SymBirth:Entwicklung der Geburt eines künstlichen Symbionten

Research question/hypothesis
I want to address the hitherto obscure key genomic and metabolic factors behind the onset of
obligate symbiotic associations, through the rare development of an animal-microbe experimental
system.
Intended approach and research design
I aim to trigger the birth of a new obligate symbiosis in a leech, by replacing the naturally-occuring
symbiont by a free-living relative of the same molecular species.
Expected results
If successful, the project will result in a highly promising, tractable, and modifiable symbiotic
experimental system. Otherwise, we will at least untangle the yet unknown routes for vertical
transmission of microbes in leeches.