Asian elephants are under pressure in the wild. In the last three generations, their numbers have declined by 50 percent. In this project, Bosse and her colleagues will therefore investigate elephant genetic health. They will use the latest developments in pangenomics (across the entire set of genes within a species).
The researchers will analyze the current state of the elephant's genetic health. For example, in which populations are there signs of inbreeding? Where are harmful mutations occurring that can cause inherited diseases? These processes can cause elephant populations to die out faster locally. Furthermore, the scientists are using models to predict how these populations will fare in the future as their environment changes. Possibly there is less available habitat. They may also have to adapt (genetically) to a new environment. The question is whether they can, with the current set of genes in the population.
Genetic rescue
In addition, Bosse and her colleagues investigate the dangers and opportunities of so-called genetic rescue, the exchange of animals between different populations to introduce new blood into a population that is under pressure. They do this using the latest genomic techniques. This allows them to see if animals are a good match at the dna level, increasing diversity. On the other hand, if animals are matched at the dna level or too different, it can have a negative effect on the health of the population.
'I hope to gain insight into the genetic compatibility between elephant populations and thus contribute to better management in the wild,' Bosse says. 'For example, think about which fragmented populations need to be reconnected. More broadly, I hope to develop a more generic method of using genomics to assess the dangers and opportunities of genetic exchange for critically endangered species.'
Bosse is working with wildlife organizations and with Blijdorp, European studbook keeper of Asian elephants, to better understand the situation in the wild and better manage the European breeding program. In 2023, she spoke about 'dna matchmaking' in elephants on the Dutch popular science platform Universiteit van Nederland.
NWO Talent Program
The Dutch Research Council (NWO) Talent Program gives researchers the freedom to conduct their own research based on creativity and passion. The NWO Talent Program stimulates innovation and curiosity. Free research contributes to and prepares us for tomorrow's society. This is why NWO is committed to a diversity of scientists, domains and backgrounds. Vidi, together with the Veni and Vici grants, is part of the NWO Talent Program. Researchers receive a maximum of 850,000 euros.
NWO selects researchers based on the scientific quality and innovative nature of the research proposal, the scientific and/or societal impact of the proposed project, and the quality of the researcher. Read more about the VU researchers who received a Vidi grant.
