BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//wp-events-plugin.com//7.2.2.1//EN TZID:Asia/Jerusalem X-WR-TIMEZONE:Asia/Jerusalem BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1381@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20261006T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20261006T133000 DTSTAMP:20260824T100847Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-neraz- shai/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar - Neraz Shai [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Anita Izmailov\n Affil iation: \n Host:Professor Emeritus Gadi Schuster\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1380@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260901T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260901T140000 DTSTAMP:20260816T112619Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-anita- izmailov/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar - Anita Izmailov [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Anita Izmailov\n Affil iation: \n Host:Professor Sigal Savaldi-Goldstein\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1379@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260901T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260901T133000 DTSTAMP:20260816T112430Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-elior- swisa/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar - Elior Swisa [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Elior Swisa \n Affilia tion: \n Host:Professor Michael Glickman\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1378@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260804T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260804T140000 DTSTAMP:20260726T113827Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-anna-y unaev-yehoshua/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Anna Yunaev-Yehoshua [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Anna Yunaev-Yehoshua\n Affiliation: \n Host:Professor Yoram Reiter\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1374@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260715T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260715T140000 DTSTAMP:20260609T070024Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-shahar -levi-3/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Shahar Levi [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Shahar Levi\n Affiliat ion: \n Host:Professor Michael Glickman\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1376@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260707T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260707T140000 DTSTAMP:20260630T120700Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-zhongy ang-lin/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Zhongyang Lin [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Zhongyang Lin\n Affili ation: \n Host:Associate Professor Dvir Aran\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1366@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260706T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260706T140000 DTSTAMP:20260415T085144Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-itay-koren/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Itay Koren [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Itay Koren\n Affiliati on: Bar Ilan University\n Host:Dr. Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1370@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260630T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260630T140000 DTSTAMP:20260526T125903Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-bader- rayan-2/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Bader Rayan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Bader Rayan\n Affiliat ion: \n Host:Associate Professor Meytal Landau\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1328@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260629T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260629T140000 DTSTAMP:20260629T073320Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-avraha m-yaron/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Zevik Melamed [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Zevik Melamed\n Affili ation: Department of Medical Neurobiology\, Faculty of Medicine at the Heb rew University\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1337@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260624T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260624T143000 DTSTAMP:20260617T063226Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/bridge-to-industry-tbd-5/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Associate Professor Shaul Yogev [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Shaul Yogev\n Affiliat ion: Yale University School of Medicine\n Host:Dr. maya maor \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1372@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260623T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260623T140000 DTSTAMP:20260603T073911Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-shahar -levi/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Ran Tahan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Ran Tahan\n Affiliatio n: \n Host:Professor Debbie Lindell\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1364@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260622T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260622T140000 DTSTAMP:20260415T084926Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-shahar-alon / SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Shahar Alon [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Shahar Alon\n Affiliat ion: Bar Ilan University\n Host:Dr. Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1375@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260617T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260617T140000 DTSTAMP:20260609T090207Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-yarden -amichan/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Yarden Amichan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Council Room Yarden Amichan\n Aff iliation: \n Host:Associate Professor Ayelet Lamm\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Council Room END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1371@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260616T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260616T140000 DTSTAMP:20260603T073512Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-smriti -bhardwaj/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Smriti Bhardwaj [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Smriti Bhardwaj \n Aff iliation: \n Host:Associate Professor Shay Stern\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1327@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260615T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260615T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T121400Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-eyal-kar zbrun/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Eyal Karzbrun [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Weizma nn Institute of Science\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1326@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260608T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260608T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T121203Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-abed-man sour/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Abed Mansour [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: The He brew University of Jerusalem\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1325@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260601T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260601T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T121100Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-shahar-a lon/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Shahar Alon [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Bar I lan University\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n 13 LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1367@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260505T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260505T140000 DTSTAMP:20260430T122759Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-tahlil-ali- nasser/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar - Tahlil Ali-Nasser [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Tahlil Ali-Nasser\n Af filiation: \n Host:Assistant Prof. Assaf Bester\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1322@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260504T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260504T140000 DTSTAMP:20260429T071317Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-ofer-y izhar/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Maxim Rubin-Blum [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Maxim Rubin-Blum\n Affiliation: National Institute of Oceanography\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1334@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260429T123000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260429T140000 DTSTAMP:20260420T122936Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/bridge-to-industry-tbd-2/ SUMMARY:Bridge to Industry - Bioconvergence: Technologies\, Applications\, and Emerging Opportunities - Dr. Reut Guy [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Reut Guy\n Affilia tion: \n Host:Dr. Dror Melamed\n Bioconvergence integrates biology with en gineering\, computation\, materials science\, and physics\, enabling the d evelopment of powerful platform technologies with applications across a wi de range of domains\, including healthcare\, energy\, manufacturing\, envi ronment\, and agriculture.\n\nThis seminar will present the vision and rat ionale behind Israel’s National Bioconvergence Program\, which aims to l everage Israel’s multidisciplinary research strengths to advance this em erging field. As a concrete use case\, the seminar will draw on a recent s tudy conducted by the Israel Innovation Authority that examined the potent ial of bioconvergence technologies to address diverse climate challenges. The session will present the study’s methodology and key insights\, incl uding a mapping of technologies to diverse application areas. Real-world a pplications will be showcased\, highlighting the role of academia in build ing a resilient\, innovation-driven ecosystem. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1321@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260427T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260427T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T120404Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-mike-f ainzilber/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar-Prof. Mike Fainzilber [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Weizma nn Institute of Science\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1320@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260420T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260420T140000 DTSTAMP:20260415T071406Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-eran-m osherer/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Noga Ron-Harel [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: The Te chnion\n Host:Dr. Maya Maor-Nof \n You’re invited to enjoy pizza at 12:3 0 p.m. on Monday\, April 20\, at the Biology Auditorium.\n\nTalk Abstract: \nT cell aging is driven not only by changes within the cells themselves\, but also by signals from their surrounding environment. In the Ron-Harel lab\, we study how different tissues shape the aging of immune cells.\n\nW e recently discovered that T cells age at different rates depending on whe re they reside in the body. In particular\, T cells from the spleen show a greater decline in function than those from lymph nodes. We found that th is difference is linked to increased levels of heme and iron in the aged s pleen\, which create a toxic environment for these cells.\n\nIn this semin ar\, I will describe how T cells adapt to this stress by limiting their in ternal iron levels\, allowing them to avoid a form of cell death known as ferroptosis. I will also present evidence that boosting iron levels after vaccination can improve immune responses in aged mice. Finally\, I will di scuss our ongoing work exploring how heme and iron contribute more broadly to age-related immune dysfunction\, including chronic inflammation and th e accumulation of highly differentiated T cells.\n\nSome details about her research and publications can be found at:\nhttps://www.ronharellab.com/\ n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1319@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260413T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260413T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T115929Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-iris-dro r/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Iris Dror [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: MIGAL - Galilee Research Institute\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1362@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260331T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260331T140000 DTSTAMP:20260329T095409Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-nitzan -sioni/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Nitzan Sioni [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Auditorium + Zoom https://technion.zoom.us/j /91848871351 Nitzan Sioni \n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. David M eiri\n The Effect of Metabolites from Psilocybin-Producing Fungi on the Gu t Microbiome\n\nThis research investigates the impact of PAN_CINC mushroom extract on the gut-brain axis\, specifically focusing on its role in modu lating the host's serotonin system. Our findings demonstrate that the extr act significantly increases the expression of TPH-1 and SERT in colonic ti ssue. Interestingly\, this effect is microbiome-dependent\, as the extract promotes the growth of key beneficial bacteria\, such as Roseburia and Ru minococcus. These bacteria ferment fibers to produce butyrate\, which acts as a signaling molecule to induce serotonin synthesis. Overall\, this stu dy highlights the potential of medicinal mushrooms to improve gut health a nd regulate serotonin through microbial mediation.\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Auditorium + Zoom https://technion.zoom.us/j/91848871351 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1361@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260331T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260331T133000 DTSTAMP:20260329T094809Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-shoval -ravitzky/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Shoval Ravitzky [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Auditorium + Zoom https://technion.zoom.us/j /91848871351 Shoval Ravitzky \n Affiliation: Associate Prof. David Meiri\ n Host:\n In Vitro Screening of the Neuroplastic Effect of Psychoactive Mu shroom Extracts\n\nNeuroplasticity underlies learning\, memory\, and cogni tive flexibility\, and its impairment is a hallmark of neurological and ps ychiatric disorders. While psychedelic compounds are associated with plast icity-enhancing effects\, the neuroplastic potential of whole mushroom ext racts remains poorly characterized. Here\, we tested whether whole extract s from neuroactive fungi modulate structural plasticity using an in vitro neuronal model and a high-throughput neurite analysis system we developed. Psilocybin-producing mushrooms showed species-specific effects\, likely r eflecting differences in metabolic composition\, whereas Amanita muscaria showed no detectable structural or molecular effects. Together\, these fin dings demonstrate that whole mushroom extracts differentially affect neuro nal plasticity and established a platform for identifying novel modulators of neuronal growth.\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Auditorium + Zoom https://technion.zoom.us/j/91848871351 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1318@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260330T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260330T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T115752Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-assistant-p rofessor-itay-koren/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar-Assistant Prof. Itay Koren [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Bar Il an University\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1356@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260330T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260330T140000 DTSTAMP:20260323T123518Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-jonath an-greenbaum/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Jonathan Greenbaum [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/94149580805 Jonathan Greenbaum\n Affiliation: \n Host:Pro f. Debbie Lindell \n Host availability effects on evolution of generalist and specialist cyanophages\n\nObligate parasites such as bacteriophages ar e dependent on the availability of a sensitive host to persist. Natural en vironments pose challenges for survival\, with periods of unavailability o f such a host and gradual loss of infectivity of phages. Despite the impor tance of host availability to bacteriophages in natural environments\, kno wledge regarding evolution of ecologically prevalent bacteriophages is lac king. Here\, we characterized the evolution of cyanobacteria-infecting bac teriophages (cyanophages) when propagating in the presence of a sensitive host. In addition\, we characterized cyanophage evolution in the presence of increasing amounts of distinct resistant strains to which they can atta ch\, while reducing the amount of sensitive host availability. Most cyanop hage populations adapted to better infect the sensitive host. No evidence for changes in host range was observed. Whole-genome sequencing revealed p atterns of convergent evolution\, host availability-specific mutations\, a nd genes associated with adaptation. Specifically\, we found a putative ho lin\, a common phage protein not previously characterized in marine cyanop hages\, that affects the length of the infection cycle. In addition\, we f ound a decrease in attachment to both sensitive and resistant strains\, su ggesting a balance between infection characteristics beneficial in some ho st availabilities\, and detrimental in others. In addition\, we found that cyanophage evolution can have an unexpected effect on the growth of cyano bacteria not involved in the process of evolution. Together\, these findin gs shed light on the complexity of cyanophage-cyanobacteria interactions i n natural environments\, highlighting some unexpected outcomes of these in teractions for cyanophage persistence strategies and evolution of infectio n characteristics. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/94149580805 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1359@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260324T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260324T140000 DTSTAMP:20260323T123258Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-nada-s widan/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Nada Swidan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/96483815055 Nada Swidan\n Affiliation: Associate Prof. Ay elet Lamm\n Host:\n Characterizing A-G Mismatch Signatures Associated with A-to-I RNA Editing and m6A in C. elegans\n\nRNA molecules can undergo che mical modifications that influence how they are processed and regulated. U sing Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system\, we analyze RNA sequencing datasets to investigate different types of RNA modifications. Focusing on A-to-I RNA editing\, we identify candidate editing sites in mature and pre cursor microRNAs and examine their expression dynamics during embryonic de velopment. RNA sequencing data frequently contain nucleotide mismatches re lative to the reference genome\; while some can be explained by A-to-I RNA editing\, many remain unexplained. We therefore analyze transcriptome-wid e data to explore whether characteristic mismatch patterns in mRNA reads m ay reflect signatures associated with m6A modification. Together\, these a nalyses provide insight into how RNA modifications shape RNA regulation an d suggest potential avoidance between different RNA modification pathways. athways. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/96483815055 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1360@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260324T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260324T133000 DTSTAMP:20260323T123206Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-christ een-elmor/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Christeen Elmor [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Christeen Elmor\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Nabie h Ayoub\n RBM15B–DDX21 coordinates m6A writer assembly to regulate gene expression\n\nN6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant mRNA modificat ion in eukaryotes\, with established roles in DNA damage response and canc er. m6A is deposited co-transcriptionally by the METTL3-METTL14 methyltran sferase complex (MTC)\, yet the mechanisms governing MTC assembly and chro matin recruitment remain poorly defined. Here\, we identify RBM15B as a cr itical regulator of MTC integrity\, demonstrating that its RRM1 domain dir ectly mediates interaction with METTL3 and promotes efficient complex form ation. Interactome analysis further reveals that the RNA helicase DDX21 dr ives RBM15B chromatin association\, placing DDX21 upstream in the regulato ry cascade. Consistently\, RBM15B-dependent MTC chromatin recruitment faci litates RNA Pol II occupancy\, linking this axis to active transcription. Collectively\, our data establish a hierarchical pathway of DDX21-RBM15B- MTC that coordinates co-transcriptional m6A deposition\, uncovering a new layer of epitranscriptomic regulation with implications for cancer biology END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1358@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260323T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260323T140000 DTSTAMP:20260311T090844Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-3/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Ofir Levin-Piaeda [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/5447024192 Ofir Levin-Piaeda \n Affiliation: \n Hos t:Prof. Reiter Yoram\n  \;\n\nBeyond Signal Strength: Combining biophy sical properties with co-stimulatory signals to design optimal TCRL-based CAR-T cells\n\n \;\n\nTo address the limited efficacy of CAR T-cell th erapy in solid tumors\, we systematically optimized the intracellular sign aling domains of TCR-Like (TCRL) CARs targeting melanoma. Our research ide ntifies the advanced 3rd-generation CAR and the dual-signal novel hybrid c onstructs as lead candidates\, demonstrating superior targeted cytotoxicit y across varying antigen densities without triggering immediate inhibitory overload. Crucially\, transcriptomic analysis reveals these engineered T- cells succeed by reprogramming their genetic profile toward "metabolic int elligence"—prioritizing long-term metabolic fitness over mere signal amp lification to prevent exhaustion and sustain anti-tumor activity. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/5447024192 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1357@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260316T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260316T140000 DTSTAMP:20260311T081001Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-jonath an-greenbaum-2/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Jonathan Greenbaum [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/94149580805 Jonathan Greenbaum\n Affiliation: \n Host:Pr of. Debbie Lindell \n “Host availability effects on evolution of general ist and specialist cyanophages”\n\nObligate parasites such as bacterioph ages are dependent on the availability of a sensitive host to persist. Nat ural environments pose challenges for survival\, with periods of unavailab ility of such a host and gradual loss of infectivity of phages. Despite th e importance of host availability to bacteriophages in natural environment s\, knowledge regarding evolution of ecologically prevalent bacteriophages is lacking. Here\, we characterized the evolution of cyanobacteria-infect ing bacteriophages (cyanophages) when propagating in the presence of a sen sitive host. In addition\, we characterized cyanophage evolution in the pr esence of increasing amounts of distinct resistant strains to which they c an attach\, while reducing the amount of sensitive host availability. Most cyanophage populations adapted to better infect the sensitive host. No ev idence for changes in host range was observed. Whole-genome sequencing rev ealed patterns of convergent evolution\, host availability-specific mutati ons\, and genes associated with adaptation. Specifically\, we found a puta tive holin\, a common phage protein not previously characterized in marine cyanophages\, that affects the lengtah of the infection cycle. In additio n\, we found a decrease in attachment to both \n\n \;\n\nsensitive and resistant strains\, suggesting a balance between infection characteristic s beneficial in some host availabilities\, and detrimental in others. In a ddition\, we found that cyanophage evolution can have an unexpected effect on the growth of cyanobacteria not involved in the process of evolution. Together\, these findings shed light on the complexity of cyanophage-cyano bacteria interactions in natural environments\, highlighting some unexpect ed outcomes of these interactions for cyanophage persistence strategies an d evolution of infection characteristics.\n\n \; LOCATION: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.u s/j/94149580805 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1354@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260311T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260311T140000 DTSTAMP:20260302T135854Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-bader- rayan/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Bader Rayan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/92075968631 Bader Rayan\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Meytal Landau \n Amyloids are functional assemblies whose structura l plasticity governs biological activity. We identified fibril-forming ant imicrobial peptides with reversible structural switching that modulates th eir function. Extending this concept to bacterial virulence\, we show that PSMα3 from Staphylococcus aureus forms a dynamically regulated cross-α amyloid that transitions between soluble\, condensate\, and fibrillar stat es. These environmentally tuned states differentially control antimicrobia l activity and host immunometabolic responses.\n\n13 LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/92075968631 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1355@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260309T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260309T140000 DTSTAMP:20260304T131508Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-almog- angel/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Almog Angel [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/91997034360 \n Affiliation: Almog Angel\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Computational Characterization of the Tumor Microenvironment for Op timizing Immunotherapy Response\n\nImmunotherapy has transformed cancer tr eatment\, yet most patients do not achieve a durable benefit. A prevailing hypothesis is that differences in the tumor microenvironment (TME) influe nce therapeutic response\, highlighting the need for accurate tools to cha racterize tumor cellular composition. In the first part of my PhD\, I deve loped xCell 2.0\, an improved computational method for inferring cell type enrichment from bulk transcriptomic data. The framework introduces a flex ible training pipeline and automated handling of cell type dependencies\, enabling robust performance across diverse reference datasets. In extensiv e benchmarking across human and mouse datasets\, xCell 2.0 outperformed ex isting deconvolution methods and improved prediction of immunotherapy resp onse in pan-cancer analyses. In the second part\, I investigated how chemo therapy may reshape the TME to influence response to subsequent immunother apy. I derived a transcriptomic signature that identifies tumors likely to undergo favorable immune remodeling following chemotherapy. Notably\, thi s benefit is specific to patients receiving combined chemo-immunotherapy a nd not immunotherapy alone\, consistent with a model of chemotherapy-media ted immune priming. Together\, this work provides both a methodological ad vance for TME characterization and a mechanism-informed framework for iden tifying patients who may benefit from combined or sequential chemo-immunot herapy strategies.\n\n \; LOCATION: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.u s/j/91997034360 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1353@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260304T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260304T133000 DTSTAMP:20260302T133316Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-daniel -katz/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Daniel Katz [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/94121779426 Daniel Katz\n Affiliation: \n Host: Associate Prof. David Meiri \n  \;\n\nAn ti-epileptic effect of Amanita muscaria metabolites\n\nAffecting millions worldwide\, epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures\, with many patients unresponsive to current medicatio ns. Our study sought to identify novel therapeutic agents for epilepsy by investigating the psychoactive fungus Amanita muscaria. Using a pentylenet etrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model\, we found that the whole extract of A. muscaria displayed significant anti-epileptic activity in mice. By frac tionating the extract and subsequently refractionating it\, we identified a subfraction that retains this activity\, which was profiled via mass spe ctrometry\, revealing both known anti-epileptic metabolites and previously uncharacterized compounds. Together\, these findings identify A. muscaria as a promising source of novel anti-seizure compounds. LOCATION:ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/94121779426 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1352@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260218T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260218T140000 DTSTAMP:20260212T125659Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-amit-f elach/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Amit Felach [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/99663315043 Amit Felach\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Assaf Bester \n Studying lncRNA Sequence–Function Relationships Using Minimall y Supervised Model\n\n \;\n\nLong non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) constitute a major regulatory component of the human transcriptome\, yet their mecha nisms of action and functional organization remain poorly understood. Enab led by advances in RNA sequencing\, genomic resources\, and molecular inte raction assays\, this study integrates computational and experimental appr oaches to characterize lncRNA regulatory functions and subcellular localiz ation. We applied a Minimally Supervised Model bioinformatic framework to identify functional domains within lncRNA sequences and combined it with e xperimental validation\, revealing stimulus-dependent localization dynamic s. In parallel\, optimization of a biotinylated RNA pulldown assay uncover ed novel lncRNA–protein interactions\, including a previously uncharacte rized regulatory mechanism involving SNHG14 and the identification of LINC 01001 as a chromatin-associated lncRNA. Together\, these findings highligh t the power of combining language-inspired computational models with molec ular biology techniques to uncover hidden regulatory features of the non-c oding genome\n\n \; LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/99663315043 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1351@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260218T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260218T133000 DTSTAMP:20260212T123953Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-yuanpu -sun/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Yuanpu Sun [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/99663315043 Yuanpu Sun\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Yael Mandel-Gutfreund \n RBM25 Acts as a dual chromatin- and RNA-binding regula tor in Human Embryonic Stem Cells1\n\n \n\n \;\n\nRNA-binding protein s are increasingly recognized to have chromatin-associated functions beyon d their canonical post-transcriptional roles. Here\, we show that RBM25 ex hibits dual RNA- and DNA-binding functions in human Embryonic Stem Cells. At the RNA level\, RBM25 acts as a splicing factor\, while\, at the DNA le vel\, it is required for the binding of the Transcription regulator CEBPZ to promoters of cell cycle–related genes. In contrast\, RBM25 and CEBPZ bind to introns of silenced neuronal genes independently. Together\, these findings identify a functional RBM25–CEBPZ interaction that supports st em cell identity and prevents premature neuronal differentiation. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/99663315043 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1350@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260217T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260217T140000 DTSTAMP:20260212T122649Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-guy-be n-zvi/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Guy Ben Zvi [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Guy Ben Zvi\n Affiliat ion: \n Host:Prof. Emeritus Gadi Schuster\, Prof. Sigal Savaldi-Goldstein \,Assoc. Prof. Sariel Hubner\n We propose a new theory of wheat domesticat ion where climatic stress triggered transposable element (TE) bursts\, gen erating vast phenotypic diversity. Unlike wild relatives where natural sel ection favored lower TE content\, we suggest human selection preserved all eles with increased TE content near domestication-related traits\, effecti vely fixing these TE-rich variations.1 LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1349@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260128T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260128T133000 DTSTAMP:20260125T105305Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-yiftac h-navot/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Yiftach Navot [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/96634615452?pwd=NukW9ZIewsbU0bj811uSi7nN04A6sT.1 Yiftach Navot\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Professor Tom Shemesh\n The Hidden Energy of Membrane Heterogeneity\n\nIn this work we develop a microscopic- scale model of a mixed membrane system. We use our results to add a correc tion term to the Helfrich Hamiltonian\, the established cornerstone of bio physical membrane modeling. Our correction provides testable predictions a nd has immediate implications on protein sorting and membrane-mediated pro tein interactions.\n\n \; LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/96634615452?pwd=NukW9ZIewsbU0bj811uSi7nN04A6sT.1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1317@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260126T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260126T140000 DTSTAMP:20251029T115559Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-yakub- hanna/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Prof. Yakub Hanna [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Weizm ann Institute of Science\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1348@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260119T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260119T140000 DTSTAMP:20260115T064452Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-papers-of-t he-month-winners-january-19/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Papers of the Month Winners-January 19 [No Categor ies] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Almog Angel\, Dr. Lail a A. Bishara\, Dr. Nir Strugo \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Faculty Members\, Students\, and Staff\,\n\nYou are cordially inv ited to a faculty seminar featuring the Papers of the Month winners\, whi ch will take place next week on Monday\, January 19 at 13:00 in the Facul ty of Biology Auditorium.