The main area of research comprises genomic studies on South American Camelid species. We focus on the composition and structure of the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes of wild guanaco and vicuña, as well as the domestic species llama and alpaca. Our findings have provided original contributions to the knowledge on nuclear DNA biophysical features, the organization and variation of mitochondrial DNA, and the evolutionary characteristics involved in Camelid adaptation to hypoxic environment. We are also developing nuclear and mitochondrial genetic markers which are currently used in the survey of the genetic diversity of Camelid populations from Argentine Patagonia and Puna. Our results are transferred to specialists and consultants involved in programs for breeding and sustainable management of the species.
Our group is also developing research studies on the variability of human sexual chromosomes. The analysis of X and Y chromosome molecular markers provides relevant information on the origin and evolution of human populations. In this regard, allelic frequency and mutation rates of sexual chromosomes from South American Caucasian and Native populations are studied.
Furthermore, X and Y haplotypes are employed for paternity analyses and identification of criminal evidence. These analyses are carried out in the Genetic Identification Unit of our Laboratory, under the STAN program coordinated by CONICET..
Staff
ARBELETCHE de VIDAL RIOJA, Lidia Beatriz, Investigador Principal CONICET, Jefe de Laboratorio[ view complete curriculum vitae ]
CATANESI, Cecilia Inés , Investigador Adjunto CONICET
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DI ROCCO, Florencia , Investigador Asistente CIC PBA
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SILBESTRO, Miriam Beatriz, Personal de Apoyo - Técnico CONICET
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DAVERIO, María Silvana , Becario Doctoral CICPBA
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LÓPEZ SOTO, Eduardo Javier, Becario Doctoral CONICET
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GLESMANN, Laura Ángela , Concurrente ad honorem bajo la dirección de la Dra. Cecilia Catanesi
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