’Connor BD, Nelson SF, Coats SE, Stewart A, Christie L, Pichert G, Friedel J,Hayes I, Burrows N, Whittaker S, Gerdes AM, Broesby-Olsen S, Ferguson-Smith MA, Verma C, Lunny DP, Reversade B, Lane EB.

Nat Genet. 2009 Sep;41(9):1016-21. Mutations in PYCR1 cause cutis laxa with progeroid features. Reversade B, Escande-Beillard N, Dimopoulou A, Fischer B, Chng SC, Li Y, Shboul M, Tham PY, Kayserili H, Al-Gazali L, Shahwan M, Brancati F, Lee H,O’Connor BD, Schmidt-von Kegler M, Merriman B, Nelson SF, Masri A, Alkazaleh F, Guerra D, Ferrari P, Nanda A, Rajab A, Markie D, Gray M, Nelson J, Grix A, Sommer A, Savarirayan R, Janecke AR, Steichen E, Sillence D, Hausser I, Budde B, Nürnberg G, Nürnberg P, Seemann P, Kunkel D, Zambruno G,Dallapiccola B, Schuelke M, Robertson S, Hamamy H, Wollnik B, Van Maldergem L, Mundlos S, Kornak U.

Cell. 2005 Dec 16;123(6):1147-60.Regulation of ADMP and BMP2/4/7 at opposite embryonic poles generates a self-regulating morphogenetic field. Reversade B, De Robertis EM.

genetics / embryogenesis / twinning / sequencing / orphan diseases

AbstractBruno Reversade

28Krushnamegh Kunte

Molecular genetics and evolution of wing patterns in the Papilio polytes butterflyPapilio polytes swallowtail butterfly has a single non-mimetic male form and several female forms, most of which mimic locally abundant toxic butter-flies. There is genetic dominance hierarchy between the female forms. We are studying this female limited mimetic polymorphism to understand the molecular genetic basis of sexual dimorphism and polymorphism, and the basis and nature of genetic dominance. We are also trying to understand genetic changes that enable major switches between wing color patterns in butterflies, and what selective pressures favor their evolution.

Kunte K, Shea C, Aardema ML, Scriber JM, Juenger TE, Gilbert LE & Kronforst MR. 2011. Sex chromosome mosaicism and hybrid speciation among Tiger Swallowtail butterflies. PLoS Genetics 7(9): e1002274. doi:10.1371/journal.pgen.1002274.

Kunte K. 2009. The diversity and evolution of Batesian mimicry in Papilio swallowtail butterflies. Evolution 63: 2707-2716.

Kunte K. 2008. Mimetic butterflies support Wallace’s model of sexual dimorphism, Proceedings of the Royal Society B 275(1643):1617-24. doi: 10.1098/rspb.2008.0171.

I have a broad interest in biology encompassing the fields of natural selection theory, genetics, population and community ecology, and conservation biology. The long-term goals of my lab are to study the organization of biological diversity, the selective processes that shape its evolution, and the means to preserve it in the Indian Region. We specifically use two systems: butterfly wing patterns and butterfly diversity in the Indian Region, as microcosms to study a range of phenomena that fascinate us, such as morphological evolution, sexual dimorphism and polymorphism, geographical distribution of animals,and speciation.

National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore, Indiaevolution / genetics / ecology / butterfly wing patterns / speciation

AbstractKrushnamegh Kunte

krushnamegh@ncbs.res.in http://www.ncbs.res.in/krushnamegh/

30Axel Brockmann

Honeybee dance language communication - a neurobiological perspectiveHoneybees are capable of communicating distance and direction of profitable food sources to nestmates in the colony. They have evolved a walking pattern, the waggle run, of which the duration correlates with the flight distance and the orientation with the flight direction. Although the behavior of the dancer is well described, we still do not know how the dance info- rmation is communicated. In the last few years, colleagues and I started studying the neural and molecular mechanisms underlying dance language communication using anatomical, genomic, and peptidomic strategies. In my talk, I will review and discuss our current findings and future research projects.

Barron AB, Brockmann A, Sen Sarma M & Robinson GE. 2012. Molecular dissection of honey bee dance behaviour. In “Honeybee neurobiology and behaviour – a tribute for Randolf Menzel”. Eds.: D. Eisenhardt, C.G.Galizia, and M. Giurfa, Springer Verlag, Berlin Heidelberg New York.

Brockmann A, Annangudi SP, Richmond TA, Ament SA, Xie F, Southey BR, et al. 2009. Quantitative peptidomics reveal brain peptide signatures of behavior. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 106(7), 2383–2388. doi:10.1073/pnas.0813021106.

Brockmann A, & Robinson GE. 2007. Central Projections of SensorySystems Involved in Honey Bee Dance Language Communication. Brain, Behavior and Evolution, 70(2), 125–136. doi:10.1159/000102974.

I am interested in studying mechanisms of behaviour in honeybees. Honeybees were great a model system before the rise of electrophysiology and molecular biology, when only behavioral experiments could be use to demonstrate sensory and behavioral capabilities. Thus, they are among the best studied animal species but more importantly they are unique in the way, that one can study their behavior under natural conditions. In the years ahead I plan to use and develop molecular techniques to study brain processes during naturally occurring behavior.

National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bengaluru, IndiaHoneybee / neuromodulation / decision making / neuropeptides / peptidomics

AbstractAxel Brockmann

axel@ncbs.res.inhttp://www.ncbs.res.in/axel

32Benjamin Prud’homme

Evolution of wing pigmentation patterns in Drosophila species The typical pattern of morphological evolution associated with the radiation of a group of species is the emergence of a novel trait and its subsequent diversification. From butterfly eyespots and their various colorful rings to the diversity of shapes of vertebrate teeth, seashells or horn beetles, this pattern of emergence - diversification holds for countless characters. Yet the genetic mechanisms underlying these two evolutionary steps are unknown. We’re studying the evolution of wing pigmentation patterns in flies to distinguish from a gene regulatory perspective how morphological novelties emerge and how they diversify.

Arnoult L, Su KFY, Manoel D, Minervino C, Magriña J, Gompel N & Prud’homme B. 2013. Emergence and Diversification of Fly Pigmentation Through Evolution of a Gene Regulatory Module. Science, 339: 1423-1426.

Prud’homme B, Minervino C, Hocine M, Cande JD, Aouane A, Dufour HD, Kassner VA & Gompel N. 2011. Repeated morphological evolution through cis-regulatory changes in a pleiotropic gene. Nature 440: 1050-3.

Gompel N, Prud’homme B, Wittkopp PJ, Kassner VA and Carroll SB. 2005. Chance caught on the wing: cis-regulatory evolution and the origin of pigment patterns in Drosophila. Nature 433: 481-7.

My lab is interested in elucidating the genetic and develop-mental mechanisms underlying the evolution of morphological traits associated with reproductive behaviors. We focus mostly on two experimental systems using fruitflies species. First, we’re studying, from a gene regulatory perspective, the formation and evolution of a Drosophila male-specific wing pigmentation pattern displayed to females during courtship. A second model we’re studying is Drosophila suzukii, in invasive pest species that lay eggs on fresh fruits, as opposed to most fruitlfiesspecies that target rotten fruits. We’re exploring the genetic, developmental and neuronal basis of this ecological shift.

Institut de Biologie du Développement de Marseille-Luminy (IBDML) FranceDrosophila / genetics / muscle / saromere / imaging

AbstractBenjamin Prud’homme

benjamin.prudhomme @univamu.fr

http://www.ibdml.univ-mrs.fr/equipes/BP_NG/index.html

Frank Schnorrer

Making on Insect flight muscle – from genes to higher forcesHigher animals built an elaborate muscle-tendon network to perform their movements. We are investigating the morphogenesis of Drosophila flight muscles, in particular how these muscles stably connect to their tendon cell attachment sites, and when connected, how they assemble their contractile myofibrils. We apply two-photon in vivo imaging to follow the entire morphogenesis process, use tissue-specific loss of function genetics to mechanistically investigate the process and employ laser-induced microlesion to mechanically manipulate muscle-tendon morphogenesis in vivo. We identified mechanical tension as the essential trigger for myofibrillogenesis.

