We are interested in the evolution of hormone systems. Central to our work is the exploration of a novel invertebrate model system, Platynereis dumerilii. Our past work has shown that this marine worm exhibits a unique combination of ancestral-type genomic characteristics not found in insect and nematode model species. Moreover, we have identified numerous components of ancestral-type hormone pathways in Platynereis. Therefore, Platynereis is highly interesting for comparison with the vertebrate hormone system, and for our understanding of marine life.

The hormonal control of reproduction and regeneration

What could be the function of ancestral-type hormones in Platynereis? One of the systems that we aim to dissect is the hormonal machinery orchestrating reproduction and regeneration. Platynereis is an excellent object for this analysis, as it has been a central model for the link between chronobiology and reproduction. Our molecular analyses have identified a spectrum of conserved hormones in Platynereis. Thanks to the establishment of new molecular tools, we are now able to systematically assess the impact of these candidates on the development and maturation of the animals. These experiments are supported by an ERC starting grant (HOR.MOON) we have recently attracted, and provide us with first molecular insight into the enigmatic hormone machinery underlying lunar reproductive periodicity.

Exploring a new marine model system

Over the past years, Platynereis has emerged as a very promising “next-generation” model system. We have pioneered transgenic technology in Platynereis that allows us to mark and interrogate cell types with unprecedented precision. Moreover, we explore transcriptomic technology and functional assays to dissect the logic of hormone regulation and action in the animal. Finally, we make use of the remarkable transparency of Platynereis to observe cells and molecules in action. These approaches provide entry points into the fascinating biology of a new marine model species. Besides the action of hormones, we are actively investigating the evolution of gene-regulatory logic and the orchestration of cellular processes involved in the sculpting of bristles. Our vision is to firmly establish Platynereis as a reference species for marine biology.