\n\nDuring the seminar\, the following STAR of th e Month awardees will present their outstanding research:\n\n Almog Ange l – Aran Lab (September 2025)\nxCell 2.0: A robust algorithm for cell t ype proportion estimation that predicts response to immune checkpoint bloc kade\n Dr. Laila A. Bishara – Ayoub Lab (November 2025)\nC8orf33 dicta tes DNA double-strand break repair choice by modulating KAT8-mediated H4K1 6 acetylation\n Dr. Nir Strugo – Kaplan Lab (December 2025)\nIntrinsic ally disordered regions facilitate target search to drive promoter selecti vity by a yeast transcription factor\n\nAll members of the Faculty of Biol ogy are warmly invited to attend and participate in this special seminar.\ n\nBest regards\,\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1345@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260115T120000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260115T130000 DTSTAMP:20251228T100005Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-marc-l ecuit-host-listeria-crosstalk-a-tale-of-invasion-and-evasion/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Prof. Marc Lecuit-Host-Listeria crosstalk: a tale of invasion and evasion [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Lecture Hall No. 1\, Schulich Faculty of Chemistry P rof. Marc Lecuit\n Affiliation: institut Pasteur\, Paris\, France\n Host:P rof. Roy Kishony\n LOCATION:Lecture Hall No. 1\, Schulich Faculty of Chemistry END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1344@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260114T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260114T140000 DTSTAMP:20251224T102012Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-malak- darawshe/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Malak Darawshe [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/96635422862 Malak Darawshe\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. N abieh Ayoub\n LSm4 protein forms RNA degradation hubs at DNA breaks to fac ilitate repair\n\nAccurate repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is es sential for genomic stability\, especially in transcriptionally active reg ions. Persistent transcription at DSBs leads to the formation of RNA:DNA h ybrids (R-loops)\, which obstruct homologous recombination (HR). While R-l oop resolution is understood\, the mechanisms that remove pre-existing RNA transcripts in the vicinity of DSBs to limit R-loop formation remain poor ly understood. In my PhD\, I describe a mechanism by which cells locally d egrade RNA at DSBs to enable repair. I show that the RNA-binding protein L Sm4 is rapidly recruited to DSBs in active chromatin\, where it undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) to form biomolecular condensates. Th ese condensates function as processing hubs that promote RNA decapping and recruit the 5′→3′ exonuclease XRN2 to degrade nascent transcripts n ear the break. This LSm4–XRN2 axis suppresses pathological R-loop accumu lation\, facilitating RAD51 recruitment and accurate HR. Loss of LSm4 lead s to genomic instability and increased translocations. These findings esta blish phase-separated condensates as spatial organizers of RNA clearance a t DNA lesions\, revealing a new paradigm for coordinating local RNA turnov er with faithful DNA repair. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/96635422862 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1347@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260112T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260112T140000 DTSTAMP:20260107T110652Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-uri-shey n-virginia-tech-usa/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Uri Sheyn (Virginia Tech\, USA) [No Categories ] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Uri Sheyn\n Affiliation: Department of Biologic al Sciences Virginia Tech\, USA\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students\, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\n \;\n\nNext week for our Facult y Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, January 12th\, we will have a ta lk by Dr. Uri Sheyn  of the Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Te ch\, USA. Dr. Uri Sheyn will present a talk titled "“From Virocells to O cean Patterns\, A Single-Cell View of Viral Infection".\n\n \;\n\n&nbs p\;\n\nTalk Abstract: \n\n \;\n\nViruses play a central role in shapi ng aquatic ecosystems\, yet their impacts are often\n\ninferred from popul ation averages that obscure underlying cellular heterogeneity. In this\n\n seminar\, I present a single-cell framework for understanding viral infect ion across\n\nphytoplankton systems\, from acute lytic infection to viral genome integration.\n\nUsing single-cell transcriptomics and mRNA imaging\ , I show that viral infection\n\nproceeds through discrete cellular progra ms that define distinct virocell states\, providing\n\na mechanistic frame work that links intracellular regulation to emergent biological\n\npattern s. These states rewire host physiology and help explain how infection infl uences\n\nbloom dynamics and vertical redistribution of bloom biomass in t he ocean. I further\n\ndemonstrate that integrated viral genomes in Chlamy domonas reinhardtii exhibit\n\nheterogeneous expression states at the sing le-cell level\, revealing viral strategies that\n\nare difficult to interp ret from bulk data alone.\n\nI conclude by outlining how these approaches can be extended within the Technion’s\n\ninterdisciplinary research envi ronment to resolve how viral infection reshapes\n\ninteractions among micr obes\, linking cellular infection states to community organization\n\nand ecosystem-scale patterns.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you!\nMa ya END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1346@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260105T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20260105T140000 DTSTAMP:20251231T071830Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-ron-hada s-caltech-ca-usa/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar -Dr. Ron Hadas (Caltech\, CA\, USA) [No Categories ] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Ron Hadas \n Affiliation: Developmental and Sy nthetic Biology Division of Biology and Biological Engineering\, Caltech\, CA\, USA .\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students\, Postdocs\ , and Faculty\,\n\n \;\n\nNext week for our Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, January 5th\, we will have a talk by Dr. Ron Hadas  of the Developmental and Synthetic Biology Division of Biology and Biologi cal Engineering\, Caltech\, CA\, USA .  Dr. Ron Hadas will present a talk titled "How Do Extraembryonic Tissues Shape Development ?".\n\n \;\n\ n \;\n\nAbstract\n\nMammalian embryogenesis progresses through rapid a nd coordinated diversification of embryonic and extraembryonic lineages\, yet how progenitors emerge across time\, space\, and lineage remains unres olved. To address this\, we built a temporal single-cell model of early de velopment that delineates continuous differentiation trajectories in embry onic and extraembryonic compartments. Combined with targeted perturbations \, this framework revealed an early bifurcation between early placental pr ogenitors and a biphasic role for BMP4: an extraembryonic-derived signal e ssential for placental differentiation\, mesoendoderm bifurcation\, allant ois formation\, and germline specification\, followed by an embryo-derived BMP4 signal that restricts the primordial germ cell pool.\nYet\, transcri ptional trajectories alone cannot reveal the actual lineage paths that cel ls take\, or how spatial organization constrains these fate outcomes. To r esolve these lineage relationships\, we engineered MEMOIR\, a spatial line age-recording mouse model that integrates barcode editing\, sequential ima ging\, and Bayesian methods for phylogenetic reconstruction. By retrospect ively tracing lineage segregation events\, MEMOIR charted epiblast diversi fication into germ layers\, identified the origins of the primordial germl ine\, and linked spatial position to fate choices in placental progenitors .\n\nTogether\, these complementary approaches reveal how early developmen t unfolds through coordinated signaling\, spatial context\, and lineage hi story. Understanding how gene programs generate distinct cell types provid es a foundation for uncovering mechanisms of pregnancy failure and informi ng regenerative medicine strategies.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seei ng you!\nMaya END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1339@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251231T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251231T140000 DTSTAMP:20251204T100841Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-johann es-venezian/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Johannes Venezian [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/99903047740 Johannes Venezian\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Aya la Shiber \n Evolution of Protein Folding and Assembly Pathways: Decipheri ng the Characteristics of Divergent Co-translational Assembly Pathways\n\n Protein-protein interactions are at the heart of all cellular processes\, with the ribosome emerging as a platform that orchestrates nascent-chain i nterplay dynamics. In this seminar\, I will present a multidisciplinary st udy combining in vivo and in silico approaches to capture snapshots of t he translation process through various methods\, such as selective ribosom e profiling\, all-atom molecular dynamics simulations\, and AlphaFold-base d predictions. These approaches elucidate the interplay of ribosome-associ ated factors that guide the folding and assembly pathways of emerging poly peptide chains. Focusing on the divergent folding and assembly pathways of the N-terminal acetyltransferase complex family to gain mechanistic insig ht—and expanding the analysis to the proteome scale—we discovered that assembly is driven by high-energy interface 'hotspots' that anchor mutual ly stabilizing subunits. We further demonstrate that these structural sign atures can accurately predict co-translational assembly across species and that disrupting these hotspots is linked to aggregation and neurodegenera tive disease. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 99903047740 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1343@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251229T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251229T140000 DTSTAMP:20251223T082155Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-rachelly -normand/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar-Dr. Rachelly Normand [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Rachelly Normand \ n Affiliation: the Massachusetts General Hospital Harvard Medical School B road Institute of MIT and Harvad Cambridge\, Massachusetts\, USA. \n Host :Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students\, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\ n \;\n\nNext week for our Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monda y\, December 29th\, we will have a talk by Dr. Rachelly Normand of the Ma ssachusetts General Hospital Harvard Medical School Broad Institute of MIT and Harvad Cambridge\, Massachusetts\, USA.  Dr. Rachelly Normand will p resent a talk titled "Advancing\n\nWomen's Health One Cell at a Time: From Autoimmunity to Pregnancy".\n\n\nTalk Abstract: \n\n \;\n\nWomen’s health has historically been marginalized in research\, and much of biome dical\n\nknowledge still defaults to male physiology. My goal is to build a women-centered\n\nresearch program focused on two complementary areas of research: autoimmunity\,\n\nwhich disproportionately affects women\, and pregnancy\, a critical and complex process\n\nthat shapes women’s health long after delivery. Autoimmunity and pregnancy share\n\nfundamental tole rance pathways\, making their joint study particularly powerful. In this\n \nseminar I will present my post-doctoral study on thyroid autoimmunity\, where we show\n\nthat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease - th ough clinically distinct - share many\n\nfeatures in the cellular ecosyste m of the thyroid gland. We identified epithelial-immune\n\ncellular niches that form in the gland during autoimmunity and may act as a tissue\n\ntol erance mechanism to help preserve organ function in the setting of chronic immune\n\nattack. I will then share results from the largest single cell placenta atlas profiled to date\,\n\nincluding five different pregnancy co mplications. This comprehensive atlas reveals\n\npreviously unrecognized p lacental cell subsets and uncovers distinct dynamics of fetal\n\nand mater nal cells across different complications. I will conclude by outlining my future\n\nresearch program\, which will move beyond cataloging individual cell types to\n\nsystematically defining the cellular niches that support tissue function and tissue\n\ntolerance in diverse contexts of women’s h ealth.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you!\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1332@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251224T123000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251224T140000 DTSTAMP:20251209T121815Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/bridge-to-industry-dr-rami- skaliter-cellcure-neurosciences-ltd/ SUMMARY:Bridge to Industry - Dr. Rami Skaliter\, Cellcure Neurosciences Ltd [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Rami Skaliter\n Af filiation: Cellcure Neurosciences Ltd\n Host:Dr. Dror Melamed\n You are in vited to the Sixth lecture in the "Bridge to Industry" series:\n\n \;\ n\nInsights from Developing Novel Allogeneic Cell Therapies for Serious Ne urological and Ophthalmic Diseases\nSpeaker: Dr. Rami Skaliter\, CEO of Ce llucure Neurosciences Ltd\n\n \n\nDr. Skaliter has an extensive career in the life sciences and pharmaceutical industries\, specializing in drug de velopment. He holds a B.Sc. in Biology from Ben-Gurion University and an M .Sc. and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Weizmann Institute\, where he focu sed on DNA replication and mutagenesis. After completing a postdoctoral fe llowship at Stanford University\, he transitioned into the biotech industr y.\n\n \;\n\nHe currently serves as the CEO of Cell Cure Neurosciences \, an Israeli subsidiary of Lineage Cell Therapeutics\, dedicated to devel oping and manufacturing pluripotent stem cell–derived therapies for dege nerative eye diseases and other neurodegenerative conditions. Previously\, he spent more than 20 years in key roles at Quark Pharmaceuticals\, inclu ding a decade as Chief Operating Officer.\n\n \;\n\nAt CellCure\, he l eads the development of scalable GMP manufacturing processes for allogenei c cell therapies\, including RPE cells for Dry AMD (in collaboration with Genentech/Roche) and auditory neuron progenitors for Auditory Neuropathy ( in partnership with Demant)\, alongside additional therapeutic programs. H e has been a speaker at major industry conferences\, presenting on cell th erapy formulation\, immune rejection challenges\, and advancing stem cell –based therapies into clinical trials.\n\n \;\n\nDate: Wednesday\, D ecember 24\, at 13:00\nLocation: Biology Auditorium\n\nSchedule:\n12:30– 13:00 Coffee and light refreshments – Lobby outside the auditorium\n13:0 0–14:00 Seminar – Biology Auditorium\n14:00–14:30 Open discussion wi th the speaker on “Bridge to Industry” – Auditorium Lobby\n\n \; \n\nJoin us for a fascinating journey of discovery\, collaboration\, and i nnovation!\n\nClick here to register LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1342@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251222T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251222T140000 DTSTAMP:20251216T065203Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-jonathan -gropp-university-of-california-berkeley-ca-usa/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar-Dr. Jonathan Gropp (University of California\, Be rkeley\, CA\, USA) [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Jonathan Gropp \ n Affiliation: University of California\, Berkeley\, CA\, USA\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students\, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\n  \;\n\nNext week for our Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, De cember 22nd\, we will have a talk by Dr. Jonathan Gropp of the Departmen t of Earth and Planetary Science\, University of California\, Berkeley\, C A\, USA. Dr. Jonathan Gropp will present a talk titled "Decoding microbia l methane production: from genes to ecosystems".\n\n \;\n\nTalk Abstra ct: \n\n \;\n\nMethanogenic archaea (methanogens) have the unique cap ability to couple methane (CH4) production with growth and energy conserva tion\, and they play a key role in the global carbon biogeochemical cycle. Despite this\, significant gaps remain in our understanding of their phys iology\, metabolism\, and ecology. This talk presents a platform for bridg ing this gap by using stable isotopes as probes to decode microbial methan e production from the gene to the ecosystem level.\n\nIn my work\, I study microbial methane metabolism using the stable isotopic ratios of carbon a nd hydrogen (13C/12C and 2H/1H) in methane\, which are widely used to tra ce methanogenic activity in natural environments. We have recently found t hat isotopic signatures of methane produced in laboratory cultures are dis tinct from those in natural environments. We have proposed that growth und er energy-limiting conditions increases enzyme reversibility\, thereby ind ucing isotopic exchange and altering isotopic signatures. To test this  “reversibility hypothesis\,” we used a genetically tractable methanoge nic strain modified via CRISPR-Cas9 to control the expression of methyl– coenzyme M reductase (MCR)\, a key enzyme in the pathway. Our results demo nstrate that MCR down-regulation decreases growth rates and alters the iso topic signature of the methane\, confirming that enzyme reversibility sets isotopic signatures under non-optimal growth conditions. We further found that temperature variations produce similar effects\, indicating that enz yme reversibility is prevalent during methanogenic growth\, especially und er conditions found in natural environments. These findings demonstrate th e utility of novel genome-editing techniques and stable-isotope probing as powerful tracers of biochemical processes in microbial metabolism and phy siology.\n\nFinally\, I will discuss future directions for my work\, using experimental and theoretical approaches\, including\, for example\, devel oping novel metabolic and isotopic biomarkers to track nitrogen fixation by methanogens. Nitrogen fixation first emerged in methanogens\, but their role in the nitrogen cycle remains unclear. I aim to elucidate this enigm a\, linking the carbon and nitrogen biogeochemical cycles. Such studies es tablish mechanistic frameworks to understand the fundamentals of microbial physiology and ecology\, paving the way for targeted strategies to mitiga te climate change and enhance renewable energy production.\n\n \;\n\nL ooking forward to seeing you!\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1341@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251217T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251217T140000 DTSTAMP:20251215T125531Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-jenia-binen baum-crispr-targeting-of-h3k4me3-reprograms-transcription-immunity-and-mei otic-recombination-in-plants/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Jenia Binenbaum "CRISPR targeting of H3K4me3 Repr ograms Transcription\, Immunity\, and Meiotic Recombination in Plants". [N o Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Jenia Binenbaum \n Aff iliation: University of Cambridge\, United Kingdom)\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor- Nof \n CRISPR targeting of H3K4me3 Reprograms Transcription\, Immunity\, a nd Meiotic \nRecombination in Plants\nPlants can develop a form of molecul ar memory through repeated exposure to specific stresses\,\nallowing them to respond more effectively upon subsequent challenges\, a process known a s\npriming. Primed genes have an enhanced transcriptional responsiveness u pon repeated exposure\nto stress\, while returning to baseline levels of e xpression in the absence of stimuli. These genes\nare thought to remain in ‘primed’ or ‘poised’ state\, with an altered chromatin landscape that\nfacilitates hyper-induction upon a recurrent stress event. We aim to synthetically recreate the\npathogen-primed state in Arabidopsis thaliana by targeted deposition of H3K4me3. To achieve\nthis\, we employ the CRISP R-based SunTag system to recruit the catalytic domain of SDG2\, a key\nhis tone methyltransferase responsible for H3K4me3 deposition in plants\, to t argeted promoters.\nOur work shows that H3K4me3 deposition by SunTag-SDG2 is sufficient to transcriptionally\nactivate the epigenetically silenced g ene FWA\, establishing that H3K4me3 itself can act as a causal\nregulatory mark. Next we demonstrate that SunTag-SDG2 can be employed to increase pa thogen\nresistance by targeting the H3K4me3-regulated disease resistance g ene\, SNC1. Extending this\napproach to pathogen memory\, we show that Sun Tag-directed H3K4me3 deposition can\nsuccessfully prime a WRKY-family tran scription factor\, further enhancing pathogen resistance.\nBeyond transcri ptional regulation\, targeting SunTag-SDG2 to low recombining centromeric\ nregions significantly increases proximal crossover formation. Together\, these findings establish\nthat locus-specific H3K4me3 deposition is able t o modulate transcription\, immunity\, stress\nmemory and recombination\, h ighlighting the potential of chromatin engineering as a tool for\nprecise modulation of important agricultural traits LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1340@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251215T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251215T140000 DTSTAMP:20251209T130655Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-eman-khatib -massalha-university-of-cambridge-united-kingdom/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar -Eman Khatib-Massalha (University of Cambridge\, Un ited Kingdom) [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Eman Khatib-Massalha \ n Affiliation: University of Cambridge\, United Kingdom)\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students\, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\n \;\n\ nNext week for our Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, Decembe r 15th\, we will have a talk by Dr. Eman Khatib-Massalha  of the Cambridg e Stem Cell Institute and Department of Hematology\, University of Cambrid ge\, United Kingdom. Dr. Khatib-Massalha will present a talk titled  "Fr om Defense to Dysregulation: Understanding Neutrophil Plasticity in Health and Disease".\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nTalk Abstract: \n\nNeutrophils ar e essential for immune homeostasis and are normally cleared by bone\n\nmar row macrophages to prevent inflammation and tissue damage. In\n\nmyeloprol iferative neoplasms (MPNs)\, myeloid malignancies driven by mutations\n\ns uch as JAK2 V617F \, neutrophils become abnormally long-lived and proinfla mmatory.\n\nMy research shows that JAK2 V617F neutrophils evade macrophage clearance through\n\nupregulation of the “don’t-eat-me” signal CD24 \, leading to their accumulation and\n\npathological interactions with meg akaryocytes that drive thrombocytosis and\n\nmyelofibrosis. Importantly\, genetic deletion or antibody blockade of CD24 restores\n\nneutrophil clear ance\, ameliorates disease features\, and prevents myelofibrosis.\n\nThese findings reveal defective neutrophil clearance as a key link between\n\ni nflammation and MPN progression and identify CD24 as a promising therapeut ic\n\ntarget.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you!\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1330@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251210T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251210T133000 DTSTAMP:20251109T094744Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-netali -snof/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Netali Snof [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/91065669587 Netali Snof\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associat e Prof. David Meiri \n Enhancement of Human CD8+ T Cell Cytotoxicity by e xtracts from Amanita muscaria and Psilocybin-Producing Fungi13\nPsychoacti ve fungi contain diverse metabolites with potential immunomodulatory prope rties. Here we investigated metabolites from two distinct pharmacological classes: serotonergic tryptamines from psilocybin-producing fungi and glut amatergic compounds from Amanita muscaria. In a screen of 38 mushroom ext racts\, we identified several that enhanced the function of Cytotoxic T L ymphocytes. The A. muscaria extract was superior to all others\, and sign ificantly effective in increasing the levels of the cytotoxic protein Gran zyme B. These findings highlight the potential of metabolites from psychoa ctive fungi as an underexplored source of novel immunomodulatory agents. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.u s/j/91065669587 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1338@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251208T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251208T140000 DTSTAMP:20251202T110902Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-series-dr-a mir-sapir-technion/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar Series – Dr. Amir Sapir (Technion) [No Categorie s] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Amir Sapir\n Affiliation: Department of Biolog y and the Environment\, The University of Haifa- Oranim Campus\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students\, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\n&nbs p\;\n\nNext week for our Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, D ecember 8th\, we will have a talk by Dr. Amir Sapir of the Department of Biology and the Environment\, The University of Haifa- Oranim Campus\, Hai fa\, Israel. Dr. Sapir will present a talk titled "Why do mosquitoes bite? cholesterol is a metabolic driver of blood feeding in mosquitoes".\n\n&nb sp\;\n\nTalk Abstract: \n\nMosquitoes experience a biphasic ecological\, dietary\, and metabolic life cycle\, yet the\n\nbiochemical principles gui ding these transitions remain poorly understood. Through dietary\n\nengine ering to establish sterol-defined larval and adult systems\, we studied th e possible role of\n\nsterol and steroid metabolism in the Asian tiger mos quito Aedes albopictus (A. albopictus). Here\n\nwe show that larval develo pment\, successful metamorphosis\, and adult emergence critically rely\n\n on the conversion of environmental plant and fungal sterols into cholester ol. In adults\, we\n\nengineered an artificial blood system that allowed c ontrolled manipulation of dietary sterols and\n\nrevealed that cholesterol is an essential metabolic driver of egg production. We further show that\ n\nfemales transfer substantial amounts of cholesterol to their eggs\, sup porting early larval\n\ndevelopment until the dietary conversion mechanism becomes transcriptionally activated. This\n\nactivation includes the expr ession of the dietary sterol-to-cholesterol conversion enzyme DHCR-\n\n24\ , which emerges as a key component of the regulatory transition from mater nal sterols to\n\nenvironmental sterols. Together\, these findings reveal a biphasic strategy in which larvae depend\n\non conversion of plant and f ungal sterols\, whereas adult females acquire cholesterol from blood\n\nfo r reproduction and for supplying eggs with cholesterol essential for early development\, a\n\nstrategy tightly linked to mosquito ecology. Our findi ngs highlight the central and stage-\n\nregulated role of sterol metabolis m in mosquito development\, reproduction\, and pathogenicity.\n\n \;\n \nSome details about his research and publications can be found at:\n\nhtt ps://asapirlab.weebly.com/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you!\nM aya END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1316@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251201T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251201T140000 DTSTAMP:20251125T132728Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculy-seminar-dr-ifat-sher -rosenthal/ SUMMARY:Faculy Seminar-Dr. Ifat Sher-Rosenthal-“From Bedside to Bench and Back - Personalized Drug Discovery for Retinal Degeneration" [No Categori es] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Ifat Sher-Rosent hal \n Affiliation: Shiba Medical Center\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dea r Biology Students\, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\n \;\n\nNext week for our Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, December 1st\, we will have a talk by Dr. Ifat Sher-Rosenthal of the Goldschleger Eye Institute \, Sheba Medical Center\, Tel Hashomer\, and Ophthalmology Department\, Gr ay Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences Tel-Aviv University\, Tel Aviv\,   Israel. Dr. Sher-Rosenthal will present a talk titled “From Bedside to Bench and Back - Personalized Drug Discovery for Retinal Degeneration". \n\n \;\n\nTalk Abstract: From Bedside to Bench and Back - Personalize d Drug Discovery for Retinal Degeneration\n\n \;\n\nThis seminar will present our laboratory’s integrative research on advanced\n\ndiagnostics and therapeutic strategies for retinal degenerative diseases. Our work\n\ nspans three core domains: (1) Patient-specific in vitro models: We employ stem\n\ncell technologies and tissue engineering to construct in vitro sy stems that replicate\n\ndisease pathology for mechanistic studies and drug screening. (2) Transgenic in\n\nvivo models: Rodent models are used to el ucidate disease mechanisms and\n\nassess the safety and efficacy of candid ate therapies\, facilitating clinical translation.\n\n(3) Non-invasive cli nical diagnostic platforms: We develop sensitive\n\ntechnologies for early detection of neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging the\n\neye as a window for brain health\, we advance objective diagnostics for disorders\n \nsuch as Alzheimer’s disease\, as well as AI-driven ocular imaging that can predict\n\nblood counts.\n\nThe presentation will outline our transla tional pipeline: from model development and\n\ndrug delivery optimization to preclinical validation and clinical application. I will share\n\nexampl es demonstrating how these steps drive neuroprotective therapy\n\ndevelopm ent.\n\n \;\n\nSome details about her research and publications can be found at:\n\nhttps://ifaat3.wixsite.com/restorative-retinal\n\n \;\n\ n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you!\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1315@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251124T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251124T140000 DTSTAMP:20251119T081750Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-schrag i-shwartz/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar-Prof. Schragi Shwartz [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Weizma nn Institute of Science\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Biology Students \, Postdocs\, and Faculty\,\n\n \;\n\nNext week for our Faculty Semina r Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, November 24th\, we will have a talk by D r. Schragi Schwartz of the Weizmann Institute of Science. Dr. Schwartz w ill present a talk titled “Methyl Marks and Molecular Heat Shields: How RNA Modifications Shape Function and Adaptation” .\n\n \;\n\nTalk Ab stract: Methyl Marks and Molecular Heat Shields: How RNA Modifications Sha pe Function and Adaptation\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nSimilar to DNA and pro teins\, RNA undergoes extensive post-synthetic modification. To\n\ndate\, more than 170 distinct modifications have been documented\, installed by a \n\ndiverse set of typically highly conserved enzymes\, many of which play essential roles in\n\nRNA structure and function and are implicated in hu man disease.\n\nIn the first part of my talk\, I will focus on N6-methylad enosine (m6A)\, the most\n\nprevalent internal modification on mRNA. Altho ugh m6A is found at hundreds of\n\nthousands of sites transcriptome-wide\, the rules governing its deposition remained\n\nunclear. I will describe o ur advances in deciphering this “m6A code\,” which provided key\n\nins ights into the determinants of specificity and the functional consequences of this\n\nmodification.\n\nIn the second part\, I will turn to ribosomal RNA (rRNA) modifications\, which we\n\ndissected using a newly developed genomic platform that enables systematic profiling\n\nof 16 distinct modif ications across dozens of samples in parallel. Applying this approach\n\nt o species spanning the tree of life—particularly unicellular extremophil es that thrive\n\nunder harsh physical\, chemical\, or biological conditio ns—we discovered striking\n\nevolutionary patterns. While dynamic rRNA m odifications are rare in mesophiles\, in\n\nextreme hyperthermophiles near ly half of all modifications proved to be dynamic.\n\nI will highlight one example: a conserved module of tandem m5C–ac4C modifications\,\n\nco-in duced at elevated temperatures by enzymes that are intrinsically temperatu re-\n\nresponsive and essential for growth under thermal stress. By integr ating genomic\,\n\nbiophysical\, and structural analyses\, we revealed a s ynergistic thermostabilizing\n\nfunction of this modification pair.\n\nTog ether\, these findings shed light on the critical contribution of rRNA mod ifications to\n\nribosome stability\, enabling ribosomes to preserve their structural integrity even at near-\n\nboiling temperatures that would oth erwise cause denaturation.\n\n \;\n\nSome details about his research a nd publications can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.weizmann.ac.il/molgen/schw artz/\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you!\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1331@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251119T123000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251119T143000 DTSTAMP:20251112T115119Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/bridge-to-industry-series-d r-yehezkel-hezi-sason-vp-rd-biolojic-design/ SUMMARY:"Bridge to Industry" Series: Dr. Yehezkel (Hezi) Sason\, VP R&D\, B iolojic Design [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Yehezkel (Hezi) Sason\n Affiliation: VP R&D\, B iolojic Design\n Host:\n You are invited to the fifth lecture in the "Brid ge to Industry" series:\n\nRedefining the Boundaries of Antibody Capabilit ies\nSpeaker: Dr. Yehezkel (Hezi) Sason\, VP R&\;D\, Biolojic Design\n\ nDr. Hezi Sason is a senior executive in the biotechnology industry and a scientist whose career has flourished at the intersection of biology\, inn ovation\, and drug development. Currently serving as Senior Vice President for Technological Research and Development at Biolojic Design\, Dr. Sason leads teams developing antibody-based therapeutics for severe diseases su ch as cancer and autoimmune disorders.\n\nCombining his academic backgroun d with extensive industrial experience\, Dr. Sason has led multiple resear ch programs that evolved from the lab to clinical trials. Some of these pr ograms were acquired by international pharmaceutical companies and are now in advanced stages of human testing.\n\nHe played a key role in developin g Biolojic’s unique AI-driven antibody design platform\, which has signi ficantly accelerated the company’s ability to create novel therapeutics. Throughout his journey\, Dr. Sason has demonstrated a deep commitment to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of scientists\, believing that the greatest breakthroughs emerge when diverse minds collaborate across d isciplines.\n\nIn this talk\, he will share not only the science but also the story behind the journey — how biology\, technology\, and teamwork c an unite to save lives.\n\nDate: Wednesday\, November 19\, at 13:00\nLocat ion: Biology Auditorium\n\nSchedule:\n12:30–13:00 Coffee and light refre shments – Lobby outside the auditorium\n13:00–14:00 Seminar – Biolog y Auditorium\n14:00–14:30 Open discussion with the speaker on “Bridge to Industry” – Auditorium Lobby\n\nJoin us for a fascinating journey o f discovery\, collaboration\, and innovation!