Jonathan Fenn
PhD Researcher

Jonathan Fenn

Tiny Molecules, Big Impacts

microRNA Evolution Comparative Genomics Life History Traits Reproductive Biology Convergent Evolution Mammals
Jonathan is investigating the evolution of microRNAs (miRNAs) — tiny regulatory molecules which show huge diversity across the animal kingdom and can have profound impacts on the evolution and diversification of phenotypic traits.

miRNA Gain, Loss & Life History Traits

By looking at the genomes of hundreds of animal species, Jonathan is aiming to better understand how the gain and loss of miRNA genes is associated with a variety of life history traits, and whether they can help to explain patterns of convergent trait evolution across clades.

Mammalian Reproduction & Clinical Relevance

One area of particular focus in Jonathan’s work is the evolution of miRNA genes in mammals, and their association with reproductive traits. The genomes of eutherian mammals are characterised by a huge diversity of miRNAs, many of which are common biomarkers for a number of reproductive pathologies in humans and livestock species. By investigating which miRNAs are evolutionarily linked to diversity in reproductive phenotypes across species, we can discern new miRNA candidates for clinical investigation.

Ancestral reconstruction of placenta shapes across eutherian mammals with miRNA gene births

Figure: Ancestral reconstruction of placenta shapes across eutherian mammals, highlighting the birth of three miRNA genes strongly associated with the cotyledonary placental phenotype (highlighted in yellow).