Molecular Lab

The MMNS Molecular Laboratory is an independent program focused on conservation based questions relating to Mississippi's flora and fauna. The program fully integrates with the MMNS Research and Collections Program to complement research needs across all taxonomic disciplines (i.e., mammals, herpetology, ornithology, ichthyology, invertebrates and botany), and provides molecular analytical technology to address systematic and population genetic questions.

Contact Charles Knight

Facilities
The molecular lab is functional with a thermocycler (Techne Co.), Licor Sequencer, mini-gel electrophoresis system with ultra-violet luminescence for viewing ethidium bromide stained gels. Additional equipment and materials include a micro-centrifuge, a heat block, and ultra-cold freezer. Software for analyzing molecular data includes (but is not limited to) Sequencher for aligning DNA sequence data and PAUP for running phylogenetic algorithms. 

Current Research Projects

• Molecular analysis of the Pearl darter (Percina aurora) and potential surrogate darter species for assessment of propagation program.
• Molecular systematics, phylogeography and population genetics of Fundulus dispar and Fundulus blairae

 Current Lab Activities

• Development of a database that details the list of tissue holdings at MMNS for obtaining DNA. This database is currently limited to fish tissue and contains over 1200 lots of 200 species ETOH preserved/frozen tissue available for DNA extraction.
• Work with architects and building planners for the development of a dedicated molecular laboratory at the MMNS.
• Network with other regional and national government agencies and academicians for information and tissue sharing. Sharing of tissue for DNA analysis has thus far included the following institutions:
• • University of Southern Mississippi
  • University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
  • North Carolina State Museum of Natural Sciences
  • Georgia Natural Heritage Program
  • North Carolina Wildlife Commission
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Kansas
  • University of West Virginia
  • St. Louis University 

Proposed Future Research Projects

• Population genetic analysis of Black bears, Ursus americanus, in Mississippi.
• Molecular systematics, phylogeography and population genetics of Nerodia, water snakes in Mississippi. 

Future Lab Activities
More fully integrate with the MMNS Research and Collections Program to complement research needs across all taxonomic disciplines (i.e., mammals, herpetology, ornithology invertebrates and botany). Molecular analytical technology that address systematic and population genetic questions is a powerful tool, providing data needed for the successful management of threatened and endangered species.

Future Scope
Recognize and seize the unique opportunity to serve as an on-hands educational facility connecting applied conservation-based research with environmental education for Mississippi and the local Jackson Community. With forethought and the provision of resources, the MMNS Molecular Laboratory can significantly provide a previously unavailable research/educational experience that highlights the use of molecular analysis for conservation of the natural world.