DNA Zoo through Augmented Reality
Did you know?
Globally over a quarter of known species are threatened with extinction. We are losing animals at the alarming rate of one species every 6 hours. We are in the midst of Earths sixth mass extinction with currently around 1 million species at risk of extinction. To understand extinction risk, we need to develop a genetic framework reference dataset of high-quality genomes that will serve as a foundation for understanding relationships between species, including recently extinct species to their environment and to each other. The DNA molecule, is the baseline blueprint of life code.
What is a genome
A reference genome can be thought of as a digital DNA sequence database, providing a standard baseline genetic resource for the species. In order to build such a resource, genetic material must be obtained and information sequenced. During this process, the four base pairs or letter codes (A, C, T, G) which constitute the DNA of the species are recorded. Once obtained, this information is assembled in an attempt to reflect the true DNA sequence of the species. This process can be likened to a jigsaw puzzle consisting of millions or billions of pieces many of which are very similar to each other. The genome represents a valuable resource for conservation efforts. It contains positional information and sequence data for genes such as those associated with immunity, mate choice, learning and behaviour that are likely to have important fitness consequences and are therefore crucial for local adaptation. The genome helps us understand the genetic basis of what makes vulnerable species ecologically and genetically unique. For example, comparative genomic approaches can assist in the study of disease threats that arise from losses in genetic diversity (such as the quokka and koala) by providing a greater understanding of the origin of diseases and the response of populations. Results can then be used to design strategies for disease treatment or management.
The DNA Zoo
DNA Zoo is a watershed initiative, leading the world in rapid generation and release of high-quality genomic resources. DNA Zoo Australia at University of Western Australia is the lead Australian node of a global project, the DNA Zoo consortium. The DNA Zoo consortium was founded as a not-for-profit organization on Nov 2nd, 2018 at Houston, TX, USA, with UWA as the lead Australian node established on 4th June 2019. DNA Zoo Australia is dedicated to generating and sharing knowledge about these remarkable Australian species, unpacking and documenting in extraordinary detail at their DNA level. Working with leading scientists in genomics, evolutionary biology and environmental research to describe the richness of the natural world, and to understand the next steps in documenting the complex legacy of millions of years of evolution on this continent.
We NEED you!
To build a platform consisting of an augmented reality (AR) mobile app connected to a web-based CMS. The app will use markers to render textual descriptions and 3D models of molecules. These descriptions and models will be served from the CMS.
The platform will, ideally, have the capacity to convert the 3D DNA atomistic models, which will be in xyz file type, into a 3D model type such as fbx, .obj, . stl. Technical and domain support for this feature will be available from DNA Zoo, Microsoft Australia working with Brian Carter [Azure specialist]. The prototype will be using as the trigger the STAR WA iconic species Quokka. The Rottnest Island collaborative network with DNA Zoo Australia will launch the app to the public on the app stores during the Quokka birthday month September 2021.
The worlds first Quokka genome was built by DNA Zoo Australia team and presented as a 2nd Birthday gift for this enigmatic species and we are very excited to take this genome resources next level through AR! Not only that DNA Zoo holds many public and school events throughout the year and showcase AR simulation will be accessible to anyone with a smart phone. Visitors will learn about DNA molecules and how its being used in research for saving our precious biodiversity.
If biodiversity fails, we all fail. JOIN US building this legacy of data and basic resources for generations to come and use!
Client
Contact: Parwinder Kaur, Dino Spagnoli
Phone: 0421251091
Email: [email protected]
Preferred contact: Email
Location: UWA, Agriculture Central & Bayliss Building
IP Exploitation Model
The IP exploitation model requested by the Client is: Creative Commons (open source) http://creativecommons.org.au/
Department of Computer Science & Software Engineering
The University of Western Australia
Last modified: 26 July 2021
Modified By: Michael Wise
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