Seminarium POB1: dr Taras Oleksyk
This coming Wednesday, 18 December, the POB1 lecture will be given by Dr Taras Oleksyk, from Oakland University, USA. Dr Oleksyk is an expert in genomics, evolutionary genetics and comparative genomics. He is particularly interested in the mechanisms of genome evolution and its implications for human adaptation and disease. He is currently conducting research in Ukraine to discover new genetic factors that influence the development and pathology of type 1 diabetes (T1D), which may help to predict the disease, identify therapies to delay progression and/or improve metabolic control in people living with T1D. He is also interested in the evolution and conservation of endangered species. He is actively involved in research focusing on genome assembly, variant analysis and selection scanning in wild and domesticated animals.
More information about our guest speaker can be found at:
https://www.oakland.edu/biology/directory/oleksyk/
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=hIzkk-gAAAAJ&hl=en
The seminar will be held remotely using the Zoom platform, link to the event.
Filling Genomic Gaps in the Forgotten Parts of Europe: Ukraine's T1D Research Initiative
This talk will outline our strategic efforts to address the global challenge of "genomic deserts," regions that lack sufficient genomic data, which hampers the development of fair and unbiased health solutions. We have established a platform that not only aggregates but also updates whole-genome data from a variety of international and national genomic projects. This platform has allowed us to analyze global trends in whole-genome sequencing and identify significant disparities in data availability. These findings underscore the critical need for an inclusive approach in genomic studies that integrates underrepresented populations. In Ukraine, where resources for genome research are limited, we have built the necessary infrastructure and cultivated local expertise in genomics to address these disparities. Our ongoing research focuses on uncovering the genetic determinants of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), with a special emphasis on rare and local variants that are often overlooked in broader studies. Through a comprehensive genome-wide association study (GWAS), we are mapping genetic diversity and identifying novel genetic factors linked to T1D. This project has led to the development of a T1D Research Network, a local biobank, and the sequencing of 20,000 exomes, all contributing to an open-access genetic database that fosters global collaboration. Preliminary analyses highlight the significant role of HLA haplotypes and other genes, reinforcing the utility of our cohort for further research. This initiative not only enhances our understanding of T1D but also aims to create a more equitable landscape in genomic research, ultimately improving disease prevention and treatment strategies through better representation of human genetic diversity.
