Expressions of Intent for International Polar Year 2007-2008 Activities

Expression of Interest Details

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF POLAR ANISAKIDAE  (Anisakidae molecular key)

Outline
Species belonging to the subfamily Anisakinae are, in their development, associated with aquatic invertebrates and fish as intermediate and paratenic hosts and with mammals and piscivorous birds as the definitive hosts. The parasites in question are frequently of a considerable economic and medical importance. Correct identification of those nematodes, regardless of developmental stage, is crucial for diagnostic and epidemiological reasons. Individual parasites are frequently identified based on their morphology, host, pathologic effects they produce, and geographic location. However, those criteria are often insufficient for identification, particularly with respect to eggs and larvae. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR), i.e., replication of the target DNA fragments as well as analysis of the amplified genome areas constitute an alternative solution of problems related to species identification of the parasites. Due to the ease of isolation, a relatively high evolution rate, and linear heredity without recombination, the mitochondrial DNA is a useful marker in studies on within- or between-population variability. It is intended to find evidence for the existence of separate populations within the selected Anisakinae nematode species. Identification of different populations may prove helpful in explaining a number of epidemiological problems related to parasitic diseases of animals because the genetic structure of parasitic nematode populations involves numerous implications for evolutionary processes, such as adaptation to host’s immune mechanisms. The main problem is how polar population of Anisakid parasites can differ from the European population of anisakids found in sea mammals (seals and small whales) as mature and in fish as larvae. Different host – parasite interactions can affect host populations and lower its resilience to anthropogenic factors. In addition, the project proposed has a potential of providing an answer to certain questions related to the taxonomic status of some nematode species; it should also aid in nematode species identification based on DNA analysis. Results obtained so far with allozymatic assays and DNA analyses concern about 30 adult and larval nematode species; however, there is no constant criterion useful in comparing different data sets. The project is aimed at developing a robust identification key with which to unequivocally identify population’s specific for various hosts or geographical regions.

What significant advance(s) in relation to the IPY themes and targets can be anticipated from this project?
We plan to use new molecular techniques, which can improve the studies of anisakids. Proposed methods will allow to identify and to determine the phylogenetic position of parasitic nematodes of mammals, birds and sea mammals. The obtained results should allow finishing the molecular key for main group of Anisakidae including sibling species complexes (Anisakis and Contracaecum). It will allow also monitoring of ways of cetaceans and sea mammals migrations in Arctic regions under the influence of climate changes.

What international collaboration is involved in this project?

FIELD ACTIVITY DETAILS

Geographical location(s) for the proposed field activities:
Samples will be collected from both Polar regions (Arctic and Antarctic).

Approximate timeframe(s) for proposed field activities:
Arctic: 07/05– 09/05      04/06 –09/06      04/07 – 09/07
Antarctic: 01/06 – 03/06      01/07 – 03/07      

Significant facilities will be required for this project:
Polish Polar Station, Hornsund, Svalbard, Norway Ships: Oceania, Institute of Oceanology PAS, Sopot Horyzont II, Polish Marine Academy, Gdynia

Will the project leave a legacy of infrastructure?
No

How is it envisaged that the required logistic support will be secured?
Consortium
Another national polar operator
National agency
Own support

Has the project been "endorsed" at a national or international level?
1. Accepted by Polish National Committee for 4-IPY 2007-2008 2. University of Gdansk

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND STRUCTURE

Is the project a short-term expansion (over the IPY 2007-2008 timeframe) of an existing plan, programme or initiative or is it a new autonomous proposal?


Continuum of studies realized in the frame of national science projects realized in 1999-2002.

How will the project be organised and managed?
Samples will be collected on both Polar regions using accessible logistic support (Polish Polar stations and ships). Samples will be stored in 70% ethanol and analysed in the laboratories at the University of Gdansk and national co-operators laboratories.

What are the initial plans of the project for addressing the education, outreach and communication issues outlined in the Framework document?
It is envisaged that the results obtained will be sufficient to complete two Ph.D. theses (realisation one of them is advanced) and several scientific publications. Results will be presented also during scientific parasitological meetings in Poland and abroad.

What are the initial plans of the project to address data management issues (as outlined in the Framework document?
The obtained data, including the molecular key will be published in an international journal and accessible for scientists.

How is it proposed to fund the project?
We are applying for support to national funding agencies.

Is there additional information you wish to provide?
None

PROPOSER DETAILS

Pro  Antoni Jerzy Rokicki
Department of Invertebrate Zoology
University of Gdansk
GDYNIA
81-378
Poland

Tel: 48 58 660-16-18
Mobile: no
Fax: 48 58 660-16-30
Email:

Other project members and their affiliation