My lab is investigating three major interconnected topics. 1. Muscle diversity - How can Drosophila build di!erent muscle types? How do myoblasts achieve di!erent identities by the expression of particular transcriptions factors? 2. Muscle-tendon network formation. We study how forming muscles identify their appropriate tendon cells and form stable attachments with them. After being attached the formation of the contractile apparatus is triggered. 3. Muscle function. We study how the contractile filaments are assembled and adjusted to the needs of each muscle type. We apply genetic and mechanical manipulations to interfere with normal morphogenesis and measure its phenotypic consequences.

evolution / flies / behavior / genomics / cis-regulation

AbstractFrank Schnorrer

schnorrer@biochem.mpg.dehttp://www.biochem.mpg.de/schnorrer

34

Max Planck Institute for Biochemistry

36María Dolores Martín-Bermudo

Mechanisms regulating cell migration Cell migration plays a key role in a wide variety of biological phenomena that take place during both embryogenesis and in the adult organism. By using Drosophila as our model system, we have isolated new factors regulating cell migration. Thus, we have recently shown that the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Vav acts as a signal transducer that couplessignalling downstream of guidance receptors to Rac activation during directed cell migration. In addition, we have shown that integrins, main cell-ECM recep-tors, play an essential role in regulation di!erent aspects of the migratory behaviour, including speed of migration and microtubule dynamics.

Urbano JM, Torgler CN, Molnar C, Tepass U, López-Varea A, Brown NH, de Celis JF & Martín-Bermudo MD. 2009. Source Drosophila laminins act as key regulators of basement membrane assembly and morpho- genesis. Development 136(24):4165-76. doi: 10.1242/dev.044263.

Cobreros-Reguera L, Fernández-Miñán A, Fernández-Espartero CH, López-Schier H, González-Reyes A, & Martín-Bermudo MD. 2010. The Ste20 kinase misshapen is essential for the invasive behaviour of ovari-an epithelial cells in Drosophila. EMBO Reports 2010 December; 11(12): 943-949.

Fernández-Espartero CH, Ramel D, Farago M, Malartre M, Luque CM,Limanovich S, Katzav S, Emery G & Martín-Bermudo MD. 2013. GTP exchange factor Vav regulates guided cell migration by coupling guidance receptor signalling to local Rac activation. Journal of Cell Science May 15;126(Pt10):2285-93. doi: 10.1242/jcs.124438.

Martín-Bermudo´s research interests focuses on the molecular and genetic study of the mechanisms regulating cell migration using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. During em- bryonic development there are numerous occasions where organ or tissue formation depends upon the migration of primordial cells over large distances. This behaviour, a fascinating process in normal embryonic cells, which involves numerous intricately-coordinated and controlled decisions, becomes destructive and damaging when acquired by cancerous cells. Hence, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that transform stationary epithelial cells into migratory would not only help to comprehend more about embryogenesis, but also help to understand, treat or even prevent cancer.

migration / drosophila / metastasis / integrins / signalling Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Spain

AbstractMaría Dolores Martín-Bermudo

mdmarber@upo.eswww.cabd.es

Alexander Stark

Regulatory Genomics - Decoding TranscriptionalRegulatory Sequences Transcriptional regulatory information is encoded in enhancers, discrete regions within the non-coding part of the genome. We developed STARR-seq to directly and quantitatively assess enhancer activity of millions of candidate sequences across entire genomes. Applied to two Drosophila cell-types, STARR-seq reveals thous- ands of enhancers with cell-type specific activity across a wide range of strengths. Surprisingly, about one third of the enhancers lie in inaccessible chrom- atin and are marked by H3K27me3, suggesting that their endogenous loci are silenced or correspond to a poised enhancer state – even though such enhancers function in luciferase assays using ectopic or geno-mically integrated reporters.

Arnold CD, Gerlach D, Stelzer C, Bory LM, Rath M & Stark A. 2013. Genome-wide quantitative enhancer activity maps identified by STARR-seq. Science March 1;339(6123):1074-1077.

Yáñez-Cuna JO, Dinh HQ, Kvon EZ, Shlyueva D & Stark A. 2012. Uncovering cis-regulatory sequence requirements for context specific transcription factor binding. Genome Research Oct;22(10):2018-2030.

Kvon EZ, Stampfel G, Yáñez-Cuna JO, Dickson BJ & Stark A. 2012. HOT regions function as patterned developmental enhancer and have a distinct cis-regulatory signature. Genes Development 2012 May 1;26(9):908-913.

The regulation of gene expression in response to developmental or environmental stimuli is a crucial process in all organisms. The DNA sequence of cis-regulatory elements (CRMs or enhan- cers) encodes the regulatory information that is necessary and su!cient to transcribe a gene in a given cell or tissue. However, despite this defined sequence-to-function relationship, the exact requirements for enhancer activity, i.e. a regulatory code, remains unknown.

We use both bioinformatics- and molecular biology-based methods to “crack” the regulatory code, predict enhancer activity from the DNA sequence, and understand how trans-criptional networks define cellular and developmental programs.

genomics / bioinformatics / gene regulation / epigenetics

AbstractAlexander Stark

stark@imp.ac.athttp://starklab.org

Institute of Molecular Pathology, Germany

38

Soumen Basak

Crosstalk Control of Inflammatory Immune ResponseDevelopmental cues present in the tissue micro- environment are known to modulate the inflam-matory response elicited by the resident cells.However, the molecular mechanism that links developmental and inflammatory signaling remains unknown. In a multidisciplinary study, which combines biochemistry, genetics and mathematical modeling, we reveal important contribution of the NF-kappaB system in mediating signaling crosstalk that allows developmental cues to fine-tune inflammatory responses. Further, we identify molecular determinants those generatestimulus and cell-type specificity of crosstalk control. Finally, we discuss physiological significance of crosstalk in pathogen clearance.

A fourth I_B protein in the NF-kappaB signaling module. Soumen Basak, Ha Na Kim, Je! Kearns, Vinay Tergaonkar, Ellen Odea, Shannon L. Werner, Chris A. Benedict, Carl F Ware, Gouri Ghosh, Inder M. Verma, Alexander Ho!mann; Cell. 2007 Jan 26; 128(2): 369-81.

Generation and activation of multiple dimeric transcription factors within the NF-kappaB signaling system. Soumen Basak, Vincent F-S Shih and Alexander Ho!mann; Mol Cell Biol. May 2008, 28(10):3139-50.

Lessons from modeling the NF-kappaB pathway. Soumen Basak, Marcelo Behar, Alexander Ho!mann: Immunological Reviews, 2012, Mar; 246(1):221-38.

A given mammalian signaling protein tends to interact with a diverse set of partners; those include constituents of the principal signaling pathway as well as signaling intermediates belonging to separate signaling axes. These interaction diversities, therefore, generate interconnectedness between apparently distinct cell signaling modules. Interestingly, impinging signals derived from a variety of cues are thought to concomitantly activate multiple signaling pathways in the physiological settings. In the Systems Immunology Laboratory at NII, we are investigating the physiological and pathophysiological importance of the interconnectedness of cell network in mediating signaling crosstalk between distinct cell activating cues.

National Institute of Immunology, India

AbstractSoumen Basak

sobasak@nii.ac.inhttp://www1.nii.res.in/research/soumen-basak

Systems Biology / NF-kappaB / Inflammation / Pathogen / Pathophysiology

40

MS Madhusudhan

Using biomolecular 3D comparisons for predicting and designing structures and interactionsSignificant insights into biological systems could be obtained by comparing and classifying the 3D structures of their molecular components. The CLICK algorithm optimally superimposes 3D structures,independent of topology, using a method of clique matching and 3D least squares fitting (Nguyen and Madhusudhan, 2011). A confidence score is computed for each match of the query structure against a database structure to gauge the significance of the alignment. Since CLICK is capable of superimposing the 3D structures of any pair of biomolecules, it is unique in that it o!ers one the ability of comparing proteins, DNA, RNA and even complexes or fragments of the aforementioned. Such comparisons have helped in the detection of interaction partners and in the design of inhibitors.

Biological insights from topology independent comparison of protein 3D structures. Nguyen MN and Madhusudhan MS. Nucleic Acids Res. 2011 39(14) e94.

Depth: a web server to compute depth, cavity sizes, detect potentialsmall-molecule ligand-binding cavities and predict the pKa of ionizable residues in proteins. Tan KP, Nguyen TB, Patel S, Varadarajan R, Madhusudhan MS. Nucleic Acids Res. 2013 41:W314-21.

