ROSELH

Reactive Oxygen Species and the Evolution of Life Histories

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The target of this proposal is ageing and its association with reproduction, immunity and behaviour. This is an area of biology that has intrigued every generation since Aristotle (c. 300 BC). We assess how free radicals (reactive oxygen species), so often identified as factors of ageing and immune disorders, exert selection on living organisms and whether resistance (and defence) towards free radicals may drive evolution of ageing in the wild. In particular, we study (i) how free radicals, the defence systems associated with them and the reproductive and the immune system interact to shape life history trade-offs, (ii) how free radicals impact on survival in the wild and, (iii) how epigenetic factors such as maternal hormones contribute to the formation of behavioural phenotypes (personalities) with different free radical profiles. This project integrates field studies and laboratory experiments using two uniquely suited model species (the Australian Painted dragon lizard and the zebra finch) and combines them with state-of-the-art molecular techniques to investigate variation in free radical production and defences. In spite of excellent work in the laboratory, this is one of the first attempts to study free radicals in the 'real world' and will extend Europe’s excellent reputation in evolutionary biology.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Oxidative stress, or damage due to free radicals, is a hot topic in science due to its role in cancer, infertility and ageing. Recently, EU-funded researchers conducted a unique animal study that sheds light on the process.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

The project, known as 'Reactive oxygen species and the evolution of life histories' (ROSELH), was one of the first attempts at studying two different species in both their natural setting and in the laboratory. The species studied were the Australian painted dragon and a zebra finch (a small songbird).

The first was chosen due to its short lifespan, high reproductivity and distinct colouration (which diminishes with age). These characteristics allowed researchers to study the age-related effects of reproduction and immunity.

They found an association and a positive correlation between colouration and free radical exposure. In addition, higher testosterone levels denoted an age-related colour loss in males; in females, reproduction increased metabolic activity, which in turn increases free radical levels.

To further investigate the influence of free radicals during early development on physiological and behavioural changes in adulthood, researchers studied the zebra finch. Their aim was to confirm the formation of long-term free radical characteristics.

Exactly how free radicals influence organism health and evolution is still in contention. However, this project has provided new insights into the role of oxidative stress in evolutionary biology, opening up new avenues for interdisciplinary research.