Molecular Biology & Genomics
A number of initiatives in functional genomics/proteomics are underway in the department. Research efforts focus on new concepts, methodologies, and genetic materials to produce:
- New germplasm with pest resistance traits for plant breeding.
- New pest resistance genes identified, cloned, sequenced, and characterized to genetically transform crop plants.
- Innovative molecular and genetic tools and technologies for pest management.
- New knowledge and understanding of vulnerable systems (physiological, biochemical, genetic and behavioral) in pest species.
- Better understanding of pest population dynamics and genetics.
- New information on the interface between genetics and insect behavior.
- Better understanding of the molecular bases of caste determination in termites.
Much of this effort is characterized by MPRINT, the Molecular Plant Resistance to Insects and Nematodes Team, a consortium of interdisciplinary scientists led by entomologists that share an interest in a combination of molecular tools and skills focused broadly on problems related to plant resistance to insects and nematodes.
Functional Genomics of
the Insect Digestive System |
CystX |
Hessian Fly Resistance |
| Population Genetics |
| Resistance Management |
| Behavioral Genetics |
| Caste Determination |
Faculty & Staff |
Grzegorz Buczkowski
Research Specialist, Urban Pest Management |
Barry Pittendrigh
Associate Professor, Molecular Biology |
Virginia Ferris
Professor, Nematology, Systematics and Molecular Biology |
Brandi Schemerhorn
Assistant Professor (Adjunct) USDA-ARS |
Catherine Hill
Assistant Professor, Vector Biology |
Rich Shukle
Assistant Professor (Adjunct) USDA-ARS Research Entomologist, Hessian Fly Genetics |
Greg Hunt
Associate Professor, Behavioral Genetics and Honey Bee Extension Entomology |
Jeff Stuart
Professor, Insect Molecular Genetics |
Larry Murdock
Professor, Insect Physiology, International Crop Protection |
Christie Williams
Assistant Professor (Adjunct) USDA-ARS Research Molecular Biologist, Plant-Insect Interaction Genetics |
Jon Neal
Associate Professor, Toxicology |
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Title |
Description |
Contact |
Ixodes scapularis Genome Project (IGP) |
The Ixodes scapularis Genome Project (IGP) is a collaborative effort to develop the first large scale genomic analysis of a medically significant tick, the Lyme disease tick, Ixodes scapularis . The IGP is a partnership between the international tick research community, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Broad Institute, and The Institute for Genomic Research (TIGR). The goal of the IGP is to generate I. scapularis genome sequence data as a resource for the scientific community. To be successful, the IGP must be a community based effort - we hope you will be interested to participate and contribute to the project! |
Cate Hill |
Host-Plant Resistance
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The Host-Plant Resistance program utilizes molecular genetics, genomics and proteomics approaches to investigate interactions between wheat and its main insect pest, the Hessian fly. We have identified molecular markers for new wheat resistance genes that are useful in plant breeding. We are also identifying novel wheat genes and proteins that respond to larval feeding and play a role in induced resistance.
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Christie Williams
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Honey Bee Behavioral Genetics and Genomics
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The Honey Bee Behavioral Genetics and Genomics program is interested in genetic influences on honey bee behavior, and the resistance of bees to parasitic mites. Our lab made detailed maps of the honey bee chromosomes to identify genes that influence honey bee defensive behavior, and other traits. We study the interactions between genes, environment and individuals in a social insect. We also have a breeding program to increase the resistance of bees to Varroa mites.
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Greg Hunt
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MPRINT
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Faculty in Purdue University's Department of Entomology, together with members of other departments in Purdue Agriculture, collaborate as a multidisciplinary team whose goal is to foster pest resistance for crop improvement using modern molecular-biological and genetic tools. |
Larry Murdock |
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