Protein complex compositions predicted by structural similarity. DavisFP, Braberg H, Shen MY, Pieper U, Sali A, Madhusudhan MS.Nucleic Acids Res. 2006 34(10):2943-52.

Our aim is to ac curately model the 3D structures of proteins and their complexes. To this end, we combine the laws of physics along with experimental observation and statistics to develop computational methods in structural biology. The methods are tested, often in close collaboration with experi-mental biologists, on particular systems of interest. Ourresearch gives detailed information of cellular processes and hence impacts research in many di!erent streams of biology.

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune3D structure modeling / Satisfaction of spatial restraints

AbstractMS Madhusudhan

42

madhusudhan@iiserpune.ac.in

http://www.iiserpune-ac.in/people/facultyde-tails/108

Daniel Wilson

Throwing a Spanner In The Ribosomal WorksIn every living organism, translation of the genetic code into functional proteins is performed on the ribosome. Growing evidence indicates that regu-lation at the translational level is equally important as transcription for regulation of gene expression. Moreover, the fundamental importance of translation is reflected by the fact that the ribosome is a major target in the cell for natural antibiotics. The presen-tation will provide an overview into current projects in the Wilson laboratory investigating how the interaction of ligands with the ribosome can regulate translation and thus modulate gene expression.

Structural basis for TetM-mediated tetracycline resistance. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 2012, 109(42):16900-5.

Translation elongation factor EF-P alleviates ribosome stalling atpolyproline stretches. Science, 2013, 339(6115):82-85.

Distinct XPPX sequence motifs induce ribosome stalling, which is rescued by the translation elongation factor EF-P. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 2013, 110(38):15265-70.

In every living organism, translation of the genetic code into functional proteins is performed on the ribosome. Growing evidence indicates that regulation at the translational level is equally important as transcription for regulation of gene expression. Moreover, the fundamental importance of trans-lation is reflected by the fact that the ribosome is a major target in the cell for natural antibiotics. The Wilson lab takes a combined structure-function approach to address how specific ligands, such as antibiotics as well as protein factors, modulate gene expression via interaction with the translational apparatus.

Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Germanyantibiotics / resistance / ribosomes / translation

AbstractDaniel Wilson

wilson@lmb.uni-muenchen.de http://www.wilson.genzentrum.lmu.de

44

Akash Gulyani

Imaging Protein Activity In Living Cells: Src Kinases At The Leading Edge Signaling networks that control cell behavior are tightly regulated in space and time. Fluorescent biosensors for living cells can provided a valuable window on the dynamics of these networks, provi-ding quantitative information on the kinetics and localization of protein activity in vivo. However, biosensors for living cells currently require consi-derable optimization for each target and are also limited by the availability of naturally occurring ligands/binding elements with appropriate target specificity. In this talk, I will describe a new approach of generating biosensors based on an engineered fibronectin monobody sca!old that can be tailored to bind di!erent targets via high throughput (HT) screening. Using the artificial monobody sca!old and extremely bright reporter fluorescent dyes, we generated a biosensor that can report the activation of endogenous, unmodified Src family kinases (SFK) in living cells. The new SFK biosensor in conjunction with automated analysis of cell edge dynamics pro- vides revealing insights into the role of Src kinases in cell migration. I will discuss how we are studying signaling dynamics associated with Src family kinases that play a critical role in controlling cell fate. I will also discuss briefly how biosensors and diagnostic tools can rapidly be developed using high-content, high-throughput imaging in combination with cutting-edge chemical biology.

AbstractAkash Gulyani

akash.gulyani@gmail.com http://instem.res.in/2012-10-03-07-02-12/akash-gulyani

46

Ravi Manjithaya

Small Molecules Shed Light On Autophagy Regulation Autophagy (refers to macroautophagy) is a conserved process that contributes to cell survival during starvation conditions by degrading damaged or superfluous organelles and protein aggregates to produce building blocks and energy. Regulation of autophagy is perturbed in many pathophysiologicalconditions such as infections, neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. In order to elucidate mecha-nisms of autophagy regulation, we embarked on identifying small molecule modulators of autophagy. We also used high throughput yeast models for neurodegeneration to identify small molecules that rescued cytotoxicity by promoting autophagy. Some of the “hits” were also found to modulate autophagy in mammalian models systems.

PpAtg30 Tags Peroxisomes for Turnover by Selective Autophagy, Developmental Cell.

A yeast MAPK cascade regulates pexophagy but not other autophagypathways, The Journal of Cell Biology.

Unconventional secretion of Pichia pastoris Acb1 is dependent on GRASP protein, peroxisomal functions, and autophagosome formation, The Journal of Cell Biology.

My lab is interested in understanding the regulation of an intracellular process known as autophagy. Autophagy is required for maintaining cellular homeostasis by recycling superfluous and damaged cytosolic components. Autophagy is misregulated in various types of pathologies including intracellular infection, neurodegenerative disorders and cancers. We employ small molecules to decipher autophagy modulation during physiological and pathophysiological conditions. We are also interested in non-canonical functions of autophagy such as protein secretion.

Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Researchautophagy / cell biology / small molecule / neurodegenrative disorders / biochemistry

AbstractRavi Manjithaya

ravim@jncasr.ac.in http://www.wellcomedbt.org/ravi_a.html

48

50Chi Wai Eric So

Targeting the epigenetic machinery and self-renewal pathway in leukemic stem cells In acute myeloid leukemia (AML) where leukemic stem cells (LSCs) have been functionally identified, the most prevalent chimeric leukemia associated transcription factors (LATFs) are believed to act as the initiating events in converting normal cells into pre-LSCs with enhanced self-renewal property, which will eventually acquire additional genetic and/or epigenetic events to become LSCs. In this talk, I will discuss the critical steps involved in conversion of normal cells into LSCs with a particular emphasis on the role of epigenetic deregulation and self-renewal pathways in disease initiation and treatment response.

Arteaga MF, Mikesch JH, Qiu JH, Christensen J, Helin K, Kogan, SC, Dong S, *So CW. The histone demethylase PHF8 governs retinoic acid response in acute promyelocyctic leukemia. Cancer Cell 23: 376-89, 2013 (Journal Cover)

Smith L, Yeung J, Zeisig BB, Popov N, Huijbers I, Barnes J, Wilson AJ, Taskesen E, Delwel R, Gil J, Van Lohuizen M, *So CW. Functional crosstalk between Bmi1 and MLL/Hoxa9 axis in establishment of normal hematopoietic and leukemic stem cells. Cell Stem Cell 8 (3): 649-62, 2011 (Featured article)

Yeung J, Esposito MT, Gandillet A, Zeisig BB, Griessinger E, Bonnet D, *So CW. ß-catenin mediates the establishment and drug resistance of MLL leukemic stem cells. Cancer Cell Vol. 18 (6): 606-18, 2010

Leukemia is a clonal disease initiated from a very small number of pre-leukemic stem cells (pre-LSCs) carrying the initiating genetic events, which subsequently convert to full blown LSCs by acquiring further mutations necessary for the overt diseases such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Emerging evidence indicates that pathways critical for regulation of normal stem cells are frequently hijacked or mutated in LSCs. My group is interested in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the oncogenic conversion of normal cells into AML stem cells with a particular focus in targeting epigenetic machinery and self-renewal pathways that are deregulated in LSCs.

King’s College London, The University of London, U.K.Self-renewal / Cancer Stem Cells / Leukemia / Transcription Regulation

AbstractChi Wai Eric So

eric.so@kcl.ac.ukwww.ericso.org

Soumen Chakraborty

BCR-ABL mediated repression of MIR-223 results in the activation of MEF2C and PTB2C in chronic myeloid leukemiaGiven the extensive regulation of normal hema-topoietic development by miRNA’s, it is of no surprise that miRNA’s are extensively involved in the pathogenesis of hematopoietic malignancies. We correlated the expression pattern of miRNA-223 with the Sokal score and the neutrophil percentage in clinical samples of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Hybridization of two di!erent mRNA datasets with the target scan data base revealed several genes that may be targeted by miRNA-223. Out of them PTBP2 and MEF2C were found to be up regulated in significant number of CML samples. Potential role of MEF2C in CML will be discussed.

BCR-ABL mediated repression of miR-223 results in the activation of MEF2C and PTBP2 in chronic myeloid leukemia. Leukemia.

