Marine Rhythms of Life

Background: An interdisciplinary team of the University of Vienna and the Max F. Perutz Laboratories is on track to unravel how monthly clocks can function on a molecular level and impact on reproduction and regeneration of the marine bristleworm Platynereis dumerilii. Currently no proteome data exist for Platynereis dumerilii.

Methods and Models: Molecular profiling (I, II) and targeted analyses (III). Potential rhythmic variations in concentration of melatonin and other metabolites are determined by ultra-sensitive targeted quantification methods. Furthermore, the involvement of regulatory enzymes is investigated by in depth proteome profiling.

Aims: Identification of molecular clocks based on rhythmic variation of the concentration of melatonin and other metabolites in relation to lunar phases. Establishment of proteome profiles of Platynereis dumerilii and proteome alterations dependent on reproduction and regeneration state.

Collaboration partners and funding:

  • Dr. Florian Raible, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Vienna
  • Dr. Kristin Teßmar-Raible, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Vienna

This project is funded by the University of Vienna (Research platform "Marine Rhythms of Life")