ABSTRACT:
Since 2005, advances in next-generation sequencing technologies have revolutionized biological science. The analysis of environmental DNA through the use of specific gene markers such as species-specific DNA barcodes has been a key application of next-generation sequencing technologies in ecological and environmental research. Access to parallel, massive amounts of sequencing data, as well as subsequent improvements in read length and throughput of different sequencing platforms, is leading to a better representation of sample diversity at a reasonable cost. New technologies are being developed rapidly and have the potential to dramatically accelerate ecological and environmental research. The fast pace of development and improvements in next-generation sequencing technologies can reflect on broader and more robust applications in environmental DNA research. Here, we review the advantages and limitations of current next-generation sequencing technologies in regard to their application for environmental DNA analysis.

Please find the full article here.

ABSTRACT:

Biological monitoring has failed to develop from simple binary assessment outcomes of the impacted/unimpacted type, towards more diagnostic frameworks, despite significant scientific effort over the past fifty years. It is our assertion that this is largely because of the limited information content of biological samples processed by traditional morphology-based taxonomy, which is a slow, imprecise process, focused on restricted groups of organisms. We envision a new paradigm in ecosystem assessment, which we refer to as ‘Biomonitoring 2.0’. This new schema employs DNA-based identification of taxa, coupled with high-throughput DNA sequencing on next-generation sequencing platforms. We discuss the transformational nature of DNA-based approaches in biodiversity discovery and ecosystem assessment and outline a path forward for their future widespread application.

Please find the full article here.

Taking place between October 12 – 14, 2011, this workshop will feature talks from:

Eduardo Eyras, CRG Barcelona, Spain
Michele Morgante, IGA and University of Udine, Italy
Antonio Costanzo, University of Roma “Tor Vergata”, Italy
Massimiliano Gentile, CSC, Finland
Mehrdad Hajibabaei, University of Guelph, Canada

This workshop will provide information updates in NGS technologies as well as applications and data analysis strategies. There will be 5 keynote lectures, oral presentations, poster sessions and round table discussions.

Please visit the workshop website for more information.

Researchers at the University of Guelph who are striving to find solutions for some of today’s pressing global issues — biodiversity conservation, clean water, physical and mental health ailments — have received nearly $700,000 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tmy6yR4JVFM

University of Guelph integrative biology professor Mehrdad Hajibabaei has received $3 million to test DNA technology at Canada’s largest national park that could see a prevention of habitat loss.

Guelph Mercury article: Guelph professor to use DNA technology to prevent habitat loss

Using Canada’s largest national park as his laboratory, a University of Guelph professor will test cutting-edge DNA technology that could change how we monitor and protect the environment.

University of Guelph news release: Prof Gets $3-Million Grant, Aims to Prevent Habitat Loss