\n[Click here to register] END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1314@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251117T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251117T140000 DTSTAMP:20251111T102721Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-dvir-ara n/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Dr. Dvir Aran-“Using Biomedical Data Science to Advance Precision Medicine and Digital Health” [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Dvir Aran\n Affili ation: \n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n Dear Faculty\,\n\n \;\n\nNext wee k\, we will have a lecture at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, November 17\, with a talk by Dr. Dvir Aran of our faculty of Biology\, at the Biology Auditori um.  Dr. Aran will present a talk titled “Using Biomedical Data Science to Advance Precision Medicine and Digital Health”.\n\n \;\n\nTalk A bstract:\nIn the seminar I will present an overview of my research program and the guiding themes that shape my lab’s work at the intersection of biomedical data science and precision medicine. I will discuss how we use computational and statistical approaches to analyze multidimensional biolo gical data\, from single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to clinical and real-world datasets\, to address key questions in human health. The talk w ill be organized around three areas that define our current and future wor k: understanding cellular heterogeneity\, dissecting tumor–immune intera ctions\, and developing AI systems for clinical decision-making.\n\n \ ;\n\nSome details about Dr. Arans' research and publications can be found at:\n\nhttps://aran-lab.com/author/dvir-aran/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forwar d to seeing you!\nMaya LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1329@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251112T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251112T140000 DTSTAMP:20251105T082510Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-dharan ibalan-kasiviswanathan/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Dharanibalan Kasiviswanathan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOMhttps://technion.zo om.us/j/99692061614 Dharanibalan Kasiviswanathan\n Affiliation: \n Host: Associate Prof. Shenhav Shemer\n  \;\n\nA controlled in vitro model o f disuse atrophy reveals that skeletal muscle drives its own wasting via e xtracellular vesicles \n\nWe established a controlled in vitro model of m uscle disuse using simulated microgravity\, eliminating systemic influence s. This model accurately recapitulates transcriptional and proteomic signa tures of inactive muscles in vivo. We discovered that extracellular vesicl es (EVs) secreted by unloaded myotubes induce catabolic signaling in recip ient muscle cells. Our findings reveal that skeletal muscle can drive its own disuse atrophy through EV-mediated communication. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOMhttps://technion.zoom.us/j/99692 061614 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1313@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251110T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251110T140000 DTSTAMP:20251103T160826Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-semninr-professor-g il-ast/ SUMMARY:Faculty Semninr: Professor Gil Ast- 3D Genome Organization Directs Alternative Splicing [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: Tel Av iv University\n Host:Dr\, Maya Maor-Nof \n I am very happy to open this ye ar’s Faculty Seminar Series at 1:00 p.m. on Monday\, November 10\, with a talk by Prof. Gil Ast of Tel Aviv University. Prof. Ast will present a talk titled “3D Genome Organization Directs Alternative Splicing.”\n\n  \;\n\nYou’re invited to enjoy pizza at 12:30 p.m. on Monday\, Novem ber 10\, at the Biology Auditorium.\n\n \;\n\nTalk Abstract:\nAlternat ive splicing is a major contributor to the creation of human genomic compl exity. However\, this comes at a price: it also contributes dramatically t o higher levels of genetic disorders and cancer. Understanding how alterna tive splicing drives human complexity is one of the major questions we add ress in my lab. We were the first to show that chromatin organization and epigenetic markers regulate alternative splicing. We demonstrated that the y exert this regulation by modulating the elongation rate of RNA polymeras e II. We further discovered that the genome contains two distinct gene arc hitectures—one that primarily resides in the nuclear center and another in the nuclear periphery. Cancer-associated mutations in each of these arc hitectures lead to different outcomes on alternative splicing. Overall\, I will present how 3D genome organization directs alternative splicing.\n\n  \;\n\nSome details about his research and publications can be found a t:\nhttps://www.astlab.sites.tau.ac.il/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to s eeing you!\nMaya\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1312@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251021T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20251021T140000 DTSTAMP:20251015T082649Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-berta- eliad/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Berta Eliad [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/99589054205 Berta Eliad\n Affiliation: \n Host : Associate Prof. Ayelet Lamm \n “Game of Edits” - A-to-I RNA Editi ng: Thrones of Regulation\, Gametogenesis and Embryogenesis\n\n \;\n\n Adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing\, catalyzed by ADARs\, is a wide spread and evolutionarily conserved modification needed to regulate innate immunity. Using C. elegans\, a powerful model for RNA editing research\, we reveal that ADAR subcellular localization affects its substrate prefere nces and function. We show that edited transcripts are maternally\, but no t paternally\, inherited\, and editing levels fluctuate during embryogenes is\, probably to control transcript expression.  LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/99589054205 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1310@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250918T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250918T133000 DTSTAMP:20250914T105138Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-barak- gutman/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Barak Gutman [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/95647741443 Barak Gutman\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n  \;\n\nImmune Profiling in CD59 Deficiency: From Single-Patient scRNA-seq to Therapeutic Insights\n\nCD59 deficiency is a rare disorder i n which cells are vulnerable to uncontrolled complement-mediated immune at tacks. To investigate its mechanisms of action\, we applied single-cell RN A sequencing (scRNA-seq) to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Be cause only one CD59-deficient patient sample was available\, we developed a pairwise differential expression pipeline that leverages multiple matche d controls and significantly reduces false-positive discoveries. Using thi s approach\, we uncovered a distinct exhausted immune profile marked by do wnregulation of NF-κB signaling and evidence of oxidative stress\, findin gs that illuminate the pathophysiology of CD59 deficiency and also suggest potential avenues for therapeutic intervention LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/95647741443 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1311@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250916T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250916T140000 DTSTAMP:20250914T110634Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-valeri a-tsvichenko/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Valeria Tsvichenko [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/95522568296 Valeria Tsvichenko\n Affiliation: \n Host:P rof. Debbie Lindell \n Phage Resistance in Synechococcus sp. WH8109 \n\n& nbsp\;\n\nPhage resistance plays a central role in shaping cyanobacterial population dynamics and their interactions with viruses in the ocean. The coexistence of resistant and susceptible cells is likely one of the proces ses enabling hosts and phages to persist together. Yet the patterns and ge netic basis of resistance are only partially resolved. Here\, I examined g enetically distinct populations of Synechococcus sp. WH8109 and found that resistance to the cyanophages Syn9 and S-TIP37 was consistently density-d ependent across host populations. Whole genome sequencing of Syn9-resistan t cyanobacteria revealed mutations in nine genes in the resistant strains. In a complementary approach\, I investigated two porin-like genes previou sly implicated in resistance to phages S-TIP37 and Syn5. However\, heterol ogous binding assays in E. coli did not conclusively establish their role in phage resistance. Together\, these studies integrate ecological and gen etic perspectives to advance understanding of the processes that govern ho st–phage coexistence in marine systems. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/95522568296 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1308@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250916T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250916T133000 DTSTAMP:20250909T054729Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-dolev- shmaltz/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Dolev Shmaltz-Ayal [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/95522568296 Dolev Shmaltz\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Yo ram Reiter \n Inside and Out: Antigen Type Shapes T-Cell Engager Performan ce Across Intracellular and Extracellular Targets\n\n \;\n\nBi-specifi c T-cell engagers (BiTEs) are engineered antibodies that redirect a patien t’s own T cells to attack tumors\, providing an “off-the-shelf” immu notherapy option alongside cell-based therapies like CAR T cells. Most BiT Es focus on surface proteins\, yet many of the most clinically relevant tu mor antigens reside inside the cell and are displayed only as peptide–MH C complexes. In this work\, we directly compared BiTEs targeting a convent ional melanoma surface antigen (MCSP) with BiTEs recognizing an intracellu lar peptide presented by HLA. Through analysis of T-cell activation\, cyto kine release\, and tumor cell killing across a range of antigen densities\ , we demonstrate that the route of antigen presentation decisively shapes therapeutic potency and functional outcomes. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/95522568296 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1309@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250915T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250915T140000 DTSTAMP:20250911T115612Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-christ oph-velling/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Christoph Velling [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/91646006232?pwd=qONDv5ujifMHOeKsXdQ2W5zByVjAF2.1 Christop h Velling\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Roy Kishony \n Spatio-temporal micr obial evolution dynamics\n\n In natural microbial communities\, antagonis tic interactions among bacterial species\, or between bacteria and phages\ , are important drivers of community evolution and ecological dynamics. Th ese natural environments often involve spatial structure\, which could be a key factor for evolutionary processes as well as for expansion dynamics into new spaces\, yet it is often neglected in microbial community experim entation and simulations. In this project\, we first studied evolution of antibiotic producers in microdroplets\, effectively forming small\, distin ct environments where direct competition with resistant bacteria is exclud ed and\, therefore\, selection for producers can occur. In the second part \, we modeled bacteria-phage interactions in an expanding bacterial wave i n space. We show how phage-resistant bacteria can protect sensitive bacter ia through an indirect slowdown of phage migration in a competition scenar io and how phages could potentially overcome this protection mechanism. To gether\, these studies help shed light on the complex spatio-temporal dyna mics of antagonistically interacting microbial species. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/91646006232?pwd=qONDv5ujifMHOeKsXdQ2W5zByVjAF2.1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1305@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250909T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250909T140000 DTSTAMP:20250904T132848Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-tylor- brent-de-leon/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Tylor-Tyler Brent de Leon [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: - https:// technion.zoom.us/j/4885283424 Tylor-Brent De-Leon\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Yoav Arava \n Locally synthesized glycyl aminoacyl tRNA synthetase ( GARS1) is important for  local translation in neurons\n\nRegulation of ge ne expression is essential for neuronal development and function. A promin ent regulatory mechanism involves synthesis of proteins at their activity site. Such local protein synthesis enables neurons to respond rapidly and tightly to stimuli. Key components of the translation machinery\, includin g mRNA and ribosomes\, were identified in subcellular regions of neurons. Yet\, the role of tRNAs and their charging enzymes\, aminoacyl tRNA synthe tases (aaRS)\, in this process remains largely unclear. Here\, we demonstr ate that glycyl tRNA synthetase (GARS1) mRNA is abundant in neurites and u ndergoes local translation\, producing GARS1 protein. Localized GARS1 prot ein is in close proximity to tRNAGly\, and disrupting this interaction imp airs local protein synthesis in neurites. Notably\, in a neuropathy-causin g mutant variant of GARS1\, we observed enhanced proximity to tRNAGly\, in dicating that altered GARS1– tRNAGly interactions may contribute to dise ase pathogenesis. These findings establish the functional importance of GA RS1 and tRNAGly in neuritic translation and suggest a mechanism for periph eral neuropathies due to mutations in GARS1. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: - https://technion.zoom .us/j/4885283424 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1304@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250909T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250909T133000 DTSTAMP:20250904T114048Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-dina-a lexandrovich/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Dina Alexandrovich [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM:- https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/4885283424 Dina Alexandrovich\n Affiliation: \n Host:P rof. Yael Mandel-Gutfreund \n Developing computational approaches for pred icting nucleic acid binding proteins and their targets\n\n \;\n\nNucle ic acid binding proteins\, and specifically DNA-binding proteins (DBPs) an d RNA-binding proteins (RBPs)\, play a central role in all steps of the ge ne expression pathway\, from RNA transcription via post-transcriptional re gulation to protein translation. Understanding the complexity of gene expr ession regulation requires the identification of RBPs and DBPs\, which are involved in these processes\, and to define their binding sites. To addre ss these challenges\, we developed BindUP-Alpha\, a machine learning-based algorithm for predicting nucleic acid-binding proteins based on protein s tructure models from AlphaFold.We also developed intRBP\, a deep learning model trained on high-throughput RNA-binding data\, which accurately predi cts the targets of RNA-binding proteins. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM:- https://technion.zoom.u s/j/4885283424 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1307@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250908T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250908T140000 DTSTAMP:20250907T065924Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-netane l-amiel/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Netanel Amiel [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/95534105252 Netanel Amiel\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associat e Prof. David Meiri \n The cumulative effect of cannabinoids on the immun e system in IBD mouse models\n\n \;\n\nInflammatory bowel disease (IBD ) is a chronic\, relapsing inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal t ract\, and current therapies often rely on immunosuppression with limited long-term success. To explore alternative strategies\, we examined the pot ential of cannabinoids to modulate both adaptive and innate immune pathway s relevant to IBD. Previous work in our lab showed that cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) affected the adaptive immune system by reducing pro-inflammatory T cell responses\, while a combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidiva rin (CBDV) acted on innate immunity by limiting CXCR4-dependent recruitmen t of inflammatory cells to the gut. We hypothesized that combining these c ompounds might provide additive or synergistic benefits by targeting compl ementary arms of the immune system. Using both acute and chronic DSS-induc ed colitis models in mice\, we assessed disease severity under separate an d combined treatments. While each treatment effectively reduced disease se verity\, the combination did not yield additive effects\, pointing the nee d for further exploration of cannabinoids in gut inflammation LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/95534105252 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1306@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250908T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250908T133000 DTSTAMP:20250904T115224Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-hannah -eda-rand/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Hannah Eda Rand [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/95534105252 Hannah Eda Rand\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Na dav Sharon \n Investigating MMP12⁺ Macrophages as Potential Modulators o f Islet Vulnerability in Type 1 Diabetes\n\nType 1 diabetes is an autoimmu ne disease that leads to the selective destruction of insulin-producing pa ncreatic beta cells in the islets of Langerhans. Notably\, MMP12-expressin g macrophages appear predominantly in non-attacked islets. In line with th eir reported anti-inflammatory function in cancer\, we hypothesize that MM P12⁺ macrophages may play a protective role in T1D. To test this\, I use RNAscope to validate the scRNAseq findings in Non-Obese Diabetic (NOD) mi ce\, spatial transcriptomics to confirm their presence in human tissue\, a nd am working to create a transgenic mouse model to manipulate the cells. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/95534105252 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1303@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250826T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250826T140000 DTSTAMP:20250724T080246Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-jonath an-ram/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Jonathan Ram [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/93938772814 Jonathan Ram\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Mic hael Glickman\n  \;\n\nNew players in mitochondrial protein import qua lity control13\n\nMitochondria import most of their proteins from the cyto sol via dedicated channels in the outer membrane. This process is complex\ , and import can occasionally stall when proteins get stuck in transit. Wh ile the role of the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) in this context is well established in yeast\, it remains poorly understood in mammalian cel ls. We performed a proximity-based screen to identify UPS components near the mitochondrial import channel and uncovered novel interactors. Among th em\, we identified UBXD8 and investigated its role in the quality control of mitochondrial protein import. These findings not only expand our unders tanding of mitochondrial proteostasis in mammals\, but also reveal UBXD8 a s a potential regulator of import channel homeostasis. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/93938772814 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1302@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250819T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250819T140000 DTSTAMP:20250722T113934Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-sunu-j oseph/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Sunu Joseph [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Sunu Joseph\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Shenhav Shemer\n 13\n\nThe ubiquitin-proteasome system plays a crucial ro le in excessive muscle proteolysis during atrophy\, a condition triggered by inactivity\, starvation\, aging\, cancer\, and muscular dystrophies. Wh ile ubiquitin ligases (E3s) have been extensively studied in this process\ , the functions of E2 conjugating enzymes\, which facilitate ubiquitin tra nsfer with E3s\, remain poorly understood. Ube2h is an E2 ubiquitin-conjug ating enzyme with less understood cellular functions compared to E3 ligase s. Ube2h is distinct in lacking a typical ubiquitin-binding surface and ha ving a unique disordered C-terminal region. Our data suggest that Ube2h pr omotes fasting-induced muscle atrophy by impairing insulin signaling via i ts C-terminal region. In addition\, Ube2h reduces desmin integrity by targ eting the heat shock protein Hspb1 for degradation\, facilitating desmin d epolymerization and the resulting loss of the contractile machinery.0:0011 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1301@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250812T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250812T133000 DTSTAMP:20250715T071927Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-shahar -lavid/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Shahar Lavid [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/96544365611 Shahar Lavid\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Ben jamin Podbilewicz \n  Title: Structure Prediction and Sequence Phylogeny of Fusion Family (FF) Proteins Indicate a Common Ancestor in Nematodes and Horizontal Gene Transfer Origin in Non-Nematodes13\n\nThe fusexin superfa mily comprises proteins that mediate cell-cell fusion during viral infecti ons\, somatic development and sexual reproduction\, and have also been ide ntified in Archaea. Among them\, a subfamily of FF proteins\, first identi fied in the nematode C. elegans\, exhibits a striking structural similarit y to Class II viral fusogens. This similarity\, however\, is absent at the sequence level\, making their evolutionary origin difficult to pinpoint. By analyzing the phylogenetic relationships and structural predictions of FF candidate ectodomains\, we present a phylogenetic inquiry of FF protein s in both nematode and non-nematode species. Results show that nematodes h arbor two distinct FF subgroups\, which correspond to the C. elegans fusog ens EFF-1 and AFF-1 and align with nematode phylogeny. In contrast\, the g eneral phylogeny of FF in non-nematode species diverges from broader inver tebrate evolution. The results reveal the variable origins of FF proteins and suggest divergence in their structural properties as well\n\n \; LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/96544365611 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1299@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250722T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250722T140000 DTSTAMP:20250702T150957Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-joshua -hazan/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Joshua Hazan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/94162344686 Joshua Hazan \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Assa f Bester \n  \;\n\nA toolkit to decipher mechanistic insights of long non-coding RNAs based on guided CRISPR screens\n\nLong non-coding RNAs (ln cRNAs) are a large and diverse group of non-protein-coding genes whose fun ctions span a wide range of cellular processes in healthy cells and in the progression of various diseases. Despite their potential roles in many ma jor cellular processes\, the molecular function of the majority of lncRNAs remains unknown. To improve the strategy for lncRNA identification\, we d eveloped two strategies to discover novel functional lncRNAs and character ize their molecular mechanisms of action. First\, we developed a machine l earning called INFLAMeR to predict functional lncRNAs in a cell type-speci fic manner. INFLAMeR showed high predictive accuracy\, and we saw that the lncRNA SNHG6 affected haematopoiesis in leukaemia cells.Second\, we desig ned a compact CRISPRi-based screening strategy called SPPARCL to identify new lncRNAs that function in diverse cellular stresses. Through this\, we saw that LINC00680 affects tRNA expression and ribosome assembly. Together \, these tools offer important new ways to identify lncRNAs that function in health and disease. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/94162344686 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1298@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250721T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250721T140000 DTSTAMP:20250702T145905Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-peleg- ragonis-bachar/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Peleg Ragonis-Bachar [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/98805522689 Peleg Ragonis-Bachar\n Affiliation: \n Host:A ssociate Prof. Meytal Landau\n Towards the Design of Targeted Therapeutics based on Microbial and Antimicrobial \n\n \;\n\nAmyloids\, long thou ght to be defined by their classic cross-β fibril structure\, have recent ly revealed a surprising new form: the cross-α architecture built from α -helices—shifting our fundamental understanding of protein self-assembly . Harnessing cutting-edge computational tools that combine secondary struc ture prediction with AI-driven biochemical analysis\, I discovered dozens of novel amyloid-forming peptides\, including unique structural variants w ith distinct antimicrobial functions. These findings expose the astonishin g structural and functional diversity hidden within amyloids\, challenging the traditional dogma that structure dictates pathology. Additionally\, u sing sequence-based AI model we were able to correlate between various bio chemical property of a sequence to the amyloid structure and function. Ult imately\, this work opens new frontiers for precisely targeting pathologic al amyloids or designing next-generation antimicrobial agents. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/98805522689 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1297@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250715T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250715T133000 DTSTAMP:20250701T085506Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/7604/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Tamar Gil [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Place: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: http s://technion.zoom.us/j/97752400169 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Roy Kish ony\n High-throughput mapping of transposon-driven genomic rearrangements under antibiotic stress\n\n \;\n\nTransposons and insertion sequence ( IS elements) facilitate bacterial adaptation to antibiotics through two ma in mechanisms. In regular transposition (insertion)\, an IS is excised fro m the genome and inserted at a target site. In replicative transposition\, each side of the IS attaches to another genomic locus\, joining them toge ther as it duplicates. These transpositions generate genomic rearrangement s and repeats\, which cannot be resolved by short reads. To overcome this challenge\, we couple inverse PCR with paired-end sequencing\, to jointly capture both IS flanks. Joint sequencing is achieved by fragmenting genomi c DNA\, self-ligating the fragments\, and PCR with outward-facing primers to target the now-fused flanks of the IS. We apply this method to IS1 in E . coli populations exposed to antibiotics\, and identify over 100 insertio n sites\, and a variety of locus-joining events. Comparison with control p opulations suggest adaptive amplification events via homologous recombinat ion between ISs\, as well as replicative transpositions. LOCATION:Place: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion. zoom.us/j/97752400169 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1300@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250708T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250708T140000 DTSTAMP:20250707T065050Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/special-seminar-prof-ting-c hen/ SUMMARY:Special Seminar - Prof. Ting Chen [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Ting Chen \n Affiliation: T singua University\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOn Tuesd ay\, July 8th\, we are delighted to host Prof. Ting Chen of Tsingua Unive rsity for a special research seminar. Prof. Chen is a leading figure in co mputational biology and medical informatics.  After earning his Ph.D. at SUNY Stony Brook\, he lectured at Harvard and then spent sixteen years on the faculty of the University of Southern California\, before joining Tsin ghua University in 2016\, where he now directs the Center for Big Data Res earch in Medicine and Health. His work spans genome analysis\, machine-lea rning algorithms for biomedical data\, and large-scale health-data platfor ms\, and it has garnered more than 40\,000 citations.\n0:0013:00\nPlease m ake an effort to attend and pass this notice to others at the Technion who may be interested.\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Tuesday July 8 th at 13:00.\n\nTitle: AI Models for Rare Disease Diagnosis\, Treatment\, and Intelligent Medical Inquiry\n\nSpeaker webpage: https://www.cs.tsinghu a.edu.cn/csen/info/1312/4385.htm\n\nGoogle scholar: https://scholar.google .com/citations?user=yE6LvhMAAAAJ\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing y ou all\,\n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nDvir Aran\, PhD\nAssistant Professor\n\nFac ulty of Biology \\ Taub Faculty of Computer Science\n\nTechnion - Israel I nstitute of Technology\n\nhttps://aran-lab.com13:00 LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1286@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250708T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250708T140000 DTSTAMP:20250521T101431Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/special-seminar-prof-ting-c hen-ai-models-for-rare-disease-diagnosis-treatment-and-intelligent-medical -inquiry/ SUMMARY:Special Seminar - Prof. Ting Chen-AI Models for Rare Disease Diagno sis\, Treatment\, and Intelligent Medical Inquiry [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Ting Chen \n Affiliation: T singua University \n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n On Tuesday\, July 8th\, we are d elighted to host Prof. Ting Chen of Tsingua University for a special rese arch seminar. Prof. Chen is a leading figure in computational biology and medical informatics.  After earning his Ph.D. at SUNY Stony Brook\, he le ctured at Harvard and then spent sixteen years on the faculty of the Unive rsity of Southern California\, before joining Tsinghua University in 2016\ , where he now directs the Center for Big Data Research in Medicine and He alth. His work spans genome analysis\, machine-learning algorithms for bio medical data\, and large-scale health-data platforms\, and it has garnered more than 40\,000 citations.\n\nPlease make an effort to attend and pass this notice to others at the Technion who may be interested.\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Tuesday July 8th at 13:00.\n\nTitle: AI Models for Rare Disease Diagnosis\, Treatment\, and Intelligent Medical Inquiry\n \nSpeaker webpage: https://www.cs.tsinghua.edu.cn/csen/info/1312/4385.htm\ n\nGoogle scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=yE6LvhMAAAAJ\ n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\, LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1295@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250701T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250701T133000 DTSTAMP:20250701T073443Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-ekatar ins-petrenko/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Ekaterina Petrenko [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/97497946716 Ekatarins Petrenko\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Dv ir Aran\n  Age-dependent differences in neuroblastoma microenvironment: i ntegrative analysis of human and mouse single-cell RNA sequencing data\n\n  \;\n\nThis research investigates the molecular basis of age-dependent outcome disparities in neuroblastoma\, the most common extracranial solid tumor in children\, where patients under 18 months show dramatically bett er survival rates than older children. We developed CellMentor\, a novel s upervised non-negative matrix factorization method that leverages labeled reference datasets to learn biologically meaningful latent spaces for sing le-cell RNA sequencing analysis. Using both mouse models and human patient data\, we discovered age-specific differences in the tumor microenvironme nt\, particularly in neutrophil populations that may contribute to better outcomes in younger patients. This work provides new computational tools a nd biological insights that could inform age-tailored therapeutic approach es for pediatric neuroblastoma. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 97497946716 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1296@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250630T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250630T140000 DTSTAMP:20250629T054551Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-ayala-sh iber-30-6-2025/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Ayala Shiber 30.6.2025 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Ayala Shiber\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr. Ay ala Shiber from the Technion Faculty of Biology\n\n \;\n\nPlace and ti me: Biology auditorium\, Monday 30/6 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Co-tra nslational protein folding\, assembly and quality control\, in health and disease\n\n \;\n\nDr. Shiber’s website: https://shiberlab.wixsite.c om/shiber\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n&n bsp\;\n\nThe full list of this semester’s speakers can be found here: Fa culty Seminars Spring 2025\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the cours e or to receive a Zoom link\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeir i@technion.ac.il>\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1294@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250625T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250625T140000 DTSTAMP:20250624T061542Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-raz-be n-david/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Raz Ben-David [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/95719561465 Raz Be n-David\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Shenhav Shemer\n Intermitte nt Fasting to Attenuate Age-Related Muscle Atrophy In Aging C57BL/6 Mice:\ n\nStudy of the Underlying Molecular Mechanisms\n\n \;\n\nSarcopenia\, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength\, contributes to frailty \, impaired mobility\, and metabolic dysfunction. Traditional intervention s\, such as resistance training and increased protein intake\, are not alw ays feasible\, leading to investigation into alternative strategies. This study investigated whether intermittent fasting can attenuate age-related atrophy\, with particular focus on the preservation of the dystrophin-glyc oprotein complex (DGC) and its associated signaling hub involving plakoglo bin and the insulin receptor. Young (3-6 months)\, middle-aged (12-15 and 15-18 months)\, and old (18-21 months) male C57BL/6 mice underwent 12-week regimens of either time-restricted feeding (TRF\; 8-hour feeding/16-hour fasting)\, alternate-day fasting (ADF\; fasting every other day)\, or ad l ibitum (AL) feeding. Outcomes measured included body composition\, muscle mass and function\, glucose metabolism\, anabolic signaling\, muscle histo logy\, and fiber-type distribution. LOCATION:ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/95719561465 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1293@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250624T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250624T133000 DTSTAMP:20250622T110930Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-adva-k fir/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Adva Kfir [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/98815143098 Adva Kf ir\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Ayala Shiber\n  \;\n\n \;\n\nSplit-A DAR System to Detect in vivo Co-translational Cooperativity in Single-Mole cule Resolution\n\n \;\n\nProtein biogenesis is challenging in the cro wded cellular environment\, where off-pathway interactions can lead to pro tein aggregation - a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases. To maintain p rotein homeostasis\, cells employ an intricate network of ribosome-associa ted factors that regulate folding\, localization\, and complex assembly co -translationally. Yet\, how these factors coordinate their dynamic binding to translating ribosomes remains poorly understood. Here\, we developed a single-molecule approach that combines Nanopore sequencing of full-length transcripts with mRNA proximity labelling using a split-ADAR system. We h ave provided a proof of concept for the robustness of this approach in det ecting even transient co-translational interactions at the ribosome. Using this system\, we have demonstrated evidence for co-translational cooperat ivity between the highly conserved ribosome-associated factors Map1 and Na tA along single transcripts. LOCATION:ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/98815143098 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1292@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250617T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250617T140000 DTSTAMP:20250615T064500Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-hanna- saleem/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Hanna Saleem [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/93897432505 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Emeritus Dina R on and Associate Professor Shenhav Shemer\n Unveiling a new human SEF (IL- 17RD) function in breast cancer prevention LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/93897432505 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1291@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250616T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250616T140000 DTSTAMP:20250612T060840Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-ifat-she r-16-6-2025/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Ifat Sher 16.6.2025 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Dr. Ifat Sher\n Affiliation: She ba Medical Center and Tel-Aviv University\n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr. Ifat Sher from the Sheba Medical Center and Tel-Aviv University\n\n \;\n\nPlace and t ime: Biology auditorium\, Monday 16/6 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: From Bedside to Bench and Back: Personalized Drug Discovery for Retinal Degener ation Diseases\n\n \;\n\nDr. Sher’s website: https://ifaat3.wixsite .com/restorative-retinal\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\, \n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nThe full list of this semester’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Spring 2025\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries rega rding the course or to receive a Zoom link\, please contact Prof. Dedi Me iri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1290@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250609T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250609T140000 DTSTAMP:20250603T102723Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-shay-ste rn-9-6-2025/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Shay Stern 9.6.2025 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Dr. Shay Stern \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will b e given by Dr. Shay Stern from the Technion’s Faculty of Biology.\n\n&nb sp\;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 9/6 at 13:00.\n\n  \;\n\nTitle: Organization and regulation of developmental patterns of beha vior and individuality\n\n \;\n\nDr. Stern’s website: https://www.ss ternlab.com/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\ n \;\n\nThe full list of this semester’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Spring 2025\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the co urse or to receive a Zoom link\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dm eiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1289@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250603T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250603T140000 DTSTAMP:20250528T134458Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-yahav- festinger/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Yahav Festinger [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/8522459764?omn=91894620721 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Associ ate Professor Ayelet Lamm\n  Identification of false discoveries in seque ncing data\n\n \;\n\nSequencing techniques are fundamental in almost a ll genetic research\, either by sequencing the entire genome or transcript ome\, by high-throughput sequencing\, or by sequencing a small segment of DNA using Sanger sequencing. The biggest challenge in all techniques is id entifying noise and false discovery versus real biological changes. There are not many tools available that can be used for data exploration and the identification of false discoveries. Here\, we developed an algorithm on RNA-seq data to track discrepancies between the data and the statistical m odel design that enables optimal data analysis. In addition\, we developed a Sanger sequencing analyzer that quantifies and determines if a SNP is s equencing noise. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/8522459764?omn=91894620721 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1287@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250527T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250527T140000 DTSTAMP:20250521T103016Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-eshkar -nir/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Eshkar Nir [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/95717334601 Eshkar Nir\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Stern Shay \n Studying developmental patterns of social interactions in C. elegans an d their effects on individuality\n\nIndividuals within the same population dynamically change their social interactions across development. Understa nding how these long-term inter-individual behavioral interactions are mod ified across different stages of development and the neuronal pathways inv olved remains unclear. We developed and utilized a novel imaging setup to study behavioral interactions of multiple pairs of C. elegans across devel opmental timescales. We found that wild-type animals show dynamic patterns of social interactions that increase in frequency and change in duration in a stage-specific manner. We further revealed that these long-term socia l patterns are shaped by specific sensory modalities\, in particular\, mec hanosensation and chemosensation. Moreover\, we found that the social cont ext also affected consistent individuality within the pairs during early d evelopmental stages. Our results highlight an active role for sensory path ways in organizing the developmental dynamics of social behavior and their effects on individual variation. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 95717334601 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1288@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250526T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250526T140000 DTSTAMP:20250525T080931Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/aculty-seminar-prof-amit-ze isel-26-5-2025-single-cell-approaches-to-studying-connectivity-and-neurona l-states-during-fear-learning/ SUMMARY:aculty seminar - Prof. Amit Zeisel  26.5.2025-Single-cell approac hes to studying connectivity and neuronal states during fear learning [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Amit Zeisel \n Affiliation: Technion’s Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering \n Host:Dr. Sh ainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by P rof. Amit Zeisel from the Technion’s Faculty of Biotechnology and Food E ngineering\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 26/5 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Single-cell approaches to studying connecti vity and neuronal states during fear learning\n\n \;\n\nProf. Zeisel ’s website: https://zeisellab.org/\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nLooking forw ard to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nThe full list of this semes ter’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Spring 2025 LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1285@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250519T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250519T140000 DTSTAMP:20250514T101940Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-einat-se gev-19-5-2025-in-person-bacterial-physiology-in-an-environmental-context/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Einat Segev 19.5.2025 [In-person]-Bacterial Physiology in an Environmental Context [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Dr. Einat Segev \n Affiliation: Weizmann Institute of Science \n Host:\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur nex t seminar will be given by Dr. Einat Segev from the Weizmann Institute of Science\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 19/5 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Bacterial Physiology in an Environmental Cont ext\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nMicroorganisms have evolved in the cold\, n utrient-poor oceans for millions of years\, yet laboratory studies often u se conditions that differ greatly from their natural habitats. To better u nderstand the physiology of marine bacteria\, our group investigates model systems that closely mimic real-world environments. This approach allows us to reveal novel behaviors of marine microbes.\n\nBeyond basic environme ntal factors like temperature and nutrient availability\, marine bacteria are also shaped by interactions with algal hosts. These interactions range from competition to cooperation\, and significantly influence bacteria\, algae\, and ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling and food web stab ility.\n\nIn my talk\, I will present our recent findings on bacterial phy siology in the context of algal interactions\, with a focus on how bacteri a transition from starvation to active growth. I will highlight how algal cues can shorten the bacterial lag phase and trigger specific physiologica l responses\, illustrating how microbial interactions shape bacterial beha vior\, and ultimately\, marine ecosystems.\n\n \;\n\nProf. Segev’s w ebsite: https://www.weizmann.ac.il/plants/segev/\n\n \;\n\nLooking for ward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nThe full list of this seme ster’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Spring 2025\n\n  \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course or to receive a Zoom link\, pleas e contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1280@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250513T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250513T140000 DTSTAMP:20250427T083743Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-laila- bishara/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Laila Bishara [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium\, https:https://technion.zoom.us/j /95485558065 Laila Bishara\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Nabieh Ayoub\n C8orf33: A novel regulator of DNA double strand break repair choice\n\nLiv ing organisms are continuously exposed to exogenous and endogenous DNA-dam aging agents that form DNA lesions. One of the most cytotoxic types of DNA lesions is double strand break (DSB) and its defective repair triggers ge nomic instability and carcinogenesis. DSBs are repaired through two main r epair pathways: homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end joini ng (NHEJ). While HR ensures accurate repair\, NHEJ is a rapid but mostly m utagenic repair pathway. Maintaining the balance between HR and NHEJ is cr ucial for preserving genomic stability. Consequently\, there is increasing interest in elucidating the molecular mechanisms that govern DSB repair p athway selection. Here\, we identify the uncharacterized C8orf33 protein a s a novel regulator of DSB repair choice. Our data reveal that C8orf33 is a nuclear protein localized predominantly to the nucleolus and accumulates at DSB sites within both nuclear and nucleolar regions. We demonstrate th at C8orf33 promotes NHEJ and suppresses HR repair of DSBs. Mechanistically \, we show that C8orf33 alters the epigenetic mark histone 4 lysine 16 ace tylation (H4K16ac)\, which controls the recruitment of NHEJ and HR factors to DSB sites. Accordingly\, C8orf33 deficiency elevates HR repair which r esults in genomic instability\, as evidenced by the loss of nucleolar DNA content and increased cell lethality. Collectively\, our findings establi sh C8orf33 as a critical regulator of DSB repair pathway choice\, safeguar ding genomic integrity. LOCATION:Biology auditorium\, https:https://technion.zoom.us/j/95485558065 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1283@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250512T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250512T140000 DTSTAMP:20250506T055954Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/special-faculty-seminar-pro f-naama-barkai-12-5-2025-in-person/ SUMMARY:Special Faculty seminar - Prof. Naama Barkai 12.5.2025 [In-person] [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Naama Barkai \n Affiliation : Weizmann Institute of Science \n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n  \;\n\nDe ar all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Naama Barka i from the Weizmann Institute of Science\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Bio logy auditorium\, Monday 12/5 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to s eeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nThe full list of this semester’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Spring 2025\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course or to receive a Zoom link\, please contact  Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1281@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250506T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250506T140000 DTSTAMP:20250428T060044Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-gradutae-seminar-maya-l inial/ SUMMARY:PhD Gradutae Seminar- Maya Linial [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/8510874821 Maya Linial\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof\, Reiter Yoram \n  \;\n\nExploring How Antigen Type Shapes CAR T Cell Sensitivi ty and Function\n\n \;\n\nCAR T cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment\, yet challenges remain in targeting solid tumors.\nThis resear ch directly compares CAR T cells targeting two different types of antigens : a surface protein and a peptide MHC complex\, using a fully controlled s ystem.\nThe study reveals how antigen type influences CAR T cell sensitivi ty and function\, offering new insights for improving next-generation canc er immunotherapies. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 8510874821 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1282@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250505T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250505T140000 DTSTAMP:20250504T070353Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-alexan der-bershadsky-5-5-2025-in-person/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Alexander Bershadsky 5.5.2025 [In-person] [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Alexander Bershadsky \n Af filiation: Weizmann Institute of Science and The Mechanobiology Institute\ , National University of Singapore\n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n \n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Alexander Bershadsky from the Weizmann Institute of Science and The Mechanobiology Institute\, National University of Singapore\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology aud itorium\, Monday 5/5 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Integrin-based Adhesio ns in a Crosstalk with Actomyosin Cytoskeleton and Microtubules\n\n \; \n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nThe full li st of this semester’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Sprin g 2025\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course or to receive a Zo om link\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\ ; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1279@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250428T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250428T140000 DTSTAMP:20250427T070343Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-gali-p rag-28-4-2025-in-person/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Gali Prag 28.4.2025 [In-person] [No Categor ies] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Gali Prag\n Affiliation: th e School of Neurobiology\, Biochemistry & Biophysics\, Tel-Aviv University .\n Host:Prof. Dedi Meiri \n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar wil l be given by Prof. Gali Prag from the School of Neurobiology\, Biochemis try &\; Biophysics\, Tel-Aviv University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 28/4 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: The Art o f Allostery: Inhibiting Pocketless Enzymes.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nThe full list of this semester ’s speakers can be found here: Faculty Seminars Spring 2025\n\n \;\n \nFor inquiries regarding the course or to receive a Zoom link\, please co ntact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1278@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250423T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250423T140000 DTSTAMP:20250421T112523Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/special-faculty-seminar-dr- saurav-mallik-23-4-2025/ SUMMARY:Special Faculty seminar - Dr. Saurav Mallik 23.4.2025 [No Categorie s] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium\, Dr. Saurav Mallik\n Affiliation : Department of Molecular Genetics\, Weizmann Institute of Science.\n Host :Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nWe will have a special facul ty seminar given by Dr. Saurav Mallik from the Department of Molecular Gen etics\, Weizmann Institute of Science.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biolo gy auditorium\, Wednesday 23/4 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Molecular Or igami and the Hidden Rules of Protein Complex Evolution.\n\n \;\n\nLoo king forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal LOCATION:Biology auditorium\, END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1277@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250422T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250422T140000 DTSTAMP:20250407T135703Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-liron- sulimani/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Liron Sulimani [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: \n Affiliation: \n Host:\n Title:  Multi-Omics Pro filing of Endocannabinoid System Remodeling in Aging Alzheimer’s Disease Mice\n\nThe endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in regulati ng brain homeostasis\, inflammation\, and aging. In this seminar\, I will present new findings on how the ECS is altered in Alzheimer's disease usin g the 5xFAD mouse model across different ages. By combining targeted lipid omics of endocannabinoid ligands with quantitative proteomics\, we identif ied age- and genotype-dependent changes that point to dysregulation of neu roprotective pathways. Notably\, levels of the endocannabinoid-like molecu le PEA decreased in parallel with increased expression of its degrading en zyme NAAA in 5xFAD mice. These shifts may contribute to enhanced neuroinfl ammation and neurodegeneration. Our integrative approach sheds light on th e molecular interface between aging\, ECS imbalance\, and Alzheimer’s pa thology. These findings open new directions for therapeutic intervention t argeting the ECS in neurodegenerative disease END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1274@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250401T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250401T140000 DTSTAMP:20250330T073904Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-rinat- indig/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Rinat Indig [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/93635760084 Rinat Indig\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Meytal Landau\n  \;\n\n Modulating Virulent Amyloids Via Nuclei c-Acid and Small Molecules\n\nProteins and peptides can aggregate into amy loid fibrils\, while their formation\, structure and function are influenc ed by environmental and biological factors. Amyloids have diverse roles in different organisms. In bacteria\, amyloids contribute to key characteris tics and processes\, such as virulence and biofilm formation\, that provid e a shield against immune responses and antibiotics. Two examples of such bacteria are Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa which secret e the amyloid proteins PSMα and Fap\, respectively. Our work revealed sev eral compounds that selectively inhibit these amyloids. Moreover\, we foun d that RNA and DNA significantly accelerated Fap fibrillation and broadene d the fibrillation conditions. Our findings advance the understanding of a myloid involvement and interactions within the biofilm\, opening the way f or developing therapeutic strategies against biofilm-forming bacteria. LOCATION:Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/93635760084 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1275@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250401T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250401T133000 DTSTAMP:20250330T074129Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-carmel -beard/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Carmel Beard [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/93635760084 Carmel Beard\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Ga di Schuster \n CBR: A Novel High-Light Expressed Protein and its Potentia l for Carotenoid Binding\n\nChlorella ohadii\, a green desert microalga\, is notable for its ability to thrive under extreme high-light intensities\ , a trait attributed to its efficient photoprotection mechanisms that miti gate photoinhibition. A novel thylakoid membrane protein\, Carotenoid Bios ynthesis Related (CBR)\, has been identified in high-light-grown cells of this alga. This protein is suspected to be a carotenoid-binding protein an d\, therefore\, a crucial component of the alga's photoprotective response . This study reports on the successful overexpression of recombinant CBR p rotein in E. coli. The expressed protein was then subjected to renaturatio n and purification\, and subsequently reconstituted with native pigments. These procedures provide the necessary reagents for future in-depth struct ural and functional studies of CBR. LOCATION: Hybrid - in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.u s/j/93635760084 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1273@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250326T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250326T140000 DTSTAMP:20250323T103335Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-mona-k abha/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Mona Kabha [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/95404467857 Mona Kabha\n Affiliation: \n Host: Dr. Noga Ro n-Harel\n T Cell Dysfunction in Aging and Disease\n\nMy research focuses o n T cell immunity in two contexts of dysfunction: (1) Inborn errors of imm unity\, focusing on CARMIL2 deficiency\, where we identified defective met abolic reprogramming and partially restored T cell activation through meta bolic supplementation. (2) Age-related immune dysfunction. We used a Chime ric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell model in mice to investigate how aging a ffects immunotherapy. We found that aging reduces CAR T cell production\, shifts their phenotype toward effector memory CD4+ T cells\, and induces non-specific cytotoxicity driven by heightened granzyme B secretion. A sim ilar phenotype in young T cells transferred into aged hosts suggests these dysfunctions are driven by the aged microenvironment. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 95404467857 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1271@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250319T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250319T140000 DTSTAMP:20250306T092540Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-haya-d ahamshy/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Haya Dahamshy [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/93244858609 Haya Dahamshy\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Asaf B ester\n "Identification and characterization of DNA damage response lncRNA by spatial-temporal analysis”\nLong non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerg ing as key regulators of cellular function\, with their spatial and tempor al expression playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. Among the m\, LINC00944 stands out for its dynamic response to DNA damage\, showing a striking increase in nuclear expression following the DNA damage respons e (DDR). This lncRNA actively shapes cellular fate by regulating the cell cycle through p21 and driving apoptosis via BCL2 and γ-H2AX. Beyond its r ole in DDR\, our findings reveal an unexpected and significant influence o f LINC00944 on inflammation and immune response pathways. This dual functi onality suggests that LINC00944 is not just a participant in DNA repair bu t also a key player in broader stress response networks. Unraveling its me chanisms could open new avenues for understanding how cells balance surviv al\, repair\, and immune activation in response to damage LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 93244858609 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1272@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250317T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250317T140000 DTSTAMP:20250310T095133Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-maya-s udman/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Maya Sudman [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM: https://technion.zoom .us/j/92240169966 Maya Sudman\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. PHILIPPA MELAM ED\n The effect of adrenarche on the reproductive axis\n\nAdrenarche is a developmental process almost unique to humans in which the adrenal glands produce high levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) ~2-3 years before pub erty. Although the function of adrenarche is not known\, premature adrenar che often leads to early puberty and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). W e hypothesized that these DHEA effects involve epigenetic modification. We examined DNA methylation levels in proxy tissues from a large cohort of c hildren\, and found levels around several puberty and PCOS-related genes w ere linked to DHEA levels. We then used a novel animal model for adrenarch e\, the spiny mouse\, to investigate changes in gene expression in reprodu ctive tissues during their natural adrenarche-like state\, and after prepu bertal adrenalectomy (ADX) and DHEA rescue. Our findings provide new insig hts into how DHEA affects the reproductive axis maturation leading up to p uberty\, and at high levels may predispose to PCOS. LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/9224016 9966 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1270@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250312T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250312T140000 DTSTAMP:20250304T083554Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-shai-f ainsod/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Shai Fainsod [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/8390283157?pwd=Zy2htiYbEt3feUXUbQQ8GedcbkR1qv.1&omn=962931784 11 Shai Fainsod\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Oded Beja \n Exploring Lig ht Acclimation in Microalgae\n\nLight availability drives biochemical and molecular adaptations in aquatic algae. We studied eukaryotic algae in the red-shifted-light Hula Lake via spectral incubations and transcriptomic p rofiling. Photosystem-I adjustments (up-regulated LHCA1 and LHCA4) dominat ed under red and green-lights\, and darkness\, while cryptophyte phycobili proteins increased in red and green-lights. A key chlorophyll biosynthesis enzyme also showed enrichment\, highlighting acclimation to varying light conditions. This community-wide transcriptomic study reveals how algae re program their molecular machinery. Our findings advance understanding of l ight-driven ecological adaptations and potential impacts on aquatic ecosys tems.\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/8390283157?pwd=Z y2htiYbEt3feUXUbQQ8GedcbkR1qv.1&\;omn=96293178411\n\nZoom passcode: 472 LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 8390283157?pwd=Zy2htiYbEt3feUXUbQQ8GedcbkR1qv.1&omn=96293178411 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1268@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250305T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250305T140000 DTSTAMP:20250220T130905Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-dor-sh alev/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Dor Shalev [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/94977953065 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. PHILIPPA MELAMED\,Prof. YA EL MANDEL-GUTFREUND \n The roles and regulation of Mkrn3 in mouse hypotha lamic neurons\n\nMakorin Ring Finger Protein 3 (MKRN3) functions as a "pub ertal brake\," and loss-of-function mutations in MKRN3 are the most common genetic cause of central precocious puberty\, which sees activation of th e reproductive axis at an abnormally young age. MKRN3 expression in the br ain decreases significantly leading up to puberty\, suggesting a repressiv e role on the hypothalamic GnRH which comprises the master regulator of re production. However\, the factors driving this drop in MKRN3 levels\, as w ell as its downstream targets are not known. Through extensive computation al analysis of bulk and single cell RNA sequencing data from rodent brain samples across development\, combined with experimental studies in a mouse GnRH neuronal cell line\, we identified the developmentally upregulated r eceptor\, Acvr1c\, as a repressor of Mkrn3 expression though activation of Smad2/3 signaling. This repression involves the recruitment of the transc ription factor Kap1\, and the induction of repressive histone modification s at the Mkrn3 gene locus. Additionally\, we generated and integrated vari ous multi-omics data from GnRH-producing neurons: Mkrn3 protein and RNA in teractomes\, as well as proteome and transcriptome data following Mkrn3 ov erexpression. These analyses revealed a predominant role for Mkrn3 in regu lating a large number of proteins\, primarily via translation. Moreover\, we found that Mkrn3 binds Gnrh1 mRNA\, along with Igf2bp2 which interacts directly with Mkrn3\, providing novel insights into the mechanisms through which Mkrn3 affects pubertal timing. LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/94977953 065 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1269@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250303T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250303T133000 DTSTAMP:20250226T142355Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/m-sc-graduate-seminar-tal-i fargan-the-faculty-of-data-and-decision-sciences/ SUMMARY:M.Sc. Graduate Seminar-Tal Ifargan (The Faculty of Data and Decisio n Sciences) [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/95712138406 Tal Ifargan\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Kishony Roy \n AI-Driven Research and Trait Aware Representations of Medical Diag nostics\n\n \;\n\nAbstract\n\n \;\n\nThis seminar is devoted to tw o separate projects:\n\n \;\n\nAs AI promises to accelerate scientific discovery\, it remains unclear whether AI systems can perform fully auton omous research and whether they can do so while adhering to key scientific values\, such as transparency\, traceability and verifiability. Mimicking human scientific practices\, we built data-to-paper\, an automation platf orm that guides interacting LLM agents through a complete stepwise researc h process\, from annotated data to comprehensive research papers\, while p rogrammatically back-tracing information flow\, resulting in “data-chain ed” manuscripts. Testing the platform on diverse datasets\, it produced autonomously correct papers in 80%-90% of runs for simple datasets and res earch goals\, yet human interventions became critical for more complex tas ks. Our work demonstrates a potential for AI-driven acceleration of scient ific discovery in data-driven research and beyond\, while setting through “data-chaining” a new standard for verifiability and traceability for the coming era of AI-driven science.\n\n \;\n\nElectronic health recor ds offer significant potential for uncovering trait-specific patterns and advancing personalized medicine. Various methods\, mainly borrowed from na tural language processing\, have been proposed to represent International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes\, yet these approaches often yield representations that are difficult to quantify and primarily serve predict ive tasks. Here\, we present TAR—a method for Trait-Aware Representation s of ICD codes implemented as a modified skip-gram model and demonstrate i ts ability to explore sex-specific differences in medical diagnostics\, a topic often overlooked in prior literature. In collaboration with Maccabi Healthcare Services\, we trained TAR on 25 years of data from 1.3 million patients\, revealing sex-dependent dynamics of aging. In addition\, the le arned embeddings encode the concept of sex as a distinct direction. Overal l\, TAR presents sex-specific diagnostic differences\, and is readily exte ndable to other phenotypic traits\, offering a versatile tool for broader biomedical discovery. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 95712138406 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1267@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250212T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250212T140000 DTSTAMP:20250203T110712Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-david- ezuz/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- David Ezuz [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https:https://technion .zoom.us/j/8372688367 David Ezuz\n Affiliation: \n Host:dr. Noga Ron-Har el\n Heme toxicity in the aged spleen impairs T-cell immunity through iron deprivation\n\n \;\n\nMechanisms of T cell aging involve cell-intrins ic alterations and interactions with other immune and stromal cells. Here\ , we investigated how the tissue microenvironment influences T-cell aging trajectories. Spleen-derived lymphocytes exhibited greater functional decl ine compared to those from lymph nodes\, with proteomic analysis revealing increased expression of heme detoxification and iron storage proteins in aged spleen-derived lymphocytes. Exposure to the aged spleen microenvironm ent or to heme induced multiple aging phenotypes in young lymphocytes\, in cluding reduced proliferation and upregulation of CD39. T cells survived t he hostile microenvironment of the aged spleen by restricting iron uptake and maintaining low labile iron pools. Nevertheless\, vaccination response s in aged mice were enhanced by timed iron infusions. Our findings undersc ore a trade-off between T cell survival and function in the aged host\, an d highlight the bidirectional relationship between T cells and their micro environment. Understanding these mechanisms will inform strategies to enha nce immune responses in the elderly. LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https:https://technion.zoom.us/j/83 72688367 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1266@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250205T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250205T140000 DTSTAMP:20250202T134644Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-junyi- he/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Junyi He [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/9592170138?omn=99221930350 Junyi He\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Ayal a Shiber \n Identification and characterization of novel quality control factors acting in a co-translational manner\n \;\n\nAt the critical ju nction of translation and protein folding\, the ribosome serves as a centr al hub\, orchestrating the actions of various factors that facilitate the maturation of emerging polypeptide-chains. However\, ribosome associated q uality control mechanisms\, safeguarding the cell from early misfolding\, remain largely obscure. Here we identify and characterize specific degrada tion and sequestration factors\, acting on the ribosome\, when co-translat ional protein complex assembly interactions are perturbed. Combing ribosom e profiling and ribosome-targeted proteomics approaches\, we discover a no vel quality-control pathway for complex subunits that fail to assemble int o functional complexes. LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/95921701 38?omn=99221930350 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1254@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250203T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250203T140000 DTSTAMP:20241230T092536Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/science-communication-works hop-how-to-present-your-research-effectively-2/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar -Dr. Avner Wallach: Science Communication Workshop for graduate students\, part 2 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Avner Wallach\n Af filiation: \n Host: \n Science Communication Workshop:\n\nHow to present y our research effectively\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nSecond meeting:3/2/2025\ , Four volunteers will give their presentation and will receive feedback f rom the audience (focusing on the presentation rather than the content). LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1265@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250129T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250129T140000 DTSTAMP:20250120T122848Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-jonath an-cohen/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Jonathan Cohen [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/92510662307 Jonathan Cohen\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. M eiri David \n Join us for a seminar exploring the metabolomic diversity of psilocybin-producing fungi and their effects on immune-related disorders. This research combines standardized extraction and analytical methods wit h metabolomic analysis and in vivo models to identify species-specific clu sters exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. The findings shed light on the role of fungal metabolites\, beyond psilocybin\, in mediating the immu ne response. LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/92510662 307 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1253@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250127T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250127T140000 DTSTAMP:20241230T092352Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/science-communication-works hop-how-to-present-your-research-effectively/ SUMMARY:Dr. Avner Wallach : Science Communication Workshop for graduate stu dents\, part 1 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/91374645319 Dr. Avner Wallach\n Affiliation: \n Host:\n Our nex t seminar will be given by Dr. Avner Wallach from the Faculty of Biology\, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology\n\nPlace and time: Biology audi torium\, Monday 27/1 at 13:00.\n\nTitle: Science Communication Workshop fo r graduate students\, part 1\n\nHow to present your research effectively\n \nThe faculty offers a short workshop to help graduate students better pre sent their research in scientific meetings. The workshop will be given ahe ad of the Faculty’s yearly retreat\, which will take place in February\, in which graduate students are expected to present their research to the Faculty.\n\nThe workshop will include two meetings that will take place in stead of the weekly seminar (Mondays\, 1 pm).\n\n How do you tailor your presentation to the audience?\n How do you plan your presentation?\n Wha t is the role of presentation aids\, and what is the difference between th e two common formats – the slide-deck and the poster?\n\nAfter the meeti ng students will work on their presentations for the Faculty retreat\, imp lementing the principles discussed in class.\n\nSecond meeting:3/2/2025\, Four volunteers will give their presentation and will receive feedback fro m the audience (focusing on the presentation rather than the content). LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9137 4645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1264@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250120T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250120T140000 DTSTAMP:20250116T094442Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-daria-am iad-pavlov-20-1/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Daria Amiad Pavlov 20.1 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/91374645319 Dr. Daria Amiad Pavlov \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Inba l Shainer \n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr . Daria Amiad Pavlov from the Perelman School of Medicine\, University of Pennsylvania.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 20 /1/2025 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Mechano-regulation of gene expressi on in striated muscle\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nIn recent years\, the cel l nucleus emerged as a dynamic mechanosensor capable of sensing and transd ucing mechanical signals into cellular responses to facilitate homeostasis and adaptation to changing environmental conditions. The constantly beati ng heart has a remarkable ability to adapt its structure and contractility in response to changes in mechanical load. I am introducing unique\, live \, and dynamic imaging approaches to investigate how nuclei in the mature heart can provide such mechano-regulation of the genome while also protect ing the genome from excessive forces. I will present a novel assay to coup le cytoskeletal to nuclear strain transfer in the beating cardiomyocyte\, and its further application to decipher mechanisms of nuclear damage in di lated cardiomyopathy caused by mutations in the LMNA gene (LMNA-DCM). Thi s work pinpoints localized microtubule-dependent forces\, but surprisingly not actomyosin contractility\, as drivers of nuclear damage in LMNA-DCM\, highlighting new therapeutic avenues. I will further discuss the role of mechanical signaling in spatial organization of the genome within the nucl eus\, to regulate transcriptionally active and repressed hubs\, and downst ream gene expression.\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing y ou all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/913 74645319 LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645 319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1263@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250113T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250113T140000 DTSTAMP:20250106T154747Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-oliver -hobert-13-1-2025-2/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Oliver Hobert 13.1.2025 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/91374645319 Prof. Oliver Hobert \n Affiliation: Department of Biolo gical Sciences\, Columbia University. \n Host:Dr. Inbal Shainer \n Dear a ll\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Oliver Hobert from the Department of Biological Sciences\, Columbia University.\n\n  \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 13/1/2025 at 13:00.\n\n& nbsp\;\n\nTitle: Homeobox genes and the specification of cell types in the brain\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nThe enormous diversity of cell types in any animal model system is defined by neuron type-specific gene batteries that endow distinct cells with distinct anatomical and functional properti es. I will show that the diversity of neuronal cell types in the nematode C. elegans can be reduced to a simpler descriptor\, the combinatorial exp ression of a specific class of transcription factors\, encoded by homeobox genes. I propose that the preponderance of homeobox genes in neuronal ide ntity control reflects an evolutionary trajectory in which an ancestral ne uron type was specified by an ancestral homeobox genes and that this funct ional linkage then duplicated and diversified to generate distinct cell ty pes in an evolving nervous system.\n\n \;\n\nHobert lab website: https ://www.hobertlab.org/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\ nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645319\n\ n \;\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645 319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1260@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250113T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250113T140000 DTSTAMP:20241224T141316Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-oliver -hobert-13-1-2025/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Oliver Hobert 13.1.2025 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/91374645319 Prof. Oliver Hobert\n Affiliation: Department of Bi ological Sciences\, Columbia University. \n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOn January 13th the faculty seminar will be given by Prof. Oliver Hobert from the Department of Biological Sciences\, Columbia University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 13/1 /2025 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Homeobox genes and the specification of cell types in the brain\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nThe enormous diversi ty of cell types in any animal model system is defined by neuron type-spec ific gene batteries that endow distinct cells with distinct anatomical and functional properties. I will show that the diversity of neuronal cell ty pes in the nematode C. elegans can be reduced to a simpler descriptor\, t he combinatorial expression of a specific class of transcription factors\, encoded by homeobox genes. I propose that the preponderance of homeobox g enes in neuronal identity control reflects an evolutionary trajectory in w hich an ancestral neuron type was specified by an ancestral homeobox genes and that this functional linkage then duplicated and diversified to gener ate distinct cell types in an evolving nervous system.\n\n \;\n\nHober t lab website: https://www.hobertlab.org/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom .us/j/91374645319\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the cou rse\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;\n\n  \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9137 4645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1262@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250108T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250108T140000 DTSTAMP:20250101T095815Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-adi-sh apira/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Dr. Adi Shapira [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/91700637178 Adi Shapira\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Reiter Yoram\n  \;\n\nTCR-like Antibodies for B Cell Malignancies. Can They Overcome Resistance to Antibody-Based CAR T Cells?\n\nChimeric antigen receptor (CA R) T cells directed at the CD19 surface protein are an effective treatment for refractory B cell  leukemia and lymphoma.\n\nDespite high response r ates\, many patients will experience relapse with loss of CD19 at the time of relapse\n\nTCR-like (TCRL) antibodies are designed to bind a peptides presented in the context of an HLA molecule\, and therefore expand the tar get repertoire of tumor associated antigens to include intra-cellular prot eins. In this study we aimed to address the phenomenon of CD19 negative re lapse following CAR T cell therapy using the TCRL approach. We have succes sfully isolated TCRL antibodies with specific binding to a complex of HLA- A2 and CD19-derived peptides.  TCRL-based CARs were generated and exhibit ed effective killing of multiple B cell malignancies\, including cells wit h loss of surface CD19. This study provides proof-of- concept for the targ eting of HLA-peptide complex using TCRL based therapies as means to overco me resistance to conventional CAR T cell therapy. LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/91700637 178 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1261@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250106T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20250106T140000 DTSTAMP:20241231T113938Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-neta-gaz it-shimoni-6-1/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Neta Gazit Shimoni 6/1 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom. us/j/91374645319 Dr. Neta Gazit Shimoni\n Affiliation: Department of Neu roscience\, University of California at Berkeley\n Host:Dr. Inbal Shainer \n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr. Neta Gaz it Shimoni from the Department of Neuroscience\, University of California at Berkeley.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 6/1 /2025 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Regulation of Brain Function and Dis ease by Neuropeptides\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\ nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645319\n\ n \;\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;\n\n \; LOCATION:Biology auditorium and by ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645 319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1259@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241223T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241223T140000 DTSTAMP:20241217T072724Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-dor-russ -23-12-molecular-mechanisms-of-plant-microbiome-assembly-from-bacterial-ge nes-to-host-specificity/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Dor Russ 23.12 -"Molecular Mechanisms of Plan t Microbiome Assembly: From Bacterial Genes to Host Specificity" [No Categ ories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/91374645319 Dr. Dor Russ \n Affiliation: University of North Ca rolina at Chapel Hill\n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\n Our next seminar will be given by Dr. Dor Russ from the Department of Biol ogy\, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 23/12 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Mol ecular Mechanisms of Plant Microbiome Assembly: From Bacterial Genes to Ho st Specificity\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nIn nature\, plants recruit a div erse microbial community\, the plant microbiome\, that is distinct from th e surrounding soil community. That microbial community is essential for  plant growth and health. To understand the forces that shape the plant mic robiome we need to characterize the microbial traits that contribute to pl ant colonization. We used barcoded mutant libraries to identify bacterial genes that contribute to the colonization of a monocot and a eudicot host. Our analysis revealed dozens of colonization genes\, with most showing un expected host and organ specificity\, suggesting fine-tuned adaptation to distinct plant niches. We characterized two key mechanisms governing plant -microbe interactions. First\, we identified an efflux pump system prevale nt across Pseudomonadota that specifically facilitates Arabidopsis thali ana shoot colonization. By exploiting natural variation across A. thaliana  accessions\, we demonstrated that this pump selectively detoxifies gluco sinolate breakdown products\, suggesting commensal bacteria have evolved p rotection against collateral damage from plant defense responses targeting herbivores and pathogens. Second\, we discovered a unique adaptation in S phingomonas species involving dual copies of the flagellin gene (FliC). Wh ile one highly conserved copy triggers plant immune responses and mediates attachment\, the second\, more divergent copy enables motility and evade  immune recognition. This result is consistent with evolutionary conflict driving epitope recognition by the host. Our findings provide fundamental insights into the molecular mechanisms shaping plant microbiome assembly providing a framework for understanding and engineering plant-microbe as sociations.\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n \nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645319\n \n \;\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contac t Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9137 4645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1258@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241216T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241216T140000 DTSTAMP:20241210T071305Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-sahar-me lamed-small-rnas-orchestrate-bacterial-phage-dynamics/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Dr. Sahar Melamed -"Small RNAs Orchestrate Bacter ial-Phage Dynamics" [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Sahar Melamed\n Affiliation: Department of Micr obiology and Molecular Genetics\, Faculty of Medicine\, The Hebrew Univers ity of Jerusalem\n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur n ext seminar will be given by Dr. Sahar Melamed from the Department of Micr obiology and Molecular Genetics\, Faculty of Medicine\, The Hebrew Univers ity of Jerusalem.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monda y 16/12 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Small RNAs Orchestrate Bacterial-Ph age Dynamics\n\n \;\n\nMelamed lab website: https://melamed-rna-lab.hu ji.ac.il/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n&n bsp\;\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645319\n\n  \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1257@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241211T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241211T140000 DTSTAMP:20241204T133755Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-yuval- moshe-haizler/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Yuval Moshe Haizler [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/99669094452 Yuval Moshe Haizler\n Affiliation: ool of B iochemistry\, Neurobiology & Biophysics\, the Faculty of Life Sciences\, T el-Aviv University.\n Host:Prof. Levenberg Shulamit \n Hydroxyapatite Depo sition for 3D Bioprinting of Vascular Bone\n \nAbstract\nThis study inves tigates hydroxyapatite deposition within a bio-ink composed of fibrin\, co llagen\, thrombin\, calcium\, and phosphate for the 3D bioprinting of vasc ularized bone tissue. A key objective was to examine the natural hydroxyap atite nucleation and growth on collagen fibers within the engineered tissu e during the printing and maturation processes. The bio-ink’s rheologica l properties were optimized to ensure precise printability and structural stability. Hydroxyapatite formation under physiological conditions was suc cessfully demonstrated\, mimicking natural bone mineralization. The findin gs showcase the bio-ink’s potential as a scalable and personalized solut ion for bone regeneration\, paving the way for future in vivo and clinical applications. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/99669094452 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1255@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241211T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241211T133000 DTSTAMP:20241201T104523Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-sharon -fitoussi/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Sharon fitoussi [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/99669094452 Sharon Fitoussi\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof . Podbilewicz Benjamin\n The understanding of pathological body wall muscl e cell fusion mediated by ectopic expression of the fusogen - EFF-1 in Cae norhabditis elegans.\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nIn vertebrates\, skeletal muscle develops through myoblast fusion\, forming a vast multinuclear stru cture\, while other muscles such as smooth muscles do not fuse. In Caeno rhabditis elegans\, body movement is coordinated through unfused body wall muscle (BWM) cells\, whereas other muscle tissues rely on cell fusion req uiring the fusion protein EFF-1. To study the role of cell fusion in muscl es\, we induced the ectopic expression of EFF-1 in BWMs. We found that thi s treatment induced cell merger and an uncoordinated dumpy morphology\, in dicating that cell fusion is detrimental for BWMs function. Using modified mosaic analysis\, we provide evidence that EFF-1 expression is required o n both fusing cells\, consistent with a bilateral and homotypic mechanism of fusion. These findings expand our knowledge of the consequences of path ological muscle fusion\, with potential implications in different diseases . LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/99669094452 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1256@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241209T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241209T140000 DTSTAMP:20241204T070949Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-yoav-g othilf-9-12/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Yoav Gothilf 9.12 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/91374645319 Prof. Yoav Gothilf\n Affiliation: ool of Bio chemistry\, Neurobiology & Biophysics\, the Faculty of Life Sciences\, Tel -Aviv University.\n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Yoav Gothilf from the School of Bioche mistry\, Neurobiology &\; Biophysics\, the Faculty of Life Sciences\, T el-Aviv University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Mon day 9/12 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Genetic dissection of the biologic al clock using zebrafish as a model.\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\nAnimal fit ness largely depends on its ability to perform certain behaviors and physi ological processes at particular times of the daily cycle. Such temporal r egulation is mainly the outcome of an internal timing mechanism known as t he circadian clock. In fish\, and other non-mammalian vertebrates\, the pi neal gland contains an intrinsic circadian oscillator that drives the circ adian rhythms of its hormonal signal (melatonin)\, and has been considered a key element in the circadian system.\n\nEmploying a dominant-negative s trategy we generated a transgenic zebrafish line in which the molecular cl ock is selectively blocked in the melatonin-producing cells of the pineal gland. As a result\, clock-controlled rhythms of melatonin production in t he adult pineal gland were disrupted and the rhythmic expression pattern o f the majority of clock-controlled genes in the adult pineal gland was abo lished. Importantly\, the amplitude of behavioral rhythms was substantiall y reduced\, but not completely eliminated. Thus\, the pineal clock plays a key role in modulating circadian rhythms of behavior\, but it is not the only regulatory component. To determine the role of other tissues in the c ircadian clock system and the hierarchal relationship among them\, we are currently employing the same dominant-negative transgenic approach to bloc k the clock at other tissues and cell types.\n\n \;\n\nGothilf lab web site: https://gothilflab.wixsite.com/gothilflab\n\n \;\n\nLooking forw ard to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technio n.zoom.us/j/91374645319\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;\n\n  \; LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/91374645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1252@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241202T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241202T140000 DTSTAMP:20241127T070917Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-paper-of-th e-month-winners-2-12-in-person/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Paper of the month winners 2.12 [In-person] [No C ategories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/91374645319 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n  \;\n\nBerta Eliad (Lamm Lab):\n\n"ADBP-1 regulates ADR-2 nuclear loc alization to control editing substrate selection"\, Nucleic Acids Research .\n\n \n\nFeras Machour (Ayoub Lab):\n\n"Harnessing DNA replication stres s to target RBM10 deficiency in lung adenocarcinoma"\, Nature Communicatio ns.\n\n \n\nJohannes Venezian (Shiber Lab):\n\n"Structural determinants o f co-translational protein complex assembly" cell- in press.\n\n \n\nGuy Levin (Schuster Lab):\n\n"Processes independent of nonphotochemical quench ing protect a high-light-tolerant desert alga from oxidative stress" Plant Physiology.\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 2/12 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n \nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645319\n \n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Ded i Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;\n\n \; LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/91374645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1251@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241125T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241125T140000 DTSTAMP:20241118T143117Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-yaniv-el kouby-25-11-in-person/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Dr. Yaniv Elkouby- "Illuminating Unpredicted Cell ular Machineries in Germ Cell Production and Reproduction" [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91374645319 Dr. Yaniv Elkouby\n Affiliation: Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research\, Faculty of Medicine\, The Hebr ew University of Jerusalem\n Host:Dr. Shainer Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \ ;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr. Yaniv Elkouby from the Departme nt of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research\, Faculty of Medicine\, T he Hebrew University of Jerusalem.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology a uditorium\, Monday 25/11 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Illuminating Unpre dicted Cellular Machineries in Germ Cell Production and Reproduction\n\n&n bsp\;\n\nElkouby lab website: https://www.yanivelkoubylab.com/\n\n \;\ n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nInbal\n\n \;\n\nZoom link:  https://technion.zoom.us/j/91374645319 Please note that this is the update d link for this year!\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\; LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91374645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1250@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241120T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241120T140000 DTSTAMP:20241114T134711Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-adi-sh aked-levy-lab/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Adi Shaked (Levy Lab) [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/96190093354 Adi Shaked\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Levy Sagi\n Title: Uncovering Neuronal Plasticity Following Associative Memory in C. e legans\n\nAssociative learning enables animals to link a conditioned stimu lus\, like an odor\, with an unconditioned stimulus\, such as reward or pu nishment\, facilitating adaptive behavioral responses to changing environm ents. A central challenge in neuroscience is identifying specific neuronal sites where these associations are stored. To reveal learning-dependent n euronal changes\, we developed a setup to track neuronal plasticity in C. elegans following associative learning. Our microfluidic device is unique ly designed to enable imaging of neuronal responses to precise stimulation s across multiple animals simultaneously. Using this system\, we analyzed activity patterns of individual neurons as animals learned to associate an odor positively\, with food availability\, or negatively\, with starvatio n. We will present our findings on learning-dependent plastic changes in s ensory and premotor interneurons\, illuminating potential neural substrate s where associative memory may reside. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9619 0093354 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1249@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241120T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241120T133000 DTSTAMP:20241114T134836Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-huichi -cheng-kapln-lab/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Huichi Cheng (Kaplan Lab) [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/96190093354 Huichi Cheng\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof . Kaplan Ariel \n Title: "Using various single-molecular assays to measure the passage of RNA polymerase along the DNA template in optical tweezers" \n\nAbstract:\n\nTranscription is the subsequent step in the gene expressi on process. that started with the binding of RNA polymerases (RNAP) a DNA template and transcribing it\, leading to the release of an RNA molecule f rom the DNA template. Traditional "bulk" approaches are challenging to det ect the dynamic nature of the transcription elongation in real-time. Optic al tweezers offer a unique ability to address this problem. In my project\ , I sought to detect and characterize the RNAP movement utilizing and opti mizing several approaches in optical tweezers based on the literatures and our experimental conditions. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9619 0093354 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1248@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241118T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241118T140000 DTSTAMP:20241111T083846Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-yasmin e-meroz-plant-tropisms-as-a-window-on-plant-computational-processes/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar -Prof. Yasmine Meroz- "Plant Tropisms as a Window o n Plant Computational Processes" [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/91374645319 Prof. Yasmine Meroz \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sha iner Inbal\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Pr of. Yasmine Meroz from the School of Plant Science and Food Security and t he Center for Physics and Chemistry of Living Systems at Tel Aviv Universi ty.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 18/11 at 13: 00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Plant Tropisms as a Window on Plant Computational Processes\n\n \;\n\nAbstract: \n\nPlants generally move by growing t owards or away from directional environmental signals such as light or gra vity – processes called tropisms. While they are not motile\, they survi ve in a harsh and fluctuating environment\, optimizing their search for fl uctuating nutrients\, and predicting danger. They achieve this through com plex response processes\, such as decision-making\, based on memory\, or t he capability to accumulate and compare past stimuli. For example\, a plan t shoot accumulates sensory information from various fluctuating light sou rces\, decides which direction yields consistently most light for photosyn thesis\, and grows in that direction. Here we propose a reverse-engineerin g approach to investigating the underlying rules for the accumulation and integration of sensory inputs. Our theoretical model\, based on response t heory\, predicts that plants respond to the sum of stimuli at short timesc ales\, and to the difference in stimuli at longer timescales. We confirm t his experimentally and suggest that this process may be essential for navi gational problem-solving capabilities of plants.\n\n \;\n\nMeroz lab w ebsite: https://www.merozlab.com/\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;\n\n \ ;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9137 4645319 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1247@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241106T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241106T140000 DTSTAMP:20241030T074957Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/7147/ SUMMARY: [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/6057731604 Sijie Li\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Henn Arnon\n Title: Mitochondria dynamic and its translocation during cellular stress conditions\n\n \;\n\nAbstract \n\nMitochondria dynamics\, moti lity\, and translocation to distinct cellular regions by cytoskeleton-bas ed machinery are essential for adapting to eukaryote cells' physiological demands. Within this broad mitochondrial motility machinery\, the special ized function of actin-based motors has begun to emerge. Precisely\, it is not understood how mitochondrial motility is coordinated and regulated a nd how it is coupled to cellular processes to perform its functions. Usin g interdisciplinary approaches\, we show that mitochondria mobility to th e cell's leading edge upon EGF stimulation is manifested by a fission even t that enables mitochondria to reach filopodia in A431. Mitochondria trans location to the leading edge and filopodia required MT-and actin-based mot ors\, Kif5b and Myo19\, respectively\, and critically\, their cooperativit y. Importantly\, we have found that local calcium buffering affects Kif5b -mitochondria association but has no significant impact on Myo19-mitochond ria association both in-vivo and in-vitro. Hence\, we suggest a switch-o ver mechanism between MT- and actin-based motors in cargo transport in-cel ls such as mitochondria. Our finding supports coordination for mitochondri a motility that requires bridging between actin and MT-base motors. Mitoc hondria dynamics\, motility\, and cell positioning are essential in develo pment and homeostasis. Failure to regulate these processes directly leads to broad pathogenesis and many cell types. A comprehensive mechanism to de scribe the complete processes is still at large. My PhD thesis dissertatio n shed light on such biochemical pathways. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/6057 731604 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1246@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241103T093000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241103T113000 DTSTAMP:20241014T114310Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/2024-nobel-prize-insights-s ymposium/ SUMMARY:2024 Nobel Prize Insights Symposium [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: \n Affiliation: \n Host:\n We invite you to join us for an engaging informal symposium where we will present and explain this year's Nobel Prize-winning breakthroughs in the fields of Physics\, Chemi stry\, and Medicine.\nEach talk will present the initial groundbreaking di scoveries\, the scientists behind them\, and their lasting impact on scien ce and society.\n\nNobel Prize in Physics\nNeural Network\, AI- John J. Ho pfield and Geoffrey E. Hinton\nPresented by Dvir Aran and Roy Kishony\n\nN obel Prize in Chemistry\nProtein structure- David Baker\, Demis Hassabis a nd John M. Jumper\nPresented by Fabian Glaser\n\nNobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine\nmicroRNA- Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun\nPresented by Ayele t Lamm\nWhen: November 3rd\, 2024\, 09:30\nZoom Link: https://technion.zo om.us/j/99423710438\n \;\n\nOrganized by Roy Kishony and Sivan Geisler -Edelbaum\n\n \; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1245@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241029T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20241029T140000 DTSTAMP:20241008T124932Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-2/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Nikita Sarvin [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/2475665720?omn=93736958191 Nikita Sarvin\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Tomer Shlomi \n Untargeted screening for small-molecule enzym e inhibitors via high-throughput metabolomics\nOMICS-based screening offer s a promising approach for untargeted drug discovery. Recently\, mass-spec trometry metabolomics and proteomics was used for inferring drug mechanism of action and off-target effects\, analyzing cellular response to treatme nt with numerous clinically approved drugs and tool compounds. Here\, we d eveloped a novel high-throughput LC-MS metabolomics screening pipeline and computational target deconvolution method\, enabling the identification o f novel compounds modulating cellular metabolism. Training our Graph Neura l Network (GNN)-based method on time- and dose-dependent metabolic respons es of cultured cells treated with 76 known metabolic inhibitors\, we corre ctly identified the target pathway within the top three ranked pathways fo r ~50% of the drugs. Applying this approach to a diversity library of 1\,0 20 drug-like compounds\, we discovered five novel inhibitors targeting cli nically relevant pathways and enzymes involved in purine and pyrimidine bi osynthesis and redox metabolism. Our pipeline is readily scalable for scre ening thousands of compounds to identify new\, clinically relevant metabol ic inhibitors. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /2475665720?omn=93736958191 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1244@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240926T131500 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240926T141500 DTSTAMP:20240925T075322Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-suchet a-chopra/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Sucheta Chopra [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: https://technion.zoom.us/j/96220819823 Meeting ID: 9 62 2081 9823 Sucheta Chopra\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Fuchs Yaron and A ssociate Prof. Shalom-Feuerste Ruby\n Abstract:\n\nUnderstanding the intri cate mechanisms governing epidermal pattern formation\, particularly\n\nwi thin ectodermal appendages like hair follicles\, is a key pursuit in devel opmental biology.\n\nReciprocal interactions between mesenchymal and epith elial cells regulate hair follicle\n\ngrowth and development through vario us signaling pathways\, yet the underlying molecular\n\npathways remain el usive. Our investigation focuses on Thy1\, a cell surface protein tethered \n\nvia a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor\, which plays a multif aceted role in cell-cell\n\nand cell-matrix adhesion. We found that Thy1 s ignificantly influences hair follicle\n\ndevelopment through the YAP (Yes- associated protein) mediated signaling pathway. In-vivo\n\ndeletion experi ments revealed a marked increase in hair follicle numbers upon Thy1\n\ndel etion\, attributable to the activation of the YAP/Integrin-β1/Src module. Additionally\,\n\nemploying ultrasound-guided lentiviral delivery and pha rmacological inhibition\, we elucidated\n\nthe pronounced regulatory role of YAP in hair follicle morphogenesis\, further delineating the\n\nThy1-de pendent phenotypes. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of YAP activi ty in\n\nregulating hair follicle development\, shedding light on potentia l therapeutic implications for\n\nhair-related disorders and presenting ex citing prospects in the realm of regenerative\n\nmedicine applications. LOCATION:https://technion.zoom.us/j/96220819823 Meeting ID: 962 2081 9823 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1242@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240910T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240910T140000 DTSTAMP:20240828T081259Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-shiran -rachel-peretz/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar-Shiran Rachel Peretz [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/92090707928 Shiran Rachel Peretz\n Affiliation: \n Host:D r. Nadav Sharon \n In search of pancreatic beta cells with a regenerative potential\n\nShiran Rachel Peretz\n\n \;\n\nDepletion of β cell mass is a key characteristic of diabetes\, impairing insulin production and gl ucose regulation\, which sparks interest in restoring beta cell mass throu gh regeneration. While β cells rarely divide\, their expansion under spec ific conditions such as high-fat diet\, pregnancy\, or pancreatic injury s uggests that regulating mature β cell proliferation is possible. A key qu estion is whether all beta cells can proliferate or\, alternatively\, cert ain beta cell subsets have higher proliferative capacity.\n\nCharacterizin g dormant stem cell sub-populations is methodologically challenging becaus e the only way to determine if a cell has the potential to divide is to ob serve it proliferate\, but post-division\, its pre-proliferative character s may be lost and no longer observable.\n\nTo overcome the limitations of conditions that induce β cell proliferation\, we use an insulin receptor antagonist (S961)\, which acutely elevates blood glucose levels and mimics the type 2 diabetes state\, characterized by β cell proliferation.\n\nTo establish whether all beta cells can divide or not\, we adapted a CRISPR- based lineage tracing model (CARLIN) to become β cell specific\, enabling cell-specific genetic barcoding\, followed by triggering of beta cell rep lication. Disproportionate proliferation should lead to non-uniform barcod e distribution\, and thereby answer the question unequivocally.\n\nTo char acterize the proliferative cells further\, we combine S961-inducible repli cation with a tamoxifen-induced Ki67 Cre/loxp-TdTomato mouse model (M/T)\, which permanently labels dividing β cells and facilitates tracking them over time. Our results support the existence of a subpopulation of prolife rative β cells\, which is present in most islets.\n\n \; LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /92090707928 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1241@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240910T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240910T133000 DTSTAMP:20240826T155046Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-katery na-flyak/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Kateryna Flyak [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/92090707928 Kateryna Flyak\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Be njamin Podbilewicz \n Cell-cell fusion during C. elegans male tail morpho genesis\n\nCell-cell fusion is an essential process in the development and formation of body structures. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans serves as a good model organism for studying cell-cell fusion\, since about one-t hird of its cells undergo fusion during development.\nSpecifically\, I am interested in Rn.p (n = 1-9) male-specific hypodermal cells in the tail\, which fuse during its morphogenesis to form the male copulatory structure\ , an important organ for its mating behavior. The Rn.p cells fuse into two distinct groups - R1.p to R5.p cells fuse together to form the male tail seam (SET)\, while R6.p to R9.p cells fuse with the largest hypodermal syn cytium\, hyp7. However\, it remains unknown which fusion protein/s (i.e. f usogen/s) mediate the fusion of Rn.p cells. My results suggest that two kn own fusogens in C. elegans – EFF-1 and AFF-1 participate in the formatio n of the SET. However\, only EFF-1 appears to mediate the fusion of R6.p t o R9.p with hyp7 syncytium. This functional separation between more than o ne fusogen suggests that the formation of the SET is a highly regulated pr ocess.\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /92090707928 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1240@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240903T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240903T140000 DTSTAMP:20240827T125528Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-noa-af ik/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Noa Afik [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/9148448850?omn=98386595857 Noa Afik\n Affiliation: \n Ho st:Prof. Levenberg Shulamit\n The effect of cell-laden bioink preparation and 3D bioprinting process on cells and on tissue formation\nThis study ad dresses challenges in cultivated meat (CM) research\, driven by the increa sing demand for sustainable meat alternatives. With traditional meat produ ction raising environmental\, health\, and ethical issues\, alternative me thods\, such as 3D bioprinting has emerged as a promising solution. The re search aims to optimize 3D bioprinting by examining cell integrity and via bility\, and refining parameters for scalability and functionality. This w ork enhances our understanding of interactions between edible bioink and c ells\, advancing the development of innovative CM products LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/9148448850?omn=98386595857 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1239@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240903T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240903T133000 DTSTAMP:20240827T125504Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-alexan der-khokhlov/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Alexander Khokhlov [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/9148448850?omn=98386595857 Alexander Khokhlov\n Affiliat ion: \n Host:Associate Prof. Landau Meytal\n Structure-function Relations hips in fibril forming Antimicrobial peptide\nAmyloid-like fibrils formed by antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and microbial toxins hold significant pro mise as novel antimicrobial therapeutics and targets for antivirulence str ategies. This study explores the relationship between amyloidogenic and an timicrobial properties\, shedding light on the structural diversity and fu nctional implications of these self-assembled biomaterials. Our laboratory previously discovered the cross-α amyloid conformation\, which is unique ly different from the established amyloid structure associated with the cr oss-β conformation. Furthermore\, the lab discovered a unique 'chameleon' -like behavior in fibril polymorphism of several AMPs\, showing a secondar y structure switch from cross-β to cross-α configurations\, often induce d by exposure to bacterial membranes. This suggests a highly adaptive regu lation mechanism. To identify more such chameleon toxic peptides\, computa tional tools were developed by Peleg RagonisBachar (sequence-based) and It ai Bloch (structure-based). Candidate sequences were tested and characteri zed by experimental investigations. The experimental results corroborate t he predictive capabilities of the computational tools developed\, allowing us to identify dozens of toxic sequences that form fibrils\, which led to high resolution structure determination and structure-function relationsh ip studies. This work offers novel insights into the design and characteri zation of AMPs and virulence factors with amyloidogenic features.\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/9148448850?omn=98386595857 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1235@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240806T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240806T140000 DTSTAMP:20240710T131243Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-reut-s egal-erel/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Reut Segal-Erel [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91650895147 Reut Segal-Erel\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Sh lomi Tomer \n Overcoming Metabolic T-Cell Suppression in Cancer Immunother apy Using Metabolic Engineering\n\nCancer immunotherapy has shown remarkab le success in hematologic cancers but remains less effective against solid tumors due to metabolic suppression in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells limits nutrient availability\, leading to T-cell dysfunction.\n\nTo address this challenge\, we develope d a novel in vivo screening method to identify metabolic genes that enhanc e T-cell function through gene overexpression. Using this innovative strat egy\, we identified three candidate genes — SLC7A8\, G6PD\, and AKT1 — each showing substantial potential for improving T-cell function and are c urrently undergoing rigorous in vivo validation.\n\nOur approach to overco ming metabolic barriers in the TME could significantly enhance the efficac y of cancer immunotherapy\, paving the way for new and more effective trea tments for solid tumors.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91650895147 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1238@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240805T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240805T140000 DTSTAMP:20240731T095407Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-or-shaha r-cell-type-specific-detection-of-newly-synthesized-proteins-in-vivo-revea ls-neural-activity-dependent-translation-following-seizures/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Dr. Or Shahar-Cell-type-specific detection of new ly synthesized proteins in vivo reveals neural activity dependent translat ion following seizures [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/95890487524 Dr. Or Shahar \n Affiliation: MIGAL Galilee Rese arch Institute\, Tel-Hai Academic College.\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Dear all \,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr. Or Shahar from th e MIGAL Galilee Research Institute\, Tel-Hai Academic College.\n\n \; \n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 5/8 at 13:00.\n\n \;\ n\nTitle: Cell-type-specific detection of newly synthesized proteins in v ivo reveals neural activity dependent translation following seizures\n\n&n bsp\;\n\nShahar's lab website: https://www.migal.org.il/en/molecular-neur odynamics\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nDvir\n\n&nb sp\;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/95890487524\n\nFor inquirie s regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@tec hnion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 95890487524 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1231@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240730T010000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240730T020000 DTSTAMP:20240701T131239Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-feras- machour/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Feras Machour [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/96794050334 Feras Machour\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Nab ieh Ayoub \n Harnessing DNA replication stress to target RBM10 deficiency in lung adenocarcinoma\n\nBackground and Motivation: Lung cancer has the h ighest mortality rate among all types of cancer worldwide. Strikingly\, th e RNA-binding motif protein 10 (RBM10) is the most mutated splicing fact or in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) (~9-25% of all cases). Most RBM10 cancer mutations are loss-of-function\, correlating with increased tumorigenesis and limiting the efficacy of current LUAD targeted therapies. Remarkably\, therapeutic strategies leveraging RBM10 deficiency remain unexplored\, hi ghlighting the urgency for innovative approaches to target RBM10 loss in L UAD.\nResearch Goal: Exploit the high mutation rate of RBM10 in LUAD for s elective eradication of RBM10-mutated LUAD tumors.\nResults: We conducted a CRISPR-Cas9 synthetic lethality (SL) screen and identified ~60 RBM10 SL genes\, including WEE1 kinase. WEE1 inhibition sensitized RBM10-deficient LUAD cells in-vitro and in-vivo. Intriguingly\, we identified a splicing-i ndependent role of RBM10 in regulating DNA replication fork progression an d replication stress response\, which underpins RBM10-WEE1 SL. Mechanistic ally\, we reveal that RBM10 physically interacts with active DNA replicati on forks and modulates R-loop homeostasis to maintain replication fork sta bility.\nConclusions: Our data reveal an unexpected function of RBM10 in f ine-tuning DNA replication\, independent of its canonical splicing functio n. In a broader context\, these findings reveal an unexplored aspect of DN A replication regulation involving a noncanonical function of RNA splicing factors. Moreover\, our data provide an arsenal of therapeutic targets\, such as WEE1\, that can be utilized to target RBM10-mutated LUAD tumors wi th immediate clinical applicability. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /96794050334 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1237@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240729T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240729T140000 DTSTAMP:20240724T104934Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-papers-of-t he-month/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Papers of the Month [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Joshua Hazan\, Johannes Augus Ven ezian\, Guy Levin\, Dharanibalan Kasiviswanathan\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr . Dvir Aran\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nThis week we will have four short t alks by recent winners of the “paper of the month” award.\n\n Joshua Hazan\, Bester lab\nIntegration of transcription regulation and functional genomic data reveals lncRNA SNHG6’s role in hematopoietic differentiati on and leukemia (Journal of Biomedical Science\, 2024)\n Johannes Augus V enezian\, Shiber lab\nDiverging co-translational protein complex assembly pathways are governed by interface energy distribution (Nature Communicati ons\, 2024)\n Guy Levin\, Schuster lab\nDiverging co-translational protei n complex assembly pathways are governed by interface energy distribution (New Phytologist\, 2024)\n Dharanibalan Kasiviswanathan\, Shemer lab\nPro teasome gene expression is controlled by coordinated functions of multiple transcription factors (Journal of Cell Biology\, 2024)\n\n \;\n\nPlac e and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 29/7 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nLook ing forward to seeing you all\,\n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https:// technion.zoom.us/j/95890487524\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, ple ase contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1236@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240722T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240722T140000 DTSTAMP:20240716T093816Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-ravid- straussman/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Prof. Ravid Straussman [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/95890487524 Prof. Ravid Straussman\n Affiliation: departm ent of Molecular Cell Biology\, Weizmann Institute.\n Host: Dr. Dvir Aran\ n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Ravid S traussman from the department of Molecular Cell Biology\, Weizmann Instit ute.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 22/7 at 13: 00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: The Tumor Microbiome and its Effects on the Respo nse to Treatment\n\n \;\n\nMerkel's website: https://www.weizmann.ac.i l/mcb/Straussman/home\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\ nDvir\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/95890487524\n\n For inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\ ;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/95890487524 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1234@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240716T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240716T133000 DTSTAMP:20240708T125123Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-gali-t zlil/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Gali Tzlil [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/92948509720 Gali Tzlil\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Oded Beja \n Rhodopsin-carotenoid complexes in marine microorganisms\n\nMicro bial rhodopsins are retinal-bound\, light-activated membranal proteins fou nd in diverse aquatic microbes. In the ocean’s photic zone\, >\;50% of microbes harbor a rhodopsin gene\, potentially enabling their phototropic lifestyle. Recently\, our lab reported on the widespread binding of carot ene antennas to microbial rhodopsins\, suggesting a significant impact on rhodopsin-mediated phototrophy.\nThus far\, we have characterized novel an tennas-rhodopsin complexes only from a bacterial origin. In this project\, we screen for novel antennas-rhodopsin complexes from diverse microbial o rigins. Surprisingly\, we found antennas-rhodopsin complexes originating f rom marine planktonic Asgard Archaea. Furthermore\, we demonstrate that th is rhodopsin can bind diverse hydroxylated carotenoids (e.g.\, lutein\, di atoxanthin and fucoxanthin) and transfer energy. Our results indicate that the use of light-harvesting antennas in microbial rhodopsins is potential ly utilized by open ocean Asgard Archaea to support phototrophic lifestyle LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/92948509720 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1232@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240709T010000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240709T020000 DTSTAMP:20240724T064306Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-cameli a-shopen-gochev/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Camelia Shopen Gochev [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https:https:/ /technion.zoom.us/j/93961845291 Camelia Shopen Gochev\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Debbie Lindell \n Seasonality of infection:\nDynamics of c yanophage abundances and infection of their hosts\nMarine cyanobacteria ar e photosynthetic bacteria that are estimated to be responsible for a quart er of the ocean net primary production and are highly abundant. Their geog raphical distribution is shaped by environmental parameters such as temper ature\, nutrient availability\, light intensity but also by presence of mo rtality agents such as grazers and viruses. This work looks into how seaso nal changes in the environmental conditions affects viral abundances and i nfection patterns of their cyanobacterial host in two different oceanic re gions. Analysis of two years of monthly sampling from in the Sargasso Sea\ , North Atlantic Ocean\, a nutrient poor open ocean system\, revealed stro ng re-occurring seasonality for both cyanobacteria and their viruses\, wit h higher abundance and infection in the fall. In sub-Antarctic waters in t he South Pacific Ocean\, a high nutrient low chlorophyll region\, I observ ed overall similar abundance of cyanobacteria and their viruses but with d ifferent taxon-specific composition and higher surface infection. Gaining insight into the drivers of infection dynamics among primary producers wil l enhance our understanding and predictability of the fate of photosynthet ically fixed atmospheric CO2 and ocean biogeochemistry\, particularly as o ur oceans continue to warm.\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https:https://technion.zoo m.us/j/93961845291 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1233@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240708T010000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240708T020000 DTSTAMP:20240724T064835Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-gal-ma rkel-cellular-events-in-resistance-to-immunotherapy/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Prof. Gal Markel-Cellular events in resistance to immunotherapy [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/95890487524 Prof. Gal Markel\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Dvi r Aran\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Gal Markel\, the Director of Davidoff Cancer Center\, Co-founder &\; Chairman of Samueli Integrative Cancer Pioneering Institute &\; Deputy Director General\, Rabin Medical Center and Professor of Clinical Microb iology and Immunology at Tel-Aviv University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time : Biology auditorium\, Monday 8/7 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Cellular events in resistance to immunotherapy\n\n \;\n\nMerkel's website: http s://gal.markel.md/en/\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\ nDvir LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 95890487524 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1230@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240702T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240702T140000 DTSTAMP:20240619T075457Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-ariel- chazan/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Ariel Chazan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/92872187327?pwd=DJMB4HKa34c56RjBhCev6KB1fHL87D.1 Ariel Ch azan\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Oded Beja \n Mixing up the colors of th e seas:\nPhototrophy by antenna-containing rhodopsins in aquatic environme nts\n\nRhodopsin-based phototrophy is one of the two known ways by which m icroorganisms harvest sunlight energy. More than 50% of bacteria in the oc ean's surface contain a rhodopsin gene. Rhodopsins are defined as a two-co mponent system (protein + retinal) that relies on the retinal to capture s unlight energy. In two exotic and rare bacteria\, rhodopsins were demonstr ated to bind an additional antenna composed of a carotenoid molecule that captures additional light and enhances the activity of the complex. Such r hodopsins have been known for almost 20 years\, yet the isolated cases of a rhodopsin-carotenoid complex remained a curious phenomenon of marginal e cological significance.\n\nIn this project\, we designed a novel workflow that uses environmental samples to pull out from a native pool of caroteno ids the ones that might serve as antennas for rhodopsin. Surprisingly\, us ing this methodology\, we discovered that the ability of rhodopsins to bin d carotenoid antennas appears to be widespread in nature. We demonstrate t hat these antennas can significantly enhance rhodopsin activity\; moreover \, we predict that over a third of the rhodopsins found in aquatic microbe s can potentially utilize a carotenoid antenna to capture additional light energy. These antennas were neglected for almost 20 years\; we now unders tand that they may have a substantial impact on rhodopsin-mediated phototr ophy in the world’s lakes\, seas and oceans. LOCATION: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/92872187327?pwd=DJMB4HKa34c56RjBhCev6KB1fHL87D.1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1223@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240626T123000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240626T140000 DTSTAMP:20240530T122156Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/biond-biologics-discovering -and-translating-innovative-science-into-breaking-biologics-to-treat-cance r/ SUMMARY:Biond Biologics - Discovering and Translating innovative science in to breaking Biologics to treat cancer [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology Auditorium Tehila Ben Moshe\n Affiliation: P h.D I Co-Founder\, Chairperson $ CEO\n Host:\n Biond Biologics – From Di scovery and Application of Innovative Science to Breakthrough Biological D rugs for Cancer Treatment\nSpeaker: Dr. Tehila Ben Moshe\, CEO\, Co-Founde r\, and Chairperson of the company\n\nIn this lecture\, Dr. Ben Moshe will present the unique technology developed by the company and its potential applications in medicine.\n\nLecture Date: Wednesday\, June 26th at 12:30 PM - Biology Auditorium\n\nSchedule:\n\n 12:30-1:30 PM: Seminar\, Biology Auditorium\n 1:30-2:00 PM: Open meeting with the speaker on the topic of Bridge to Industry\, light refreshments - Auditorium Lobby\n\nJoin us for a fascinating journey of discovery\, collaboration\, and innovation! LOCATION:Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1220@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240625T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240625T140000 DTSTAMP:20240501T193636Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-rina-z uchman/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Rina Zuchman [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/96303584862 Rina Zuchman\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Ben jamin A. Horwitz\n Novel fungal MAP kinase signalling in response to a hos t plant small-molecule signal in the Cochliobolus-maize interaction\n\nOur study aims to investigate the relationship between fungi and their plant hosts during infection\, focusing on the maize pathogen C. heterostrophus \, which serves as a model for necrotrophic plant pathogens. Analysis of i nfected leaves at various stages of disease development\, using RNA-seq an d fluorescence microscopy\, uncovered a correlation between fungal hyphal development\, necrotrophic gene expression\, and plant defense mechanisms. Notably\, the host plant upregulates defense-related genes early in infec tion\, particularly those involved in phenolic acid biosynthesis. When ger minating spores are exposed to ferulic acid (FA)\, a phenolic compound abu ndant in the host plant\, the stress-activated MAP kinase Hog1 is\, surpri singly\, dephosphorylated and sequestered in cytoplasmic foci rather than phosphorylated and accumulated in the nucleus\, as expected in stress resp onses. This unique signalling pathway may play a role in attenuating cell death induced by plant defense compounds like FA. Our findings provide ins ights into the dynamics of pathogen cell death\, survival\, and proliferat ion within lesions\, while also shedding light on stress responses mediate d by MAP kinases. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /96303584862 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1229@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240624T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240624T140000 DTSTAMP:20240618T130808Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-mor-nitz andecoding-multicellular-organization-in-space-and-time-from-single-cell-d ata/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Dr. Mor Nitzan:"Decoding multicellular organizati on in space and time from single-cell data" [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/95890487524 Dr. Mor Nitzan\n Affiliation: The Hebrew Univ ersity\, Jerusalem.\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n  \;\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Dr. Mor Nitzan from the School of Computer Sc ience and Engineering\, The Hebrew University\, Jerusalem.\n\n \;\n\nP lace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 24/6 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nT itle: Decoding multicellular organization in space and time from single-c ell data\n\n \;\n\nNitzan lab website: https://www.nitzanlab.com/\n\n  \;\n\nRecent publications from the Nitzan lab:\nKarin et al. Nature B iotechnology (2023). https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-023-01663-5\n Mages et al. Nature Biotechnology (2023). https://www.nature.com/articles /s41587-023-01657-3\n\nPiran et al. Nature Biotechnology (2024). https:// www.nature.com/articles/s41587-023-02079-x\n\n \;\n\nLooking forward t o seeing you all\,\n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom .us/j/95890487524\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact  Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/95890487524 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1225@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240619T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240619T140000 DTSTAMP:20240602T171057Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-tal-re fael/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Tal Refael [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/94259170040 Tal Refael \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Philip pa Melamed \n Novel enhancers in transcriptional regulation of the gonadot ropin genes\n\nThe pituitary gland luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle s timulating hormone (FSH) control gonadal development and function\, their levels changing dramatically at puberty\, during the estrous/menstrual cyc le and at menopause\, in response to complex hormonal signals. We hypothes ized that distal DNA elements regulate Lhb and Fshb expression to mediate some of these effects. We identified a bi-directional enhancer and lncRNA which play distinct and sex-specific roles in Lhb expression\, and found t hat both elements are regulated by non-canonical DNA structures. Far upstr eam of Fshb\, we detected a gonadotrope-specific “super-enhancer” whos e activity affects Fshb mRNA levels. Protein binding and transcription of this region increased in response to activin\, and the transcription incre ased in a mouse model of menopause which is characterized by high levels o f activin activity. This indicates a role for the region in mediating the elevation of FSH at menopause\, which underlies the onset of several age-r elated diseases. Our findings reveal novel mechanisms involved in control of the reproductive axis\, and shed new light on transcriptional regulatio n via various distal non-coding genomic elements. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /94259170040 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1227@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240618T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240618T140000 DTSTAMP:20240604T082044Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-leor-w einberger-discovery-of-cellular-dither-pathways/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Prof. Leor Weinberger-“Discovery of cellular 'd ither' pathways” [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Prof. Leor Weinberger\ n Affiliation: University of California\, San Francisco \n Host:Prof. Arav a Yoav\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1228@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240617T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240617T140000 DTSTAMP:20240616T044949Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-oren-kol odny-the-role-of-the-host-associated-microbiome-in-hosts-ecology-and-evolu tion/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Dr. Oren Kolodny-"The role of the host-associated microbiome in hosts' ecology and evolution" [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Dr. Oren Kolodny\n Affiliation: H ebrew University of Jerusalem.\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n The faculty seminar will be given by Dr. Oren Kolodny from the Department of Ecology\, Evo lution\, and Behavior\, Hebrew University of Jerusalem.\n\n \;\n\nPl ace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 17/6 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTi tle: The role of the host-associated microbiome in hosts' ecology and evo lution\n\n \;\n\nKolodny lab website: https://sites.google.com/view/o ren-kolodny-homepage LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1226@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240610T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240610T140000 DTSTAMP:20240603T151844Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-michae l-blank/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Prof. Michael Blank [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/95890487524 Prof. Michael Blank\n Affiliation: Faculty of Medicine\, Bar-Ilan University.\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Dear all\,\n\n  \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Michael Blank from the F aculty of Medicine\, Bar-Ilan University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time:  Biology auditorium\, Monday 10/6 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: SMURF2-me diated ubiquitin signaling in epigenetic regulation\, genome integrity mai ntenance\, and cancer\n\n \;\n\nBlank lab website: https://medicine.b iu.ac.il/en/Blank\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nDvir\n\n \ ;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/95890487524\n\nFor inquiries r egarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@techni on.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /95890487524 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1224@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240603T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240603T140000 DTSTAMP:20240602T050609Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-noam-s homron/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Prof. Noam Shomron [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Prof. Noam Shomron \n Affiliation: Department of Ce ll and Developmental Biology\, Tel-Aviv University.