Acetylation of the Proto-Oncogene EVI1 Abrogates Bcl-xL Promoter Binding and Induces Apoptosis. PLOS ONE.

SUMO1 negatively regulates the transcriptional activity of EVI1 andsignificantly increases its co-localization with EVI1 after treatmentwith arsenic trioxide. Biochim Biophys Acta - Molecular Cell Research.

Soumen’s lab is basically interested in understanding the role of miRNA-mRNA network involved in chronic myeloid leukemia stem cells and disease maintenance. His lab is also interested to know how post-translationally modified oncogenes with respect to the wild type counterpart di!erentially modulate leukemogenesis.

Institute of Life Sciences, India

AbstractSoumen Chakraborty

soumen_ils@yahoo.co.inhttp://www.ils.res.in/schakraborty.htm

Leukemogenesis / Stem cells / miRNA / Post-translational modification / Genomics

52

Prasenjit Guchhait Prasen

Intravascular Hemolysis Increases Severity of Thrombosis: New Insights Into an Old ProblemThrombosis, thromboembolism and hypercoagulation are common clinical events in hemolytic patients. Intravascular hemolysis releases excessive hemoglobin (Hb) into plasma causing many deleterious e!ects. We show a mechanism whereby extracellular Hb contributes to develop a prothrombotic state by increasing the reactivity of von Willebrand factor (VWF) to platelets. Hb significantly increases VWF binding to platelets and promotes thrombus for-mation. We show that Hb increases VWF binding to platelet by bridging one end at VWFA1-A2 domains, other end at N-terminal region of GP1b_.

Zhou Z, Yee D, Guchhait P. 2012. Molecular link between intravascular hemolysis and vascular occlusion in sickle cell disease. Current Vascu-lar Pharmacology. 10(6):756-61.

Zhou Z, Thiagarajan P, Udden MA, Lopez JA, Guchhait P. 2011. Membrane sulfatide plays a crucial role in the sickle erythrocytes adhesion to matrix and endothelial ligands. Thrombosis Haemosta-sis.105:1046-52.

Zhou Z, Han H, Cruz MA, Jose JA, Dong JF, Guchhait P. 2009. Hemoglobinblocks von Willebrand factor proteolysis by ADAMTS-13: a mechanismassociated with sickle cell disease. Thrombosis Haemostasis.101(6):1070-77.

Understanding complex pathophysiology of thrombosis andhyper coagulation that leads to blood vessel blockage in di!erent disease conditions.

Regional Centre for Biotechnology, India

AbstractPrasenjit Guchhait Prasen

prasenjit@rcb.res.in

Thrombosis / Hypercoagulation / Hemolytic Disorders

54

Katja Sträßer

Coupling transcription to mRNP formation and export TREX is a protein complex that couples transcription to nuclear mRNA export in S. cerevisiae. Here, we show that TREX is recruited to transcribed genes by direct interaction with the serine 2-serine 5 (S2/S5) dephosphorylated C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II. As S2 phosphorylation, the occupancy of TREX increases from the 5’ to the 3’ end of genes. Importantly, this 5’-3’ increase is essential for the correct expression of long genes. In summary, we provide insight into how TREX is recruited to the transcription machinery and how the phospho-code of the CTD directs mRNP formation and export.

Recruitment of TREX to the Transcription Machinery by its Direct Binding to the Phospho-CTD of RNA Polymerase II, PLOS Genetics (accepted).

The Prp19 Complex is a Novel Transcription Elongation Factor Required for TREX Occupancy at Transcribed Genes, Genes Dev.

The RNA polymerase II CTD kinase Ctk1 functions in translation elongation. Genes Dev.

RNA polymerase II transcribes protein-coding genes and synthesizes the messenger (m)RNA. We are interested into how an mRNP is formed cotranscriptionally, how it is exported to the cytoplasm, and how these processes are linked. To analyze this, we employ genome-wide experiments such as chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and transcriptomics as well as classical biochemistry. A second focus of the lab is the phosph-orylation of ribosomal proteins and its function in translation. We identified ribosomal phosphosites and their changes under di!erent stress conditions by phosphoproteomics and now analyze their functional relevance. Our main model organism is S. cerevisiae.

Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Germany gene expression / mRNP formation / mRNA export / translation / S. cerevisiae

AbstractKatja Sträßer

strasser@lmb.uni-muenchen.de

http://www.straesser.genzentrum.lmu.de/

56

Sophie Jarriault

Fundamental principles underlying natural direct reprogramming Di!erentiated cells can, under certain conditions, adopt another di!erentiated identity. Such a fascinating process, which represents an attractive strategy for regenerative medicine, is poorly understood. Our laboratory has established a unique model in Caenorhabditis elegans where the change of identity of given cells can be followed in vivo in a physiological context. I will highlight our latest results using this integrated single-cell paradigm of natural direct reprogramming to address important questions such as how the initiation of the process is promoted, whether transition through a pluripotent ground state is needed and the involvement of epigenetic reprogramming.

Members of the NODE (Nanog and Oct-4-associated deacetylase) complex and SOX-2 promote the initiation of a natural cellular reprogramming event in vivo, PNAS 2012.

Direct in vivo reprogramming involves transition through discrete, non-pluripotent steps, Development 2011.

A C. elegans model for epithelial-neuronal transdi!erentiation. PNAS 2008.

Sophie Jarriault is interested in the mechanisms that control cellular potential in vivo. Many challenges have precluded the study of mostly rare instances of reprogramming events in cellular populations. To overcome these and decipher the mechanisms and general principles underlying cellular plasticity, her lab focuses on defined and robust natural direct reprogramming events at the single cell level in the roundworm C. elegans.

Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, FranceTransdi!erentiation / direct reprogramming / cellularplasticity / C. elegans / epigenetics

AbstractSophie Jarriault

sophie@igbmc.frhttp://igbmc.fr/jarriault

58

Shravanti Rampalli

EZH2 favours pluripotent reprogramming Factor induced reprogramming of fibroblasts is an orchestrated but ine!cient process. At the epigenetic level it results in drastic chromatin changes to erase the existing somatic “memory”. Accordingly, the alteration of chromatin regulators including Ezh2 influences iPSC generation. While the role of individual transcription factors in resetting the chromatin landscape during iPSC generation is increasingly evident, their engagement with chromatin modulators remains to be elucidated. I will present the evidences of supportive role of Ezh2 in human fibroblast reprogramming and provide mechanistic insights by which it restrains the somatic programme and promote iPSC generation.

AbstractShravanti Rampalli

My lab addresses the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for cellular plasticity of somatic cells towards establishment of pluri/multipotent state and subsequently in tissue regeneration. Epigenetics and stem cells.

Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine

shravantird@instem.res.inwww.ncbs.res.in/inStem/

Cell fate potential of human pluripotent stem cells is encoded byhistone modifications. Hong SH, Rampalli S, Lee JB, McNicol J, CollinsT, Draper JS, Bhatia M. Cell Stem Cell. 2011 Jul 8;9(1):24-36. doi:10.1016/j.stem.2011.06.002.

p38 MAPK signaling regulates recruitment of Ash2L-containingmethyltransferase complexes to specific genes during di!erentiation.Rampalli S, Li L, Mak E, Ge K, Brand M, Tapscott SJ, Dilworth FJ. NatStruct Mol Biol. 2007 Dec;14(12):1150-6. Epub 2007 Nov 18.

Gli3-mediated hedgehog inhibition in human pluripotent stem cellsinitiates and augments developmental programming of adult hematopoiesis. McIntyre BA, Ramos-Mejia V, Rampalli S, Mechael R, Lee JH, Alev C, Sheng G, Bhatia M. Blood. 2013 Feb 28;121(9):1543-52. doi:10.1182/blood-2012-09-457747. Epub 2013 Jan 4.

60

Ram Yadav

Gene regulatory networks underlying cell type specification in shoot apical meristem Continuous growth of plants post embryonically depends upon the maintenance of stem cell niches. Over the past two decades, genetic studies have identified a number of genes whose roles has been established in stem cell specification and organ formation in shoot apical meristem (SAM). The homeodomain transcription factor WUSCHEL (WUS) has been shown to be necessary for stem cell specification in SAM. I will talk about how we resolved the WUS-responsive gene network using high-resolution cell type specific gene expression map.

