Lessons from a 2-Hub Life-Science Training Course: From Heidelberg to Bangalore and Beyond

Technologies are rapidly evolving in the life sciences and other STEM areas. Advanced hands-on practical courses are key for life-science researchers to stay ahead of the game. Although the Covid-19 pandemic propelled/accelerated the transformation in remote training opportunities, it is clear that training in molecular biology methodologies requires and greatly benefits from hands-on face-to-face courses. Here we present a novel 2-hub course format, with teaching of cutting-edge technologies simultaneously in Germany (EMBL Heidelberg) and India (BLiSC in Bangalore). The format combines active-based learning on a scientific case study with collaborative exercises and networking that foster scientific exchange. We describe the digital technologies utilised in course design and delivery, and the multi-layered planning phase. Analysis of the participant and trainer feedback questionnaires demonstrates the benefits and challenges of the 2-hub format and illustrates the success of the course. The concept allows us to broaden our reach, while reducing overall CO2 emission in comparison to a 1-hub course. We show that thanks to digital tools and collaboration of dedicated organisers, we can provide conceptual design and create sophisticated active-learner training opportunities with world-wide reach

Large-scale comparative analysis of cytogenetic markers across Lepidoptera

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) allows identification of particular chromosomes and their rearrangements. Using FISH with signal enhancement via antibody amplification and enzymatically catalysed reporter deposition, we evaluated applicability of universal cytogenetic markers, namely 18S and 5S rDNA genes, U1 and U2 snRNA genes, and histone H3 genes, in the study of the karyotype evolution in moths and butterflies. Major rDNA underwent rather erratic evolution, which does not always reflect chromosomal changes. In contrast, the hybridization pattern of histone H3 genes was well conserved, reflecting the stable organisation of lepidopteran genomes. Unlike 5S rDNA and U1 and U2 snRNA genes which we failed to detect, except for 5S rDNA in a few representatives of early diverging lepidopteran lineages. To explain the negative FISH results, we used quantitative PCR and Southern hybridization to estimate the copy number and organization of the studied genes in selected species. The results suggested that their detection was hampered by long spacers between the genes and/or their scattered distribution. Our results question homology of 5S rDNA and U1 and U2 snRNA loci in comparative studies. We recommend the use of histone H3 in studies of karyotype evolution

Drivers of karyotype evolution in Lepidoptera

Research of lepidopteran karyotypes and their evolution has been challenging for decades due to their many peculiar characteristics. However, this field has advanced thanks to modern cytogenetic techniques and sequencing technologies. We combined explored possibilities how to detect chromosomal rearrangements, and cytogenetic and genomic approaches to explore evolutionary forces shaping karyotypes of non-model Lepidoptera including representatives of early diverging species. Results obtained in the present thesis point to a possible role of satellite DNA and sexual antagonistic selection in mobilisation of rDNA and sex chromosome turnover, respectively

Large-scale comparative analysis of cytogenetic markers across Lepidoptera

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) allows identification of particular chromosomes and their rearrangements. Using FISH with signal enhancement via antibody amplification and enzymatically catalysed reporter deposition, we evaluated applicability of universal cytogenetic markers, namely 18S and 5S rDNA genes, U1 and U2 snRNA genes, and histone H3 genes, in the study of the karyotype evolution in moths and butterflies. Major rDNA underwent rather erratic evolution, which does not always reflect chromosomal changes. In contrast, the hybridization pattern of histone H3 genes was well conserved, reflecting the stable organisation of lepidopteran genomes. Unlike 5S rDNA and U1 and U2 snRNA genes which we failed to detect, except for 5S rDNA in a few representatives of early diverging lepidopteran lineages. To explain the negative FISH results, we used quantitative PCR and Southern hybridization to estimate the copy number and organization of the studied genes in selected species. The results suggested that their detection was hampered by long spacers between the genes and/or their scattered distribution. Our results question homology of 5S rDNA and U1 and U2 snRNA loci in comparative studies. We recommend the use of histone H3 in studies of karyotype evolution. Introductio