\n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Noam Sh omron from the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology\, Tel-Aviv University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 3/6 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Seeking microRNA regulators of diseases\n \n \;\n\nShomron lab website: https://nshomron.github.io/\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/95890487524\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1222@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240527T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240527T140000 DTSTAMP:20240520T123708Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-sagi-s nir-harnessing-genome-dynamics-for-phylogenetic-reconstruction/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Prof. Sagi Snir-Harnessing Genome Dynamics for Ph ylogenetic Reconstruction [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Sagi Snir\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nExcited to open up the seco nd semester Faculty of Biology Seminar Series. The opening seminar will be given by Prof. Sagi Snir from the Department of Evolutionary and Envir onmental Biology and The Institute of Evolution\, University of Haifa and  President of the Israel Society for Bioinformatics and Computational Bio logy.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 27/5 at 1 3:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Harnessing Genome Dynamics for Phylogenetic Re construction\n\n \;\n\nSnir lab website: https://sagi-snir.wixsite.co m/snir-lab\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nHa rnessing Genome Dynamics for Phylogenetic Reconstruction\n\nThe dramatic d ecrease in time and cost for generating genetic sequence data has opened u p vast opportunities in molecular systematics\, one of which is the abilit y to decipher the evolutionary history of strains of a species. Under this fine systematic resolution\, the standard markers are often too crude to provide a reliable phylogenetic signal. Nevertheless\, among prokaryotes\, genome dynamics (GD) in the form of horizontal gene transfer (HGT)\, the transfer of genetic material between organisms not through lineal descent\ , seem to provide far richer information by affecting both gene order and gene content.\n\nIn modern systematics\, a common practice is to assume a stochastic model describing the behavior of the system.  Such modelling i s valuable\, as it allows advanced machine learning approaches to be appli ed to the data.\n\nHere we provide a first statistical\, two-level modelin g and analysis\, for GD under a very simple operation – the Jump operati on. Using this modeling we can infer several essential  characteristics f or genomes evolving along a tree and analytically infer HGT rate and time. \n\nWe applied this model to the new version of the orthology DB EggNOG co ntaining over 4.5K taxa. To the best of our knowledge\, this is the larges t gene-order-based tree constructed and it overcomes shortcomings found in previous approaches. Constructing a GD-based tree allows to confirm and c ontrast findings based on other phylogenetic approaches\, as we show.\n\nT he talk is self-contained and assumes no mathematical background. \n\n&nb sp\;\n\nRelated Papers: \n\n Katriel\, G.\, Mahanaymi\, U.\, Brezner\, S .\, Kezel\, N.\, Koutschan\, C.\, Zeilberger\, D.\, ... &\; Snir\, S. G ene Transfer-based Phylogenetics: Analytical Expressions and Additivity vi a Birth-Death Theory. Systematic biology\, syad060.\n Sevillya\, G.\, D. Doerr\, Y. Lerner\, J. Stoye\, M. Steel\, and S. Snir. 2019. Horizontal G ene Transfer Phylogenetics: A Random Walk Approach. Molecular Biology and Evolution (MBE)37:1470–1479.\n  Shifman\, A.\, N. Ninyo\, U. Gophna\, and S. Snir. 2013. Phylo si: a new genome-wide approach for prokaryotic ph ylogeny. Nucleic acids research (NAR)42:2391–2404.\n\n \;\n\nShort B io: Sagi Snir graduated in Computer Science from the Technion Israel\, foc using on analytical\, algebraic\, maximum likelihood solutions to phylogen etics. After a postdoc in the Math and the Computer Science depts at UC Be rkeley\, he returned to the dept of Evolutionary &\; Environmental biol ogy  at the University of Haifa in Israel\, where he has established the Bioinformatics program for grad students. He is now a professor of computa tional evolution at the University of Haifa and the President of the Israe li Society for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.\n\nHis research c ombines algorithmic approaches to problems from evolution with focus on ph ylogenetic trees and networks. He has developed the Quartet MaxCut algorit hm to combine conflicting signals between evolutionary trees and other fun damental results on maximum likelihood of trees and networks. His papers h ave been published in both pure theoretical computer science venues and pu re evolution venues.\n\nAfter his army service he traveled for two years o n a motorcycle from the tip of South America (Tierra del Fuego) to Alaska. LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1219@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240508T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240508T140000 DTSTAMP:20240501T191317Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-itai-b loch/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Itai Bloch [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/97680951856#success Itai Bloch\n Affiliation: \n Host:Asso ciate Prof. Meytal Landau \n Unraveling the Complexities of Fibril-Formin g Antimicrobial Peptides: A Computational Exploration\n\nMy research aims to explore and evaluate peptides capable of forming cross-α fibrillar str uctures. It introduces a grid-based energy estimation method that utilizes existing cross-structures as templates. A library of antimicrobial peptid es\, selected for high helical propensity and significant orthogonal hydro phobic moments\, was screened. Interaction energies between peptides and t he generated grids resulted in a dataset containing 23\,304 entries\, whic h is then refined through rigorous energy-based filters. Peptides are rank ed by their energy profiles\, and the top ranked candidates were selected for further experimental analysis. This study presents a novel systematic method for identifying and characterizing cross-α fibril-forming peptides \, potentially advancing our understanding of these intriguing molecules f or useful applications. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /97680951856#success END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1221@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240507T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240507T140000 DTSTAMP:20240502T094307Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-akmara l-rakhymzhanova/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Akmaral Rakhymzhanova [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/99062456099 Akmaral Rakhymzhanova\n Affiliation: \n Host:D r. Noga Ron-Harel \n Alanine – a metabolic liability ‘by choice’\n\n Abstract:\n\nT lymphocytes\, the cellular arm of the adaptive immune syste m\, maintain host homeostasis and orchestrate an immune response to pathog ens and internal threats like tumors and injuries. Upon encountering their cognate antigen\, T cells enter a phase of rapid cell growth expansion. T his transition from quiescence to active growth is driven by the reprogram ming of cellular metabolism\, transitioning from low-rate catabolism to ma ssive biosynthesis. Success in this transformation relies on the microenvi ronment providing essential fuels such as glucose and amino acids. Our pre vious work highlighted T cell dependence of extracellular alanine pools fo r activation\, showing that T cells do not express GPT (Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase)\, an alanine synthesizing enzyme.  As a result\, alanine d eprivation inhibited protein synthesis and arrested T cell activation. An intriguing question arose: Why do T cells ‘choose’ this metabolic liab ility?\n\nWe hypothesized that T cells purposefully suppress GPT expressio n to enable pyruvate flux into other metabolic pathways. In this study\, w e tested this hypothesis by overexpressing GPT in primary T cells and exam ining its effect on T cell metabolism and function. GPT overexpression res cued T cell growth\, activation\, and proliferation under conditions of al anine deprivation\, albeit with a concomitant decrease in cell viability. Untargeted metabolomics highlighted significant alterations in metabolism driven by GPT overexpression\, with lower carbon flux into the mitochondri a\, reduced cellular pools of aspartate and nucleotides\, and accumulation of 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG).  Intriguingly\, these robust changes in me tabolism did not affect proliferation but compromised cell viability.\n\nO ur findings shed light on T cells fuel portioning and the consequences of its interruption. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /99062456099 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1216@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240416T093000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240416T153000 DTSTAMP:20240318T112803Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/mini-symposium-for-clari-va lansi-on-developmental-cell-biology-and-neurosciences/ SUMMARY:Mini Symposium for Clari Valansi on Developmental Cell Biology and Neurosciences [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: \n Host:\n Invite d Speakers :\n\n*Ori Avinoam\n\nWeizmann Institute of Science\n\n*Nicolas Brukman\n\nTechnion\n\n*Yael Iosilevskii\n\nTechnion\n\n*Meital Oren-Suiss a\n\nWeizmann Institute of Science\n\n*Amir Sapir\n\nUniversity of Haifa-O ranim\n\n \;\n\nPlease RSVP here: https://forms.gle/65JqCTiV6Ac27p1P6 \n\n \;\n\nOrganized by: Nir Blitz I Beni Podbilewicz  LOCATION:Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1215@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240403T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240403T140000 DTSTAMP:20240331T083602Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/bridge-to-industry-1-beyond -birth-exploring-placental-potential-in-biomedical-innovation/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Guy Levin [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/2085309787 Guy Levin\n Affiliation: CSO\, Pluri \n Host:Pr ofessor Emeritus Schuster Gadi\, Associate Prof. Yehezkeli Omer\n Bridge t o Industry\nA lecture series fostering collaboration between academia and industry. The Faculty of Biology is proud to present a series of meetings focused on groundbreaking research and innovation in Israel's life science s industry.\n\nJoin us as leading researchers and entrepreneurs discuss ch allenges and solutions\, fostering a dynamic community for:\n\n Enhanced Collaboration between academia and industry\n Building a Thriving Innovat ion Ecosystem with researchers\, entrepreneurs\, and students\n Advancing Applied Knowledge and breakthrough technologies in biotechnology\n\n## Le cture 1: Pluri - Beyond Birth: Exploring Placental Potential in Biomedical Innovation\n\nSpeaker: Dr. Arthur Machlenkin\, CSO of Pluri\n\nAbstract:\ n\nPluri\, an Israeli clinical-stage company\, is pioneering the developme nt of innovative cell products derived from the placenta. This study inves tigates the potential of Placenta eXpanded (PLX) mesenchymal-like stromal cells for regenerative medicine applications. Characterized by their uniqu e secretome\, PLX cells possess distinct immunomodulatory and regenerative capabilities\, making them promising candidates for therapeutic intervent ions. Specifically\, this research delves into the therapeutic potential o f PLX cells in treating acute radiation syndrome (ARS)\, capitalizing on t heir allogeneic nature and support for hematopoietic recovery. Additionall y\, Pluri explores the placenta as a source of non-conventional immune cel ls\, which can be genetically modified to confer specificity against cance r antigens\, thereby enhancing the efficacy of allogeneic immunotherapy of cancer. By concurrently investigating these avenues\, this study aims to unlock the full therapeutic potential of placenta-derived cells\, presenti ng innovative strategies for both regenerative medicine and cancer treatme nt.\n\nDon't miss this opportunity to connect and inspire!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nPlease secure your spot for the lecture via the link: https://di d.li/vEwrl\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /2085309787 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1218@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240403T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240403T140000 DTSTAMP:20240321T102102Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-guy-le vin/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Guy Levin [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/97557530438 Guy Levin\n Affiliation: \n Host:Professor Eme ritus Schuster Gadi\, Associate Prof. Yehezkeli Omer\n The unique mechanis ms that enable Chlorella ohadii to thrive in light intensities that are fa tal to most photosynthetic organisms\nAlthough light is required for photo synthesis\, too much light is harmful and may cause damage to the photosyn thetic proteins in a process known as photoinhibition. During photoinhibit ion\, photosynthesis is inhibited in plants\, algae\, and cyanobacteria\, and may lead to retarded growth and death. Improving photoinhibition resis tance to increase crop production is a long-standing goal for plant scient ists worldwide. Here we reveal the unique mechanisms of photoinhibition re sistance in the desert green algae Chlorella ohadii\, one of the most high -light tolerant organisms on the planet. We show that C. ohadii lacks some of the most important photoinhibition resistance mechanisms in other mode l organisms\, such as non-photochemical quenching (NPQ)\, the PsbS and Lhc SR proteins\, and state transitions. Instead\, C. ohadii protects photosyn thesis by eliminating the photosynthetic antenna and minimizing excess ene rgy uptake\, while maximizing cyclic electron flow around photosystem I an d antioxidant activity via carotenoids and enzymatic detoxification\, thus protecting the photosynthetic proteins. Our work describes a new efficien t mechanism for photoinhibition resistance under extreme light intensities and provides potential targets for improving photoinhibition resistance i n crop plants.\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /97557530438 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1217@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240401T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240401T140000 DTSTAMP:20240319T071703Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-oded-r echavi-molecular-memories/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Oded Rechavi-Molecular Memories [No Categor ies] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/91883783153 Prof. Oded Rechavi \n Affiliation: ife Science s\, Tel-Aviv University.\n Host:Prof. Dedi Meiri \n Dear all\,\n\nOur next seminar will be given by Prof. Oded Rechavi from the Department of Neu robiology\, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences\, Tel-Aviv Univers ity.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 1/4 at 13: 00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Molecular Memories\n\n \;\n\nRechavi lab web site: https://www.odedrechavilab.com/\n\nLooking forward to seeing you al l\,\n\nDvir\n\nList of seminars: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1 shMP8br8GdMjl6UUTrABd7YhmPLDglDSg2UHYY443o0/edit?usp=sharing\n\nZoom link:  https://technion.zoom.us/j/91883783153\n\nFor inquiries regarding the co urse\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/91883783153 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1214@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240320T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240320T140000 DTSTAMP:20240313T095526Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-omer-n adel-beja-lab/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Omer Nadel-Beja Lab [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91036219148 Omer Nadel\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Oded Beja \n Title: Degradation of photosynthetic antennae by viral auxiliary m etabolic proteins\n\n \;\n\nAbstract: Cyabophage auxiliary metabolic g enes have a direct and substantial effect on oceanic photosynthesis and pr imary productivity Cyanophages often carry auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs ) acquired from their cyanobacterial hosts\, believed to redirect host cel l metabolism for the phage’s benefit. Building on our previous work\, wh ich suggested that some uncultured marine cyanophages encode active NblA p roteins responsible for phycobilisome (PBS) degradation in cyanobacteria\, we knocked out the nblA gene in a marine cyanophage\, and also constructe d a marine cyanobacterial strain overexpressing the viral nblA gene\, to i nvestigate the role of NblA in viral fitness. Our study revealed that duri ng infection\, cyanophages utilize NblA for targeted PBS degradation. When comparing the infection courses of the wildtype (WT) cyanophage and the n blA deletion mutant in the host cells\, we observed faster propagation in the WT\, suggesting that the nblA gene significantly enhances infection pr ogression. Infections by the WT cyanophage led to more than 50% reduction in cyanobacterial photosynthesis\, compared to those infected by the nblA deletion mutant. Based on metagenomic data\, we conclude that cyanophages carrying such nblA genes are widespread and compose between 35% (in surfac e waters) to 65% (in Deep Chlorophyll Maximum depths) of oceanic T7-like c yanophages. Our data suggest that cyanophage-encoded AMGs such as nblA hav e a direct and substantial effect on oceanic photosynthesis and primary pr oductivity. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91036219148 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1209@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240318T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240318T140000 DTSTAMP:20240214T074335Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-paper-of-th e-month-winners-graduate-student-lectures/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- "Paper Of The Month" winners- Graduate Students le ctures [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Ariel Chazan\,Anwar Bdarneh\,Pel eg Ragonis Bachar\,Bella Ben-Oz\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. M eiri David\n The Faculty of Biology will host our Graduate Students who wo n the prize for the outstanding "Paper Of The Month" in recent months at t he Faculty of Biology:\n\n Ariel Chazan- Beja Lab- Ariel won the prestig ious award for the "outstanding paper of the year- for 2023" in the Facult y of Biology for his paper: "Phototrophy by antenna-containing rhodopsin p umps in aquatic environments" Nature.\n Anwar Bdarneh-Glickman Lab- "Alt ered ubiquitin signaling induces Alzheimer’s disease-like hallmarks in a three-dimensional human neural cell culture model"\, Nature Communication s.\n Peleg Ragonis Bachar-Landau Lab: "What can AlphaFold do for antimic robial amyloids?" Proteins.\n Bella Ben-Oz-Ayoub Lab-"A dual role of RBM 42 in modulating splicing and translation of CDKN1A/p21\nduring DNA damage response". Nature Communications.\n LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1205@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240313T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240313T140000 DTSTAMP:20240130T094318Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-hodaya -baruchi-farber/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Hodaya Baruchi Farber [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/7465533221 Hodaya Baruchi Farber\n Affiliation: \n Host:Pr of. Shlomi Tomer\n Identifying metabolic alterations and vulnerabilities i n therapy-induced senescent cancer cells\n\nCellular senescence\, cell cyc le arrest due to stress conditions\, is a defense mechanism against accumu lation of mutations and tumorigenesis. Therapy-induced senescence (TIS) is caused by treating cancer cells with sub-cytotoxic doses of chemotherapy. Senescence was thought of as irreversible\, hence\, serving as a valid en d-point for cancer therapy\, inhibiting cancer progression. New evidence r eveals ways for escaping senescence\, resulting in senescent cancer cells which are resistant to classical chemotherapy\, which can in time lead to cancer relapse. Moreover\, the senescence process is accompanied by senesc ence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP)\, involving the secretion of in flammatory cytokines that enhances inflammation in the tumor microenvironm ent and cancer progression. Our research aims to identify cellular metabol ic alterations and vulnerabilities associated with TIS. To address this ch allenge\, we used LC-MS based metabolomics and isotope tracing to characte rize metabolic alterations in cancer cell lines treated with the chemother apeutic drug doxorubicin to induce TIS. Isotope tracing experiments with 1 3C glucose and glutamine revealed decreased pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) a ctivity in senescent cells (versus non-proliferating quiescent cells) and an overall decrease in mitochondrial respiration. We further observe an in crease in the relative contribution of glucose versus glutamine-derived TC A cycle anaplerosis via pyruvate carboxylase in TIS. Additionally\, our li pidomics results show major changes in the intracellular concentration of lipids synthesized from recycled FAs. Our results call for further researc h on characterizing metabolic alterations associated with TIS and finding of induced essentiality of metabolic enzymes that could be targeted for th erapeutic purposes. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /7465533221 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1213@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240311T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240311T140000 DTSTAMP:20240306T074439Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-itay-t irosh-glioma-cellular-heterogeneity-in-time-and-space/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Itay Tirosh-Glioma cellular heterogeneity i n time and space [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91883783153 Prof. Itay Tirosh\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Dedi Meiri \n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nThis week the seminar will be given by Prof. Itay Tirosh from the Department of Molecular Cell Biology a t he Weizmann Institute of Science.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 11/3 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Glioma cellular h eterogeneity in time and space\n\n \;\n\nTirosh lab website: https:// www.weizmann.ac.il/mcb/tirosh/home\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all\,\ n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91883783153\n \nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri & lt\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91883783153 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1211@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240306T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240306T133000 DTSTAMP:20240222T074750Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-mallik -monalisha/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Monalisha Mallik [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/94790301143 Mallik Monalisha\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Arava Yoav\n Role of Amino-acyl tRNA synthetases in the regulation of tra nslation of mRNAs encoding for enzymes in amino acid biosynthesis pathways \nAmino-acyl tRNA synthetases are enzymes that catalyse the aminoacylation reaction\, where an amino acid is covalently linked to its cognate tRNA. Besides this canonical function of tRNA aminoacylation\, aaRSs have a role in several metabolic and signalling pathways. A role in post-transcriptio nal regulation is known through binding to mRNA. Recent RIP-seq results fr om our lab revealed mRNA repertoire bound by many yeast aaRS. Interestingl y many mRNAs encoding proteins involved in amino acid biosynthesis and rib osome biogenesis were detected. This implies that aaRS might induce regula tion on these biological functions via the mRNA binding. The role of aaRS in amino acid biosynthesis and the mechanism of this regulation is explore d in this project. To achieve this\, we perform amino acid starvation expe riments to study how starvation causes alteration in the expression of the mRNAs and their binding to aaRS. Further\, we study whether this alterati on is due to a translation regulatory impact of the bound aaRS. Most impor tantly\, as the mRNAs bound by aaRS show\nenrichment of tRNA anticodon-lik e structures\, we are also checking the impact of tRNA overexpression on t he binding of mRNAs. This work uncovers new mechanisms of translation cont rol by aaRSs\, and the role of tRNA-like sequences in this process.\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /94790301143 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1212@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240304T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240304T140000 DTSTAMP:20240229T072300Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-moshe- elkabets/ SUMMARY:Faculty seminar - Prof. Moshe Elkabets [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91883783153 Prof. Moshe Elkabets\n Affiliation: \n Host:Pro f. Dedi Meiri \n  \;\n\n \;\n\nThis week the seminar will be given by Prof. Moshe Elkabets from the Department of Microbiology\, Immunolo gy\, and Genetics at Ben-Gurion University.\n\n \;\n\nPlace and time:  Biology auditorium\, Monday 4/3 at 13:00.\n\n \;\n\nTitle: Novel th erapeutic and diagnostic tools to fight cancer\n\n \;\n\nElkabets lab website: https://www.elkabetslab.com/\n\nLooking forward to seeing you al l\,\n\nDvir\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/918837831 53\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meir i <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91883783153 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1204@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240228T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240228T140000 DTSTAMP:20240124T141303Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-yael-i osilevskii/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Yael Iosilevskii [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/92242652675 Yael Iosilevskii\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n The highly arborized PVD neuron has male-specific function and structure in C. elegans\nThe link between sensory neuron mor phology and function remains difficult to ascertain\, particularly in comp lex organisms. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans provides a simpler mode l to investigate the morphogenesis and function of dendritic arbors. I foc us on the bilateral neuron pair PVD\, which has been extensively studied i n hermaphrodites\, but not in males. My results reveal PVD develops a male -specific dendritic structure into the copulatory organ and plays a new ro le during the complex mating behavior of the male. The morphological sexua l dimorphism seems to stem from a male-specific expression pattern of a se x-shared guidance pathway controlled by the Menorin complex. In particular \, the epidermally expressed SAX-7/L1 Cell Adhesion Molecule (L1CAM) guide s PVD branches into the male copulatory organ during adulthood\, while the behavioral aspect likely involves several sensory circuits and depends on animal age. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /92242652675 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1210@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240226T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240226T140000 DTSTAMP:20240221T141926Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-yaara-or en/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar - Dr. Yaara Oren [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/91883783153 Dr. Yaara Oren \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Dedi Meiri \n Dear all\,\n\n \;\n\nThis week the seminar will be given by Dr. Yaara Oren from the School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University.\ n\n \;\n\nPlace and time: Biology auditorium\, Monday 26/2 at 13:00.\ n\n \;\n\nTitle: The day after the drug: Investigating drug-induced  cellular memory\n\n \;\n\nOren lab website: https://www.yaaraoren.s ites.tau.ac.il/\n\n \;\n\nZoom link: https://technion.zoom.us/j/91883 783153\n\nFor inquiries regarding the course\, please contact Prof. Dedi Meiri <\;dmeiri@technion.ac.il>\;. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/91883783153 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1207@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240214T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240214T140000 DTSTAMP:20240130T111758Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-maram- halabi/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Maram Halabi [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/94568387345 Maram Halabi\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Arav a Yoav\n Impact of pseudouridylation on mitochondrial tRNA recognition by cognate synthetase\n\n\n\nMitochondrial tRNAs (mt-tRNAs) undergo an extens ive post-transcriptional modification. One such common modification is pse udouridylation\, the conversion of uridine to a 5’-ribosyl isomer of uri dine. Although it is the most abundant modified nucleoside to be known in RNA\, in most cases the contribution of this modification to the translati on process is not clear. Previous research conducted\, by Levi O and Arava YS\, in our lab has shown that pseudouridine in cytosolic tRNA affects th e regulation of translation. Specifically\, the deletion of Pus6 resulted in a reduction of MetRS binding to tRNAMet. Yet no studies have been condu cted to test this on mt-tRNAs. Here we analyzed this impact by removal of specific pseudouridine enzymes that worked on several mt-tRNAs (tRNAArg\, tRNALys\, tRNASer). We generated yeast strains deleted of these enzymes: P us2\, Pus4\, Pus6\, or Pus9. We tested the in vivo impact on the binding o f each tRNA to its cognate aminoacyl tRNA synthetase (aaRS). Our results s how that Pus4 plays a role in the SerRS binding tRNASer and tRNALys\, Pus6 deletion impacts the LysRS binding to tRNASer\, and Pus4 deletion impacts the binding of ArgRS to non-cognate tRNAs. This study presents the first in vivo characterization of pseudouridylation impact on mt-tRNA binding to cognate mt-aaRS\, shedding new light on the role of this modification in mitochondrial translation regulation. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /94568387345 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1206@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240214T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240214T133000 DTSTAMP:20240130T111511Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-inna-p igalchucke/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Inna Pigalchucke [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/94568387345 Inna Pigalchuck\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. N abieh Ayoub\n  \;\nCharacterizing a role of RBM15B in  DNA Repair\n&n bsp\;\n\nDNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are considered among the most cyt otoxic DNA lesions. Cells utilize various DSB repair pathways\, including homologous recombination (HR)\, which is executed at S/G2 phases of the ce ll cycle. Interestingly\, RNA modifications and RNA-binding proteins have essential roles in HR repair. The RNA-Binding Motif 15B (RBM15B) protein i s implicated in m6A positioning on RNA\, but its role in DNA damage remain s elusive. Here\, we show that RBM15B is rapidly recruited to DSB sites. M oreover\, we show that RBM15B negatively regulates R-loop and global N6-me thyladenosine (m6A) levels on RNA\, consequently promoting HR repair of DS Bs. Accordingly\, RBM15B-deficient cells show an increase in the levels of the replication stress markers pCHK1(S345) and pRPA32(S33)\, and are hype rsensitive to various genotoxic agents. Collectively\, our data establish RBM15B as a novel regulator of HR repair of DSBs\, presumably by regulatin g the cellular levels of m6A and R-loops LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /94568387345 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1203@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240110T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240110T140000 DTSTAMP:20240102T072528Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-heba-o mbashe/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Heba Ombashe [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/94192535896 Heba Ombashe\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Noga Ron-Harel \n Heme: A Novel Driver of Immune Aging\n\nAge-related morbidity \, including the increased rate of infectious diseases\, cancer\, and auto immune disorders\, is driven by the decline in immune potency. The aged im mune system is characterized by systemic inflammation and compromised adap tive immunity. T lymphocytes\, the cellular arm of the adaptive immune res ponse\, are one of the most negatively affected populations. Recently\, we made a surprising observation that the functionality of aged T cells depe nds on the organ they reside in\; T cells purified from an aged spleen fai l to proliferate\, whereas T cells isolated from the lymph nodes of the sa me donor respond like young cells. Whole-cell proteomics identified heme a s a potential driver of this phenotype\, as we quantified a significant up regulation of enzymes involved in heme catabolism only in T cells derived from the aged spleen. Why are T cells exposed to heme in the aged spleen? We found age-driven changes in spleen morphology\, leading to loss of boun daries between the lymphocyte compartment (white pulp) and the site of red blood cell recycling (red pulp). Strikingly\, exposing young T cells to h eme ex vivo or to the aged spleen microenvironment in vivo was sufficient to drive multiple\, aging-like phenotypes. Previous studies have shown tha t introducing aged/dysfunctional T cells into a young host promotes aging- like phenotypes in multiple organs. Our studies highlight the intricate re lationship between lymphocytes and their immediate microenvironment\, emph asizing how age-driven changes in tissue function impact T cell immunity a nd identify heme as a novel driver of immune dysfunction with aging. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/94192535896 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1202@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240110T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20240110T140000 DTSTAMP:20240102T072302Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-esti-c armel/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Esti Carmel [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/94192535896 Esti Carmel\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sharon Nadav \n Characterization of a Novel Macrophage Population with a Protecti ve Potential Against Immune Attack in T1D\n\nType 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an a utoimmune disease that is characterized by insulin deficiency caused by sp ecific destruction of pancreatic β­-cells. The defects in the immune sys tem that initiate the attack upon β­-cells are unknown\, and scarcity of human samples hampers analysis of the pre-diabetic pancreas. The Non-Obes e Diabetic (NOD) mouse develops spontaneous autoimmune diabetes with genet ic and environmental features similar to the human disease\, and is theref ore a powerful tool to study the origins of T1D. An intriguing feature of the immune attack in both mouse and humans may hold the potential to revea l the origins of T1D: The attack is asynchronous\, so that infiltrated Isl ets and intact islets are often seen in close proximity.\nIn order to char acterize the cellular composition of each configuration\, we performed sin gle-cell RNA sequencing of attacked and non-attacked islets from NOD mice\ , and characterized the cell population in each. While attacked islets har bor a plethora of immune cells\, we identified a distinct population of ma crophages with anti-inflammatory properties in the non-attacked islets. Th rough combined RNA-FISH and immunofluorescence\, we found that these cells are present in the beginning of the immune attack\, disappear when the im mune attack is at its’ peak and reappear at the end of it. In addition\, we have also identified a similar population in the human pancreas with d ifferent expression patterns between healthy\, T1D and T2D patients. These observations suggest that these macrophages are a dynamic population of c ells that are influenced by the current status of the immune attack and ch ange accordingly.