Plant stem cell maintenance involves direct transcriptional repressionof di!erentiation program, Molecular Systems Biology.

WUSCHEL protein movement mediates stem cell homeostasis in the Arabidopsis shoot apex, Genes & Development.

Gene expression map of the Arabidopsis shoot apical meristem stem cell niche. Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci.

Ram’s research interest lies in the area of plant development biology. He studies stem cell specification and di!erentiation in the Arabidopsis shoot apical meristem. using a variety of approaches, e.g. live-cell imaging, single cell genomics and genetics. One major question in plant development is how the stem cells are specified and when they transits from stem cell niches to form organ anlagen, how they acquires cell identities. He identified several cell type specific promoters and developed them successfully into fluorescent protein based reporters to mark individual cell type in SAM.

Indian institute of Science Education and Research, MohaliPlant Development / Stem Cells / Single Cell Genomics / Gene Networking / Live-Cell Imaging

AbstractRam Yadav

ryadav@iisermohali.ac.in http://www.iisermohali.ac.in/html/faculty/ramyadav.html

62

Arp Schnittger

Control of cell proliferation and growth in plantsPlant growth and proliferation control is coming into a global focus due to recent ecological and economical developments. Plants represent not only the largest food supply for mankind but also may serve as a global source of renewable energies. The mere presence of many conserved core cell cycle regulators, e.g., CDKs, cyclins or CDK inhibitors, has formed the idea that the cell cycle in plants is exactly or at least very similarly controlled as in yeast or human cells. However, our work has demonstrated that this dogma is not a priori true and we found that even central aspects of eukaryotic cell cycle control underwent a high degree of functional di!erentiation. Our findings build an important base for the understanding and ultimate modulation of plant growth not only during unperturbed but also under harsh environmental conditions.

Harashima H., Dissmeyer N., and Schnittger A. (2013). Cell cycle control across the eukaryotic kingdom. Trends in Cell Biology, 23, 345-56.

Nowack, M.K., Harashima, H., Dissmeyer, N., Weimer, A.K., Zhao, X-A.,Bouyer, D., De Winter, F., Fang, Y., and Schnittger, A. (2012).Genetic framework of cyclin-dependent kinase function in Arabidop-sis.Dev Cell, 22, 1030-40.

Zhao, X., Harashima, H., Dissmeyer, N., Pusch, S., Weimer, A.K., Bouyer,D., Rademacher, S., Nowack, M.K., Novak, B., Sprunck, S., andSchnittger, A. (2012).A general G1/S-phase cell-cycle module inArabidopsis.PLoS Genetics, 8:e1002847.

Our team is interested in the interplay between development and cell cycle control. In particular, we study cell division control during plant reproduction, i.e. meiosis, gametophyte development and early seed formation. We use a wide range of di!erent techniques ranging from cell biology, genetics, and molecular biology to biochemistry including genomics and proteomics tools.

cell cycle / meiosis / chromatin / plant breedingInstitut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes , France

AbstractArp Schnittger

Arp.Schnittger@ibmp-ulp. u-strasbg.fr

http://ibmp.ustrasbg.fr/index.php?id=33&L=1&tx_labstructdef_pi1[view-Type]=team&tx_labstruct-def_pi1[showUid]=78

64

Eva Ho!mann

Understanding the origins of human aneuploidy Aberrant recombination and the age of women have been linked to defective chromosome transmission into human oocytes, which underlie >90% of human aneuploidies. Using genome-wide SNP mapping in all three products of human female meiosis, we provide the first direct evidence of chromosome misseg-regation patterns. However, the most common missegregation event is reminiscent of an ‘inverted meiosis’: the two sister chromatids of the two partner (homologous) chromosomes separate at meiosis I, followed by segregation of the two non-sister chromatids at meiosis II. Remarkably, this leads to the formation of an euploid oocyte and occurs on an homolog autonomous basis.

A Mec1- and PP4-dependent checkpoint couples centromere pairing to meiotic recombination, Dev. Cell.

Ipl1/Aurora B kinase coordinates synaptonemal complex disassembly with cell cycle progression and crossover formation budding yeast meiosis, Genes and Development.

The synaptonemal complex protein, Zip1 promotes the segregation ofnonexchange chromosomes at meiosis I, PNAS.

The Ho!mann lab is interested in understanding genomic integrity and chromosome transmission to the next generation. We study the basic fundamental processes that important for the accurate transmission of chromosomes to the zygote using a combination of model organisms and human oocytes. We are also interested in understanding mutagenesis in the germline and early embryo, which underpins genome evolution.

meiosis /chromosome / segregation / recombination / genomics /yeast / human / microscopy

University of Sussex, United Kingdom

AbstractEva Ho!mann

eh58@sussex.ac.ukhttp://www.sussex.ac.uk/lifesci/ho!mannlab/

66

Petr Svoboda

The real RNAi- a tale of naughty miceOur earlier study revealed robust production of short interfering RNAs(siRNAs) in the oocyte but not in somatic tissues in the mouse. We now report that growing mouse oocytes express a unique, N-terminally truncated isoform of the small RNA-producing enzyme Dicer. Our data show that this Dicer isoform is res- ponsible for increased production of endogenous siRNAs in the oocyte. The oocyte-specific Dicer isoform is the first evidence for molecular divergence of mammalian miRNA and RNAi mechanisms. Notably, production of oocyte-specific Dicer is controlled by a rodent-specific retrotransposon. This fact hasinteresting implications regarding evolution and conservation of RNA silencing pathways in animals.

Maternally recruited DCP1A and DCP2 contribute to messenger RNA degradation during oocyte maturation and genome activation in mouse. Biol Reprod. 2013 Jan 10;88(1):11. doi: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.

dsRNA expression in the mouse elicits RNAi in oocytes and low adenosine deamination in somatic cells. Nucleic Acids Res. 2012 Jan;40(1):399-413. doi: 10.1093/nar/gkr702.

MicroRNA activity is suppressed in mouse oocytes. Curr Biol. 2010 Feb9;20(3):265-70. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2009.12.042.

We study reprogramming of oocytes into pluripotent blastomeres of an early embryo (oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET)). This model is the natural parallel to the artificial reprogramming of somatic cells into iPSCs. OET, however, is distinct. It is a unidi- rectional transient process executed by cytoplasmic factors. Our primary research interest is in post-transcriptional mechanisms underlying OET. These mechanisms include control of maternal mRNA stability, small regulatory RNAs in miRNA and RNAi pathways, and production of maternal transcription factors, which will control gene expression in the embryo. Our goal is to understand how control of gene expression creates develop-mental competence in vivo.

RNAi / miRNA / oocyte / mRNA degradation /genome activation

AbstractPetr Svoboda

svobodap@img.cas.czhttp://www.img.cas.cz/ vedecke-skupiny/petr-svoboda/

68

Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR,v.v.i, Czech Repulic

Subba Rao Gangi Setty

ARL4A and RABIP4’ act together to regulate the endosomal transport to melanosomes through KIF3A Arf-like GTPases (ARLs) belongs to a RAS super family and regulate diverse functions including membrane tra!cking and microtubule formation. More than 20 ARL family members have been identified in mammals but the function of ARL4A is unknown. Here, we define a novel function of ARL4A in melanosome biogenesis by regulating the endosomal transport steps to melanosome. Knockdown of ARL4A in mouse melanocytes showed hypopigmentation and mislocalized melanogenic enzyme, tyrosinase (TYR) but not TYRP1 to lysosomes. In addition, ARL4A knockdown cells showed a global defect in AP-3-dependent cargo transport. Moreover, ARL4A interacts with RABIP4’, an e"ector of Rab4 and known to bound with AP-3 in non-melanocytes. Knockdown of either RABIP4’ or Rab4 in the wild type melanocytes or AP-3 knockout melanocytes showed a defect in TYR transport to melanosomes similar to ARL4A depletion. Interestingly, ARL4A showed a direct interaction with KIF3A, an AP-3 interacting kinesin-2 family motor protein and its knockdown showed defect in melanosomal transport. This data suggests that ARL4A and RABIP4’ together recruit AP-3 on to the vesicles which further interacts with KIF3A. Thus, ARL4A mediates the AP-3 dependent transport steps in close interaction with RABIP4’ and KIF3A.

