Genomics of tree adaptation

Description

In this project, we are using state-of-the-art genomic approaches to improve our understanding of the importance of gene regulation in the context of forest productivity and adaptation. This project is providing key scientific components for two internationally recognised initiatives that are funded by Genome Canada as well as the Arborea and Treenomix projects.

In collaboration with the Arborea project, we have improved our understanding of the gene function related to forest productivity and adaptation as well as wood quality traits. For the Treenomix project the overall approach is rather similar but the focus is on forest health. The Treenomix team uses genomic tools to identify the genetic blueprints in spruce that determine features such as resistance against forest insect pests and adaptation to climate change. For both projects our approach is complementary to a gene mapping-based strategy seeking to identify genomic regions (and eventually genes) associated with the targeted traits.

The general objectives of the project are the following:

• A better understanding of the gene regulatory processes will speed-up associations between DNA markers.
• Validating (functionally) these markers will make them more reliable.
• Improving technology transfer to our clients (e.g. Irving, ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec, BC Ministry of Forests and Range).