Setty SR, Shin ME, Yoshino A, Marks MS & Burd CG. 2003. Golgi recruitment of GRIP domain proteins by Arf-like GTPase 1 is regulated by Arf-like GTPase 3. Current Biology 13: 401-404.

Setty SR, Strochlic TI, Tong AHY, Boone C & Burd CG. 2004. Golgi targeting of ARF- like GTPase Arl3p requires its N_-acetylation and the integral membrane protein Sys1p. Nature Cell Biology 6: 414-419.

Setty SR, Tenza D, Sviderskaya EV, Bennett DC, Raposo G & Marks MS. 2008. Cell-specific ATP7A transport sustains copper-dependent tyrosinase activity in melanosomes. Nature 454: 1142-1146.

The organelles of the endocytic pathway are particularly pleomorphic and contribute to forming many di"erent classes of physiologically important organelles in di"erent cell types. Among these organelles, melanosomes in melanocytes belong to a class of Lysosome-related organelles (LRO), which coexist with lysosomes in their respective cell types. Interestingly, defects in the formation and function of these LRO result in several rare autosomal genetic disorders. We are interested in understanding the cell biology behind one of this multisystemic disorder, Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS). This disease is characterized by oculocutaneous albinism, platelet deficiency, and often lung fibrosis and/or immune dysfunction. These defects were result from mutations within genes encoding subunits of multi-subunit protein complexes namely BLOC (Biogenesis of Lysosome-related Organelles Complex)-1, BLOC-2, AP (Adaptor Protein)-3 and HOPS. We have shown previously, these complexes regulate transport steps to melanosomes. Presently, we are interested in identifying the protein transport machinery (SNARE, Rab, ARL GTPase proteins and tethering factors) for these melanosomal transport steps. These studies will both directly and indirectly improve our understanding of this heritable bleeding disorder and LRO biogenesis.Indian Institute of Science, IndiaOrganelle biogenesis / Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome / ARF-like GTPases / protein tra!cking to melanosomes

AbstractSubba Rao Gangi Setty

subba@mcbl.iisc.ernet.in http://mcbl.iisc.ernet.in/subbarao.html

70

Ullas Kolthur

Metabolic regulatory network: an interplay between genetic factors and dietary inputs In this talk, I will be highlighting our studies on Sir2/Sirt1 (nuclear sirtuin) and Sirt4 (mitochondrial sirtuin) using flies and mammalian systems. From organismal metabolic regulatory network (Sir2/Sirt1) to retrograde signaling from mitochondria to the nucleus (Sirt4), we have provided novel insights into the cross-talk between metabolic sensors at the organismal level. With consequences on aging and age-related diseases, findings from our lab highlight the importance of Sirtuins as key factors that link metabolic inputs to cellular functions and also as relevant targets for treating lifestyle disorders.

Fatbody dSir2 regulates muscle mitochondrial physiology and energy homeostasis via fat metabolism and IIS, and mimics the autonomous functions of dSir2 in muscles.

dSir2 in the fatbody but not muscles regulates diet-dependent lifespan extension.

Glucose dependent changes in mir-9 transcription regulate the NAD-dependent deacetylase Sirt1 in insulin secreting beta-cells.

In our lab we are interested in understanding the importance of metabolic sensors in mediating organismal physiology and their implications in aging and age-related diseases. Using Sirtuins as candidates we address molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms that link metabolic inputs to cellular functions. We employ flies, mice and cell culture systems to unravel the components that mediate both inter-organellar and inter-tissue communications. We study transcriptional, post-transcriptional, epigenetic and mitochondrial alterations in cells and tissues. The overall theme is to understand how integration of signals (between metabolic sensors) leads to varied but precise responses to metabolic changes at a systems level.

Sirtuins / Aging / Mitochondria / Metabolism / IIS / MiRs

AbstractUllas Kolthur

ullas@tifr.res.in http://www.tifr.res.in/~dbs/faculty/ullas/lab/Welcome.html

72

Carsten Janke

Molecular mechanisms and biological functions of microtubule diversityI will present the discovery of the modification enzymes responsible for the tubulin modifications polyglutamylation and polyglycylation, and show how these enzymes regulate microtubule functions. Our team has shown an important implication of polyglutamylation in neurodegeneration, as well as a key role for glycylation in stabilizing cilia and flagella. We have further shown that absence of glycylating enzymes can lead to amplified tumour development, which can be explained by dysfunction and loss of primary cilia.

Janke C, Rogowski K, Wloga D, Regnard C, Kajava AV, Strub J-M, Temurak N, van Dijk J, Boucher D, van Dorsselaer A, Suryavanshi S, Gaertig J & Eddé B. 2005. Tubulin polyglutamylase enzymes are members of the TTL domain protein family. Science 308: 1758-1762.

Rogowski K, Juge F, van Dijk J, Wloga D, Strub J-M, Levilliers N, Thomas D, Bre M-H, Van Dorsselaer A, Gaertig J & Janke C (2009) Evolutionary divergence of enzymatic mechanisms for posttranslational polyglycyla-tion. Cell 137: 1076-1087.

Rogowski K, van Dijk J, Magiera MM, Bosc C, Deloulme J-C, Bosson A,Peris L, Gold ND, Lacroix B, Bosch Grau M, Bec N, Larroque C, DesagherS, Holzer M, Andrieux A, Moutin M-J & Janke C (2010) A family ofprotein-deglutamylating enzymes associated with neurodegeneration. Cell 143: 564-578.

The research projects of our group focus on the role of tubulin posttranslational modifications in the regulation of the functions of the microtubule cytoskeleton. Our group has discovered and characterized many of the enzymes that are involved in the catalysis of the tubulin modifications poly-glutamylation and polyglycylation. Functional studies have revealed important implications of both, polyglutamylation and polyglycylation in di!erent functions of the microtubule cytoskeleton. We are now focusing on dissection of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the potential regulatory roles of these modifications. In parallel we investigate the functional roles of tubulin modifications in cells, organism development and disease.

biochemistry / cell biology / mouse biology / microtubule cytoskeleton / posttranslational modifications

AbstractCarsten Janke

Carsten.Janke@curie.fr https://perso.curie.fr/Carsten.Janke/

Institut Curie, France

74

Srinivasa-Gopalan Sampathkumar

Disrupting the sugar-coat: Inhibition of mucin-type O-glycosylation of cell surface glycoproteins by analogues of N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc)‘Glycocalyx’ by virtue of being the outer-most contact on mammalian cell surface regulates many biological and immunological processes. Cell surface glycoproteins, including CD antigens, participate in cell-cell, cell-pathogen, and cell-matrix interactions. Particularly, mucin-type O-glycans (MTOG) present epitopes such as blood group antigens and sialyl-Lewis X. Delineating fundamental roles of glycosylation has been challenging owing to its inherent complexity and non-template driven biosynthesis. Develop-ment of small molecule inhibitors of glycan biosynthesis forms a powerful strategy for addressing structure-functional relationships. Biosynthesis of MTOG is initiated by the addition of N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc) to Ser/Thr to result in -GalNAc-S/T (Tn-antigen) which is further elaborated by other glycosyl transferases. Herein, we show that application of GalNAc analogues resulted in thiol-specific inhibition of MTOG in an antigen-selective and cell-type selective manner. Attenuation of cell- cell communication and cell migration via altering cell surface glycosylation might provide new avenues for treatment of auto-immune diseases and cancer metastasis.

Agarwal K, Kaul R, Garg M, Shajahan A, Jha SK, Sampathkumar S-G. 2013. Inhibition of mucin type O-glycosylation through metabolic procesing and incoporation of N-thioglycolyl-D-galactosamine peracetate (Ac5GalNTGc). J. Am. Chem. Soc. 135, 14189-14197.

Gupta G, Surolia A, Sampathkumar S-G. 2010. Lectin microarrays for glycomic analysis. OMICS 14, 419-436.

Sampathkumar S-G, Li AV, Jones MB, Sun Z, Yarema KJ. 2006. Metabolic installation of thiols in to sialic acid modulates adhesion and stem cell biology. Nat. Chem. Biol. 1, 149-152.

Our Laboratory of Chemical Glycobiology (CGB) at the National Institute of Immunology (NII) strives to harvest the power of synthetic carbohydrate- based small molecules to shine light on fundamental roles of glycosylation in biological processes. We design, synthesize, and develop carbohydrate analogues and investigate them for two contrasting applications. Firstly, we employ non-natural monosaccharide analogues to intercept, inhibit, and participate in the biosynthesis of glycans, with a goal to develop new avenues to manipulate cell migration in auto-immune diseases. Secondly, using a prodrug approach we aim to deliver carbohydrate analogs across the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) for metabolic incorporation in to glycans for selective tagging and identification with a goal to gain insight in to the role of glycoconjugates in development and diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). We take a multi-disciplinary approach with a team con- sisting of personnel from varying backgrounds such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, bioinformatics, pharmacology, and molecular biology.

National Institute of Immunology, IndiaGlycosylation / Metabolism / Inhibitors / Lectins / CD antigens

AbstractSrinivasa-Gopalan Sampathkumar

gopalan@nii.ac.in

76

Mahak Sharma

Understanding the mechanisms regulating vesicular trafficking to lysosomesHomotypic fusion and Protein Sorting (HOPS) complex is a multi-subunit tethering complex conserved from yeast to mammals that regulate endosome-lysosome fusion. The four subunits Vacuole Protein Sorting (Vps)11, Vps16, Vps18 and Vps33 form the core complex while Vps39 and Vps41 are the accessory complex subunits. We are currently investigating the mechanism by which HOPS complex is recruited to lysosomes and mediates late endosome- lysosome fusion. The importance of this complex is reflected by the fact that pathogens such as Myco-bacterium tuberculosis evade killing in the host lysosome by targeting HOPS subunits.

Lysosomal tra!cking, antigen presentation, and microbial killing are controlled by the Arf-like GTPase Arl8b, Immunity.

MICAL-L1 links EHD1 to tubular recycling endosomes and regulates receptor recycling, Molecular Biology of the Cell.

A role for EHD4 in the regulation of early endosomal transport, Tra!c.

The primary research interests of my lab focus on studying the molecular mechanisms regulating the tra!cking towards late endosomes and lysosomes. Lysosomes are organelles that receive and degrade internalized cargo from the endocytic and phagocytic membrane tra!cking pathways and intracellular sequestered cargo from autophagic pathway. Given that many diseases result from defects in the lysosomal tra!cking pathways and the normal functioning of the lysosome is critical for immunity against wide variety of pathogens, our research will answer a key question of how lysosomal tra!cking is regulated and identify the key molecular players involved in this process.

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, IndiaVesicular tra!cking / Small GTPases / Membranefusion /Lysosomes / Host-pathogen interaction

AbstractMahak Sharma

msharma@iisermohali.ac.in, mahek23@gmail.com

http://www.iisermohali.ac.in/html/faculty/mahak-sharma.html

78

Chittur Srikanth

Salmonella Typhimurium perturbs host sumo-machinery for invasion and inflammationThe gram negative, facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen Salmonella Typhimurium is one of the most frequent causes of acute gastroenteritis in humans. Moreover, Salmonellosis simulates certain autoimmune disorders such as ulcerative colitis clinically, histopathologically and radiologically. Diarrhea results from a complex cascade of cross-talk between the pathogenic bacterium, the host intestinal epithelium, the commensal microbiota and the immune system of the host. Several virulence factors of the bacteria modulate and rely on host signalling pathways. Our findings point at involvement of post-translational modification called SUMOylation in the pathogenesis of this disease. We conceptualize that understanding such novel biological phenomenon would allow us to dissect out aspects of novel infla- mmatory pathways that is yet to be documented.

Srikanth CV, Wall DM, Ana Maldonado-Contreras, Haining Shi, Daoguo Zhou, Zachary Demma, Mumy KL and McCormick BA. 2010. Salmonella pathogenesis and processing of secreted e!ectors by caspase- 3. Science, 330; 390-393.

Harrington L, Srikanth CV, Antony R, Rhee SJ, Mellor AL, Shi HN & Cherayil BJ. 2008. Deficiency of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase enhances commensal-induced antibody responses and protects against Citrobacterrodentium-induced colitis. Infect Immun. Jul; 76(7): 3045-53.

Harrington L, Srikanth CV, Antony R, Shi HN, Cherayil BJ. 2007. A role for natural killer cells in intestinal inflammation caused by infection with Salmonella entericaserovarTyphimurium.FEMS Immunological Medical Microbiology Nov;51(2):372-80.

Research in my lab is broadly directed at understanding the key events that cause inflammation during infection and auto-immune disorders. Uncontrolled inflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases as well as the development of cancers. We use Salmonella in cell culture and mouse system with the key objective to understand molecular mechanism underlying the observed inflammation.

Regional Centre for BiotechnologySalmonella-Host crosstalk/ Signalling/ Inflammatory diseases go gut

AbstractChittur Srikanth

cvsrikanth@rcb.res.inhttp://www.rcb.res.in/Chittur_Srikanth.html

80

poster83Poster Submissions

in alphabetical order

POSTER SUBMISSIONS

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In Alphabetical Order

Abhishek Sahasrabudhe, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Biology DivisionE: a.sahasrabudhe@students.iiserpune.ac.in

Amol Pohane,PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, (Department of Biological Sciences)AN INTRAMOLECULAR CROSS-TALK CONFERS HOST SPECIFICITY TO MYCOBACTERIUM PHAGE D29 ENDOLYSINE: amol@iiserb.ac.in

Anita Chacko, PostDocNational Centre for Biological Sciences118G POLYMORPHISM IN EXON-I OF OPRM1 GENE PROTECTS AGAINST CANCER: AHYPOTHESISE: anitac@ncbs.res.in, anicko19@gmail.com

Anjali Verma,PhD StudentJawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific ResearchCHARACTERIZATION OF C-kB BINDING MOTIF OF HIV-1 SUBTYPE C AND A FUNCTION ASSOCIATION BETWEEN C-kB

Bharat Parthasarathy,PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Edu-cation and Research, TrivandrumBODY CONDITION DEPENDENT DISPERSAL IN AN INBRED SOCIAL SPIDER E: bharat@iisertvm.ac.in

Chetana Bhaskarla,PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science (Department of Biochemistry)ROLE OF ATP-DEPENDENT PROTEASE LON DURING SODIUM SALICYLATE (NaSal) INDUCED STRESS IN ESCHERICHIA COLI.E: chetana@biochem.iisc.ernet.in

Darius Koester, PostDocNational Centre for Biological Sciences (Cellular Organisation and Signalling)DESIGN OF REMODELING ACTO-

AND PROXIMAL Sp1 SITEE: anjaliv@jncasr.ac.in

Anupam Sinha, PhD StudentCentre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (LAboratory of Computational Biology)EFFECT OF ALTERNATIVE SPLIC-ING ON THE DEGREE CENTRALITY OF NODES IN EUKARYOTIC PPI NETWORKSE: anupam.contact@gmail.com

Anuradha Pal, PhD StudentBirla Institute of Technology and Science, Hyderabad118G POLYMORPHISM IN EXON-I OF OPRM1 GENE PROTECTS AGAINST CANCER: AHYPOTHESISE: sunflower87smiley@gmail.com

Aparna Sherlekar, PhD Student Indian Institute of Science Educa-tion and Research, PuneINTERPLAY OF SYNDAPIN AND ACTIN-REMODELLING PROTEINS IN ESTABLISHMENT OF EPITHELI-LA CELL POLARITY IN DROSOPHI-LA EMBRYOE: aparnasherlekar@gmail.com

Ashwini Godbole, PostDocInstitute of Trans-disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology

SCIENTIFIC UNDERSTANDING OF AYURVEDA BY USING MODERN BIO-MEDICAL RESEARCH TOOLS E: ashwinisudatta@gmail.com

MYOSIN NETWORKS IN VITRO - A STEP TOWARDS A MINIMAL ACTIN CORTEX SYSTEME: darius@ncbs.res.in

Darshan Chandrashekar, PhD StudentInstitute of Bioinformatics and Applied BiotechnologyAN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO UNDERSTAND SELECTIVE USE OF GENES IN TISSUE OF INTEREST: E: sdarshan@ibab.ac.in

Darshan Marjadi, PostDocShree Ramkrishna Institute of Applied Sciences, Veer Narmard South Gujarat University, Surat, Gujarat, IndiaPRODUCTION OF BIODEGRAD-ABLE PLASTIC BY MICROOR-GANISMS: BIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH FOR OIL CONTAMI-NATED SITESE: darshworld@yahoo.com

Debjit Dutta, PostDocInstitute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative MedicineCHEMOSELECTIVE LIPOSOME FUSION FOR CELL-SURFACE ENGINEERING AND TISSUE STRUCTURE FORMATIONSE: debjitd@instem.res.in

Gajendra Azad, PhD Student Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (De-partment of Biological Sciences), Bhopal)

Himangshu Sonowal, PhD Student Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (Department of Biotechnology)E: himangshu@iitg.ernet.in

Imroze Khan, PostDocNational Centre for Biological SciencesPATTERNS OF GENOTYPIC AND PHENOTYPIC VARIATION ACROSS TRIBOLIUM BEETLE POPULATIONSE: imrozek@ncbs.res.in

Rap1 is required for main-taining cell wall integrity in budding yeast E: gajendra@iiserb.ac.in

Gajendradhar Dwivedi, PhD StudentIndian Institue of ScienceROLE OF DprA IN NATURAL TRANSFORMATION PATHWAY OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI E: gajendradhar85@gmail.com

Gregor P Jose, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Education and Research, KolkataCOMPARATIVE STUDIES ON AN-TI-BACTERIAL ACTION OF IONIC AND NANO COPPERE: gregor.jose@iiserkol.ac.in

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Jahnavi Joshi, PostDocNational Centre for Biological SciencesADAPTIVE RADIATIONS IN PAPILIO (MENELAIDES) SWAL-LOTAIL BUTTERFLIES OF THE INDO-AUSTRALIAN REGIONE: jahnavij@ncbs.res.in

Kaushiki Biswas, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Education and Research (Depart-ment of Biological Sciences)AXONAL SPREAD IS AN UNDER-LYING MECHANISM OF VIRUS INDUCED DEMYELINATIONE: kaushiki@iiserkol.ac.in

Konoragunta Omkar Babu, PhD StudentInstitute of Agri Biotechnology, UAS,DharwadMOLECULAR PHYLOGENY AND POPULATION GENETICS OF APIS CERANA, APIS DORSATA AND APIS FLOREA ACROSS ECORE-GIONS OF INDIAE: omkarbabu.k@gmail.com

Madhuja Samaddar, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science (Department of Biochemistry)MTHSP70 AND MITOCHONDRIAL DYSFUNCTION IN PARKINSON’S DISEASE: A YEAST MODELE: samaddar.madhuja@gmail.com

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Manish Grover Babu, PhD StudentIndian Institute of ScienceIDENTIFICATION OF AN EXPORT-ED HEAT SHOCK PROTEIN 70 IN PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUME: manish@biochem.iisc.ernet.in

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Nidhi Dey, PhD StudentIISER Mohali (Department of Biological Sciences)DISSECTING STEM CELLS AND NICHE CROSSTALK DURING DROSOPHILA HEMATOPOIESISE: nidhisharma@iisermohali.ac.in

Ujjwal Neogi, PostDocSt. John’s Research Institute (Hematology Research Unit)NEXT GENERATION SEQUENCING TO EVALUATE CO-RECEPTOR TROPISM IN HIV-1 SUBTYPE C-INFECTED CHILDRENE: ujjwalneogi@gmail.com

Vanika Gupta, PhD StudentIndian institute of Science Edu-cation and Research MohaliRAPID RESPONSE TO SELEC-TION AGAINST PSEUDOMONAS ENTOMOPHILA IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER WITHOUT MA-JOR LIFE-HISTORY TRADE-OFFE: w2niva@gmail.com

Wajid Waheed Bhat, PhD StudentCSIR-Indian Institute of Inte-grative Medicine (Department of Plant Biotechnology), Canal Road, Jammu, J&KMETABOLIC ENGINEERING OF PICROSIDE BIOSYNTHESIS IN HETEROLOGOUS HOSTSE: sklattoo@iiim.ac.in, wajid361@gmail.com

Raghavender Upadhyayula, PostDocNational Center for Biological SciencesCOMPUTATIONAL INVESTIGA-TION OF THE PEPTIDE-PROTEIN INTERACTION IN A.THALIANA INVOLVED IN INNATE IMMUNITY E: upadhyayulas@ncbs.res.in

Raghavender Iyappan, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science(De-partment of Biochemistry)IDENTIFICATION OF PHYSIOLOG-ICAL SUBSTRATE FOR THE DUAL SPECIFICITY SERINE/THREO-NINE/TYROSINE PROTEIN KINASE FROM ARABIDOPSIS E: iyappan@biochem.iisc.ernet.in

Roshan Thakur, PhD StudentIISc,BangaloreEVIDENCE FOR THE ROLE OF MY-COBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS RECG HELICASE IN DNA REPAIR AND RECOMBINATIONE: roshan@biochem.iisc.ernet.in

Sharath Narayanan, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchNOVEL REGULATOR OF CELL CYCLE IN CAULOBACTER CRES-CENTUSE: sharathnarayanan@iisertvm.ac.in

Shiladitya Mitra, PhD StudentCentre for Cellular and Molecular BiologyFUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF WDR13 KNOCKOUT IN BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR OF MICEE: smitra@ccmb.res.in

Sreeramaiah N. Gangappa, PostDocNational Institute of Technology, Durgapur, West BengalROLE OF BBX25 IN ARABIDOPSIS SEEDLING PHOTOMORPHOGEN-ESISE: ngsreeram@gmail.com

Sudarkodi Sukumar, PhD StudentNational University of SingaporeLIPIDOMICS DISCRIMINATES MY-COBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS LINEAGES USING MYCOLIC ACID PROFILING AND HIGHLIGHTS SUBSTANTIAL ADAPTATION OF MYCOLIC ACID METABOLISM IN INFECTED MACROPHAGESE: sudarkodi.sukumar@gmail.com

Padma Priya Ponnan, PostDocIndian Instiute of Science(De-partment of Physics, Biochem-istry)IN VIVO CHARACTERIZATION OF HEAT SHOCK PROTEIN 60 FROM PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUME: biopadmapriya@gmail.com

Prashanthi Karyala, PostDocIndian Institute of Science (De-partment of Biochemistry)MINING LARGE-SCALE RESPONSE NETWORKS REVEALS ‘TOPMOST ACTIVITIES’ IN TUBERCULOSISE: karyalaprashanthi@gmail.com

Puja Singh, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Science Edu-cation and Research, Thiruva-nanthapuram (School

of Biology)TACC3 IS REQUIRED FOR STABILIZING y-TUBULIN RING COMPLEX AT CENTROSOMEE: puja@iisertvm.ac.in

Sudarshan Gadadhar, PostDocIndian Institute of Science (De-partment of Biochemistry)MY PARTNER, MY GUIDE: INSIGHTS INTO INTRACELLULAR TRAFFICKING OF ABRIN AND ITS IMMUNOTOXINE: sudarshan@biochem.iisc.ernet.in

Sukanta Jash, PhD StudentIndian Institute of Chemical Biology ( Molecular and Human Genetics div)CROSSTALK BETWEEN OXYGEN SENSING (HIF1a-DELTA-NOTCH AXIS) AND ATP SENSING (AM-PK-MTOR) PATHWAYS IN THE RE-GENERATIVE PROLIFERATION OF MUSCLE STEM CELLS INDUCED BY RNA MEDIATED MITOCHONDRI-AL REJUVENATIONE: sukantajash.iicb@gmail.com

SuvrajitSaha PhD StudentNational Centre for Biological SciencesACTIVITY DRIVEN SPATIOTEM-PORAL PATTERNING OF CELL SURFACE MOLECULESE: suvra17@gmail.com , suvra-jits@ncbs.res.in

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Conference ChairsSusan M. GasserAngela NietoMichael RethEric Westhof

An anniversary conference

Plenary SpeakersRuedi AebersoldDavid BaulcombeHans CleversMax D. CooperRichard DurbinElaine FuchsMaria JasinWolf Reik

concurrent sessions covering the latest research in the life sciences

30

Keynote SpeakersCatherine Dulac

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Text and Copy: Nandini Rajamani RobinDesign: Priyanka Singh, www.priyankakalha.comCitation: Young Scientist Networking Meeting 2013: An EMBO-IndiBioScience Initiative© Creative Commons license, 2013

IndiaBioScience National Centre for Biological Science (NCBS) Campus, Bangalore 560 065 Karnataka, India

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