\nExploring the dynamics and properties of this interesti ng population could aid in gaining a better understanding of the complex “battlefield” of T1D. LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/94192535896 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1201@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20231227T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20231227T133000 DTSTAMP:20231221T082737Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-galia- polyak/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Galia Polyak [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/9909936173?omn=94601376175 Galia Polyak\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Yael Mandel-Gutfreund \n Combining RNA- and protein-centric ap proaches to discover new functions of non-coding RNAs during stem cell dif ferentiation\nNon-coding RNAs are at the interplay between transcription a nd post transcription regulation. Long non-coding RNAs\, in particular\, o ften exert their function by interacting with proteins. In this study\, we applied high throughput methodologies combining RNA-centric and protein-c entric approaches to identify RNA-protein interactions involved in transcr iption regulation in pluripotency.\nWe started by revealing the protein-bo und transcriptome of hESCs\, embryoid bodies\, and each germ layer. We ide ntified the lncRNAs that changed their binding without correlating changes in expression\, as well as those unique to pluripotency\, differentiated cells\, or each germ layer specifically.\nWe chose the epigenetic factor D NMT3b to further study protein-RNA interactions in hESCs. We found it inte racts with the RNAs of 283 genes related to development and transcription\ , and enriched in CpG islands. DNMT3b’s RNA targets were simultaneously significantly more methylated at the DNA level than other expressed genes\ , and more expressed. We also found that DNMT3b binds the same motifs at t he RNA and DNA level. These DNMT3b/RNA interactions could modulate DNMT3b ’s DNA binding and methylation to regulate the expression of key genes i n development.\n LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /9909936173?omn=94601376175 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1200@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20231213T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20231213T140000 DTSTAMP:20231206T092901Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-shir-y aish/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-shir yaish [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: : hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/99469132988 shir yaish\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Beja Oded\n  \;\n\nHeliorhodopsins function in Gram-positive bacteria\n\nR hodopsins are light sensing proteins that span across all kingdoms of life . They absorb light using retinal. As a response to light\, rhodopsins can function as ion pumps\, channels\, enzymes\, and photo sensory receptors. Heliorhodopsins (HeRs) are a new rhodopsin family discovered in our lab. HeRs are present in all domains of life\, they react to light\, yet their end function is currently unknown. Recently\, a HeR gene was discovered in a strain of Lactococcus lactis and in Alkalibacterium pelagium\, another culturable bacterium related to L. lactis. Interestingly\, acquisition of HeR genes happened several times within the order Lactobacillales\, such that the heliorhodopsins from A. pelagium and L. lactis appear to have i ndependent origins. We confirmed that the Lactococcus HeR (LlHeR) is trans cribed in this L. lactis\, and then over-expressed LlHeR and ApHeR in Esc herichia coli. Next\, mutant strains of L. lactis were used to perform RNA Seq analysis in an attempt to shed light on LlHeR role in L. lactis.\n\n&n bsp\; LOCATION:: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/99469132988 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1199@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20231122T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20231122T140000 DTSTAMP:20231120T101413Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-anwar- bdarneh/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Anwar Bdarneh [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: : hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tec hnion.zoom.us/j/94240537873 Anwar Bdarneh\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. M ichael Glickman \n Elucidating the mysterious ubiquitin ligase mechanism o f Ubiquitin C-terminal Hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1)\n\nUbiquitination is a post-t ranslational modification that has emerged as a key regulator of most cell ular processes\, ranging from subcellular localization to protein function \, cell signaling\, and protein degradation by the proteasome or the lysos ome.\nLike other PTMs\, ubiquitination is reversible due to the activity o f specific protases called deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). A unique DUB i s ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1)\, which is restricted to the cleavage of small adducts from the C-terminus of ubiquitin.\nUCH-L1 is abu ndantly expressed in neurons\, yet its biological function in neuronal cel ls remains a mystery. Different studies have shown that UCH-L1 plays a rol e in neurodegeneration. Moreover\, we showed that UCH-L1 over-expression d elays the accumulation of Alzheimer's hallmarks\, which suggests that UCH- L1 plays a unique role in prolonging neuronal health.\nIn addition to its extensively studied hydrolase activity as a DUB\, we characterize an addit ional enzymatic activity\, in which UCH-L1 acts as a ligase. We succeeded in identifying\, for the first time\, a new active site that is responsibl e for this distinct activity. Furthermore\, we demonstrated that the two a ctive sites work independently of each other. Additionally\, we provide an initial characterization of the enzymatic cascade in which it participate s.\nWe are currently delineating which of the two distinct enzymatic activ ities is essential for UCH-L1's role in suppressing Alzheimer's hallmarks. The investigation into the biochemical mechanisms underlying UCH-L1's dua l enzymatic activities aims to unravel the mystery of its unique function in neurons.\n LOCATION:: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us /j/94240537873 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1193@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230919T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230919T133000 DTSTAMP:20230906T070407Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-loai-n aom/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Loai Naom [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91259160283?pwd=OTg2eFExanJRSDNwNEMyd0w4UER5QT09 security co de for zoom: 035378 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Dvir Aran\n Prediction o f Response to Immune Checkpoint Blockade Treatments Using Tumour Microenvi ronment Cellular Landscape\n\n\n\nImmune checkpoint blockade (ICB) treatme nts hold great promise in the realm of cancer therapy. However\, they are not flawless\, and it remains crucial to pinpoint the characteristics that impact the effectiveness of these treatments. In this study\, we theorize that the primary factor determining response is the cellular composition in the tumour microenvironment.\nTo that end\, we utilize cellular compres sion as a prediction for ICB treatment outcomes.\nThe seminar will be give n: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:\nhttps://technion.zoom.us/j/912 59160283?pwd=OTg2eFExanJRSDNwNEMyd0w4UER5QT09 security code for zoom: 0353 78 LOCATION:Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91259160283?pwd=OTg2eFExanJRSDNwNEMyd0w4UER5QT09 security code for zoom: 035378 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1195@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230912T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230912T140000 DTSTAMP:20230824T070730Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-caroli na-khoury/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Carolina Khoury [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/92857653725 Carolina Khoury\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Bes ter Assaf\n Identification and Characterization of Functional LncRNA  Reg ulation of Mitochondrial Respiration\n\nCarolina Khoury\, Dr. Assaf C. Bes ter \n\nThe central dogma of molecular biology traditionally emphasizes RN A's role as a messenger\, bridging ‎the information repository in DNA wi th protein synthesis at the ribosome. However\, the human ‎genome encode s a vast array of non-protein-coding RNA (ncRNA) molecules with diverse fu nctions. ‎In fact\, in many species\, protein-coding genes comprise only a small fraction of the total genome.‎\n\nAmong ncRNAs\, long non-codin g RNAs (lncRNAs)--transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that are not tra nslated into proteins--represent the largest and most heterogeneous group of RNA in the human genome Recent research has begun to uncover lncRNAs' d iverse roles\, linking them to various biological processes and diseases\, including apoptosis\, metastasis\, proliferation\, and metabolism.\n\nMet abolic rewiring is pivotal in cancer\, emphasizing the need to identify ge nes that regulate both normal and malignant metabolism. While protein-codi ng genes' functions are well-studied\, the complex interactions between ln cRNAs and cellular metabolism remain largely uncharted .\n\nThis study emp loyed screening techniques to identify lncRNAs influencing mitochondrial r espiration in leukemia cells\, pinpointing four lncRNAs that significantly affect energy metabolism and cellular fitness. Through cell-based assays and molecular characterization\, a regulatory network impacting mitochondr ial function was revealed. Notably\, the research highlights the lncRNA kn own as the negative regulator of P-body association (NBDY) in controlling multiple metabolic genes.\n\nFurther investigation of NBDY's mechanisms an d potential therapeutic applications will enrich our understanding of meta bolic regulation. The findings not only contribute to our understanding of RNA biology but also may open new avenues for therapeutic interventions in metabolic diseases.\n\n \; LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /92857653725 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1194@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230912T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230912T133000 DTSTAMP:20230823T121754Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-hadas- gruber/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Hadas Gruber [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/92857653725 Hadas Gruber\n Affiliation: \n Host: Prof. Melamed Philippa\n  \n\nFoxl2 and Nr5a1 regulation in gonadotrope cells of the a nterior pituitary\n\n \;\n\nThe mammalian reproductive system is regul ated by gonadotrope cells in the anterior pituitary gland. These cells pro duce and secrete the gonadotropin hormones\, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)\, responsible for germ cell maturation. Gonadotrope differentiation in the developing pituitary is driven by seve ral transcription factors (TFs)\, among them FOXL2 and SF-1 (encoded by FO XL2 and NR5A1\, respectively). FOXL2 and SF-1 also support mature gonadotr ope function\, notably expression of FSHB which encodes the FSH β-subunit . Despite their essential role in gonadotropes\, little is known about how these factors are regulated in the pituitary. In this research\, we aimed to find what regulates FOXL2 and NR5A1 in both differentiating and mature gonadotrope cells. We hypothesized that expression of both genes is activ ated by pituitary-specific factors and regulatory elements. We discovered\ , surprisingly\, that activin A and GnRH\, which both stimulate Fshb expre ssion\, repress Foxl2 and Nr5a1 expression in murine gonadotrope cells. Bo th Foxl2 and Nr5a1 have adjacent sequences transcribed to divergent long n on-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)\, Foxl2os and Nr5a1os\, that are co-expressed in a tissue-specific manner and respond to the same stimulus as the protein c oding genes. Of these lncRNAs\, Foxl2os shows potential as a Foxl2 regulat or\, possibly through the formation of G-quadruplexes and iMotifs that we detected and appear to impact Foxl2os levels. Additionaly\, using publishe d ATAC-seq data\, we have identified a putative gonadotrope specific super -enhancer upstream of the Foxl2 promoter. Targeting dCas9-KRAB to this reg ion reduced Foxl2 mRNA levels\, indicating a functional role. This functio n is supported by the presence of annotated ChIP-seq binding of TFs that a re expressed in differentiating pre-gonadotropes prior to Foxl2. These res ults offer novel candidates for the regulation of two genes crucial for hu man fertility.\n\n \;\n\nThe seminar will be given in English.\n\n  LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9285 7653725 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1198@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230905T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230905T140000 DTSTAMP:20230903T094317Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-miryam -steinberg/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Miryam Steinberg [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/97039787933 Miryam Steinberg\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associ ate Prof. David Meiri\n CBDV modulates myeloid suppressor cells in the tum or microenvironment\n \;\n\nDuring solid tumor progression\, the tumor microenvironment (TME) evolves into a highly immunosuppressive milieu. Ke y players in the immunosuppressive environment are regulatory myeloid cell s\, including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associate d macrophages (TAMs). Therefore\, the modulation of immunosuppressive cell s in the TME to create a more active environment is a compelling strategy for preventing tumor progression. Here\, we found that Cannabidivarin (CBD V)\, a minor cannabinoid\, directly reduces the immunosuppressive properti es of MDSCs and shifted their differentiation from TAMs to M1-like macroph ages. Treating myeloid suppressor cells with CBDV led to restored CD8+ T-c ell activation and proliferation in a co-culture model. Tumor-bearing mice treated with CBDV presented reduced tumor progression\, and myeloid suppr essor cells in the TME showed a reduction in immunosuppressive markers\, i n line with enhancing CD8+ T-cell activity. CBDV was also effective in hum an cells\, reducing immunosuppressive markers by human myeloid suppressor cells. Altogether\, our findings indicate CBDV holds the potential to repr ogram immune system cells within the TME to strengthen the immune response against cancer.\n\n \; LOCATION: Hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/97039787933 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1191@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230905T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230905T133000 DTSTAMP:20230903T085708Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-roy-gu rwicz/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Roy Gurwicz [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion. zoom.us/j/97039787933 Roy Gurwicz\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sharon Nadav \n Identification of molecules which control in-vitro progenitor to endocr ine cell differentiation of hESCs-derived pancreatic cells\n\n\nType 1 dia betes is a chronic disease\, caused by the loss of insulin-producing β-ce lls which reside in the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. In-vitro differen tiation of human embryonic stem cells into β-cells could serve as a trans plantation source\, but the high cost and low yield of current protocols m ake this promising therapy unaffordable for most patients. Although endocr ine cells rarely divide\, in-vitro differentiation includes an intermediat e progenitor cell-state which\, if maintained\, could serve to expand the differentiating-cells' number\, and reduce costs.\nTo identify factors whi ch control the progenitor-endocrine balance\, we performed a high throughp ut screen using RNA-sequencing Of Selected Amplicons (ROSA-HTS) which allo ws targeted sequencing of hundreds of genes from thousands of samples. Of 1280 molecules\, we performed full RNA-sequencing on 89 “hits”\, and d iscovered novel effector molecules that shift progenitor-to-endocrine bala nce. Among these\, we discovered acetylcholine-receptor effectors (Nicotin ic agonist and Muscarinic antagonist) which induced progenitor gene-expres sion\, whereas PI3K\, AKT or mTOR inhibition induced an early endocrine st ate. In addition\, we discovered novel molecular pathways which were not d irectly targeted by the screen\, but whose mediated regulation uncovers a potential influence on pancreatic differentiation. For instance\, Interfer on-I inhibition seems to induce endocrine state\, whereas Interleukins 2 a nd 18 activation seems to induce progenitor state.\nAchieving the optimal combination of molecules which effect the progenitor-to endocrine balance is expected to have a synergic effect\, and thus increase yield of existin g protocols for β-cell differentiation.\n\n\n\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/970 39787933 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1196@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230904T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230904T140000 DTSTAMP:20230829T084207Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-stav-s hotan/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Stav Shotan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion. zoom.us/j/99587628620 Stav Shotan\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. David Meiri \n A novel cannabinoid reduces uterine hyperplasia caused b y tamoxifen in mice\nUterine hyperplasia is characterized by overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus\, causing it to become thicker than usu al. Uterine hyperplasia can lead to irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding\ , and in more severe cases\, it can increase the risk of developing endome trial cancer. The hormone estrogen plays a central role in endometrial pro liferation\, by binding to the estrogen receptor (ER) in the epithelial en dometrium. Many ER-positive breast cancer patients develop uterine hyperpl asia\, and it was found that some Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators ( SERMs) such as tamoxifen act as antagonists in the breast and as agonists in the uterus. In the breast\, tamoxifen blocks estrogen from binding the ER and hinders cell proliferation\, while in the uterus tamoxifen binds th e ER and coactivators complex and induces cell proliferation. In the Meiri ’s lab we have found a novel cannabinoid that reduces the expression of the ER through the Hippo signaling pathway\, and enhances the effect of ta moxifen on breast cancer. Therefore\, we hypothesized this cannabinoid may reduce ER expression in the endometrium\, and thus attenuate tamoxifen-in duced uterine hyperplasia. We utilized a new model to study tamoxifen-indu ced hyperplasia\, and found the cannabinoid treatment decreased uterine ma ss\, luminal thickness and proliferation of epithelial cells\, resulting a lso in less tissue dysmorphology. To conclude\, this novel cannabinoid can relieve uterine hyperplasia manifestations\, and could be combined with t amoxifen for ER-positive breast cancer patients. By treating endometrial h yperplasia patients may avoid surgery and preserve fertility\, have increa sed long-term health and quality of life and adhere to SERMs treatment. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j/995 87628620 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1197@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230904T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230904T133000 DTSTAMP:20230829T084133Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-galit- cohen/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Galit Cohen [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.z oom.us/j/99587628620 Galit Cohen\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Shenhav Cohen \n Developing a nutrient-based formulation to attenuate muscle wasting\nMuscle atrophy causes weakness and disability in aging\, i nactivity\, and in many diseases. This loss of muscle mass and strength is primarily due to the accelerated degradation of muscle proteins by the ub iquitin-proteasome system (UPS). The ubiquitin ligases\, F-Box (MAFbx/Atro gin-1) and Muscle RING-Finger 1 (MuRF-1)\, are induced in most types of at rophy and currently represent the best markers for atrophy. Their expressi on increases also by the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) family mem ber\, myostatin\, which functions as a negative regulator of skeletal musc le mass. Myostatin is produced by muscle\, and is excessively active in sy stemic catabolic conditions (including cancer cachexia and aging)\, causin g a severe muscle atrophy. Its inhibition is currently considered as the b est therapeutic approach to prevent or retard atrophy. Here we focus on th e development of a nutrient-based formulation that specifically targets my ostatin signaling for the treatment of muscle wasting in humans. LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/9958 7628620 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1192@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230829T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230829T140000 DTSTAMP:20230822T093245Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-dolev- elisha/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Dolev Elisha [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dolev Elisha\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof . Henn Arnon \n Title:\n\nRole of Myo19\, an actin-based mitochondria moto r\, during collective cell migration.\n\n \n\nAbstract:\n\nCellular migra tion is essential for embryonic development\, wound healing\, immune defen se\, and angiogenesis\, but it also is an enhancer of cancer metastasis an d inflammation. Cell migration is described as cycles of continuous actin branching at the cell leading edge\, focal adhesion (FA) sites assembly\, and disassembly and contraction of the cell trailing end. These highly ene rgy-consuming processes require positioning the mitochondria at FA sites a nd the leading edge of cells to supply ATP. In eukaryotes\, mitochondria a re solely associated with actin and microtubule filaments. The actin-based transport of mitochondria is mainly by the molecular motor Myo19\, which has been shown to transport mitochondria to actin protrusions at the cell ’s leading edge during cellular stress. We hypothesize that Myo19 plays an essential role in the motility and positioning of mitochondria in the c ell’s leading edge during migration. My goal is to determine the contrib ution of Myo19 during cellular migration. I will generate stable cell line s of inducible KD of Myo19 and perform collective in vitro cell migration by automated high throughput scratch assay ('wound healing') on stable Myo 19 KD cells. To this end\, the results display a significant reduction in cell migration rates in several cell lines. This suggests that Myo19 plays a role in coupling mitochondria positioning and mobility during cellular migration. Further research on the regulation of Myo19 might provide a new approach to metastatic cancer therapy.\n\n \;\n\n \; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1188@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230828T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230828T140000 DTSTAMP:20230814T095029Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-miriam -fokra/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Miriam Fokra [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/9391176471 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Shlomi Tomer\n &nb sp\;\n\nGlycine decarboxylase maintains mitochondrial protein lipoylation to support tumor growth\n\nThe folic acid cycle mediates the transfer of o ne-carbon (1C) units to support nucleotide biosynthesis. While the importa nce of serine as a mitochondrial and cytosolic donor of folate-mediated 1C units in cancer cells has been thoroughly investigated\, a potential role of glycine oxidation remains unclear. We developed an approach for quanti fying mitochondrial glycine cleavage system (GCS) flux by combining stable and radioactive isotope tracing with computational flux decomposition. We find high GCS flux in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)\, supporting nucleot ide biosynthesis. Surprisingly\, other than supplying 1C units\, we found that proper function of GCS is important for maintaining protein lipoylati on and mitochondrial activity. Genetic silencing of glycine decarboxylase (GLDC) inhibits the lipoylation and activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PD H) and impairs tumor growth\, suggesting a novel drug target for HCC.\n\n& nbsp\; LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /9391176471 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1190@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230816T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230816T133000 DTSTAMP:20230813T085515Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-alina- trestin/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Alina Trestin [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ TEAMS \n Affiliat ion: \n Host:Associate Prof. Henn Arnon\n MyoIC's effect on nucleolar stru cture and organization\nMyosins are predominantly recognized for their rol e in muscle contraction and cellular cargo transport. Interestingly\, one member of class IC myosin\, MyolC16 (Nuclear Myosin I\, NMI)\, exhibits lo calization within the nucleus and the nucleolus in addition to its cytopla smic localization and functions. Our lab and others demonstrated that NMI and actin are important for rRNA transcription by RNAPI in the nucleolus. In addition\, it was recently found to function in repairing heterochromat ic DNA damage in mammalians. In parallel unrelated studies\, it was shown how the integrity of DNA\, RNAPI transcription\, and rRNA aberrant transcr iption are highly correlated to cancer\, extensive cell proliferation\, an d neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. We hypothesize that NMI utilizes its contractile activity to provide the nuc leolus with its structure\, function\, and physiology. In my thesis\, I ai m to understand the molecular mechanism of NMI contractile activity in the dynamic nature of the nucleolus assembly essential for RNAPI transcriptio n. Thus\, my research aims to investigate the behavior and dynamics of the nucleolus at the molecular level. Using a genetic approach of Myo1C KD an d Super Resolution Microscopy\, I show that the presence of MyoIC necessit ates the formation of nucleolar substructures. This and more provide a new frontier targeting Myo1C's contribution to the pathophysiological manifes tations of the unhealthy nucleolus as the initiator and propagator of neur odegenerative diseases.\n\n \;\n\nlink for TEAMS\n\nhttps://teams.micr osoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ODM1OWRjMDQtMDdmOC00NTIzLTk2ZTAtOTFiM jkxMGY5MDU4%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22f1502c4c-ee2e-411c-971 5-c855f6753b84%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2279fcd2a9-a77d-47c3-93f8-b11b4d98dce3%22 %7d\n\nMeeting ID: 356 067 562 467\n\nPasscode: nf6rcu LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ TEAMS END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1189@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230808T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230808T140000 DTSTAMP:20230717T091311Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-bar-co hen/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Bar Cohen [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM:https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/92052655538 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Arava Yoav\n mRNA s Co-transport with Mitochondria in Neuronal Cells: Sequence Elements and Protein Factors\nNeurons are polarized cells with high energetic demands\, which are highly dependent on localized translation of nuclear-encoded mR NAs. Yet\, the transport mechanisms of the translation machinery component s\, namely the mRNA\, are largely unknown. We showed that mRNAs of nuclear -encoded mitochondrial genes are associated with mitochondria\, in both mo use neural-like cell lines and primary neurons. Furthermore\, live-imaging of mRNAs\, revealed that one of these mRNAs\, Cox7c\, is not only associa ted but also co-transported with moving mitochondria along neurites. Inter estingly\, the Cox7c mRNA coding sequence\, and specifically the predicted mitochondrial targeting sequence (MTS)\, rather than its 3’untranslated region\, was the significant domain for the mechanism. Our results sugges t that mRNAs encoding mitochondrial proteins are associated and transporte d with mitochondria in a manner that might involve translation. Genome-wid e analysis of mitochondria-associated mRNAs revealed diverse groups of mRN As\, implying a broad phenomenon. To identify the mediators of this associ ation we performed a proteomic identification of mRNA-associated proteins and investigated key candidate’s role in the co-transport. Together\, th e results support the idea that mitochondria can serve as mRNA shuttles an d help regulate the distribution of mRNAs in specific locations within neu rons. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium /ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j /92052655538 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1187@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230716T120000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230716T130000 DTSTAMP:20230709T141418Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/special-seminar-prof-cynthi a-wolberger-histone-h2b-ubiquitination-in-transcription-regulation/ SUMMARY:Special Seminar - Prof. Cynthia Wolberger-Histone H2B ubiquitinatio n in transcription regulation [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Prof. Cynthia Wolberge r \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Michael Glickman and Prof. Ashraf Brik.\n Histone H2B ubiquitination in transcription regulation\n\nAbstract \n\nPos t-translational modifications of histones play a central role in regulatin g all cellular processes requiring access to DNA. Cross-talk between histo ne modifications\, in which one histone modification regulates deposition of a second\, provides an additional layer of regulation and specificity. Monoubiquitinated histone H2B-K120 (humans\; K123 in yeast) is a hallmark of actively transcribed genes that plays multiple roles in activating tran scription. Our structural studies have revealed how H2B is specifically ub iquitinated and deubiquitinated\, as well as the mechanism by which H2B ub iquitination stimulates the enzymes that methylate histone H3K4 and H3K79\ , two other marks of actively-transcribed genes. H2B ubiquitination also r egulates access to the nucleosome acidic patch\, a hotspot for interaction s with other chromatin-modifying enzymes\, and our studies have provided i nsights into the underlying mechanism. We will also present work on identi fying novel inhibitors of USP22\, an H2B deubiquitinating enzyme subunit o f the SAGA coactivator.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1186@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230711T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230711T140000 DTSTAMP:20230703T081337Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-michae l-samin/ SUMMARY:MSc. Graduate Seminar- Michael Samin [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/97047969393 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Schuster Gadi\n S cavenging singlet oxygen - A key to avoid photoinhibition\n\n \;\n\nLi ght drives most life on earth as photosynthetic organisms convert it to a chemical energy. However\, too much light causes photodamage that may lead to photoinhibition (PI). Photodamage happens when photosynthetic electron s/energy are being transferred from the excited chlorophyll molecule to ox ygen. Those excited oxygen molecules are called ROS and they tend to damag e the photosynthetic complexes and particularly the D1 of photosystem II. Living in the desert\, the microalgae Chlorella ohadii is exhibiting excep tional resistance to extreme high light intensity. Here\, we analyzed the ROS formation in C. ohadi grown at high light intensity where other photos ynthetic organisms cannot survive. Examining the formation of different RO S revealed that singlet oxygen was almost completely depleted in HL cells compared to low light (LL) grown cells. These results implied that when gr own in HL\, a condition where massive amounts of protective carotenoids ac cumulate in the thylakoids\, singlet oxygen formation is significantly red uced. Together with additional PI protection mechanisms that evolved in C. ohadii (Levin et al Plant J. 2021) the enormous quenching of ROS accumula tion enables this alga to thrive at light intensities where others cannot survive. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /97047969393 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1185@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230711T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230711T133000 DTSTAMP:20230703T081623Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-nitsan -yehi-shalom/ SUMMARY:MSc. Graduate Seminar-Nitsan Yehi Shalom [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://techni on.zoom.us/j/97047969393 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Schuster Gadi \, Prof. Bronstein Alexander and Dr. Marx Ailie \n Silently Shaping Structur e- Exploring the role of synonymous genetic coding in shaping the local pr otein backbone structure\n\nIn the mid-20th century Christian Anfinsen\, l ater Nobel Prize winner\, showed that RNaseA can be denatured to lose stru cture and function and then subsequently renatured to regain both\, settin g the bedrock of our understanding of what governs protein folding. His ex periments suggested that proteins carry no memory of the genetic sequence from which they were translated\, despite 18 out of the 20 amino acids bei ng translated from non-unique\, synonymous\, codons. Subsequently\, geneti c alterations leaving the amino acid sequence unchanged were termed and la rgely considered `silent`. Later findings demonstrated that synonymous mut ations can alter translation speeds and accuracy affecting co-translationa l folding and the overall\, globular\, structure of the resultant protein. We have recently shown that synonymous codon usage is associated with the local structure (backbone dihedral angle distribution) of the translated amino acid. However\, these computational results are unable to establish causality\; the association may be evolutionary\, or an active translation -dependent effect. The goal of this project is to explore the latter\; can synonymous mutations alter the local structure of the encoded amino acids ? We are exploring this hypothesis by targeting proteins that on one hand give high-resolution X-ray diffraction patterns and on the other hand cont ain short noninteracting sequences whose initial (codon- sensitive) struct ure should be minimally affected by protein folding. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM:https://technion.zoom.us/j/ 97047969393 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1184@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230703T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230703T140000 DTSTAMP:20230625T073153Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-naama-ge va-zatorsky-monday-2-7-at-1300/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Dr. Naama Geva-Zatorsky\, Monday 3/7 at 13:00 [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Auditorium\, Faculty of Biology Dr. Naama Geva-Zaors ky\n Affiliation: Faculty of Medicine\, Technion\n Host:Sagi Levy\n The im munomodulatory treasure-trove of the gut microbiota\n\nEmerging evidence d emonstrates the pivotal role of gut microbes in shaping our immune system. Studies have shown a handful of immunomodulatory activities of a few indi vidual microbes and several consortia. We systematically characterized the role of over 50 human gut microbes from diverse genera and phyla\, repres enting the gut microbiota diversity. We find most microbes to have immunom odulatory effects spanning from innate to adaptive responses\, and with th e potential to be effective in a variety of diseases. Surprisingly\, these effects were not encoded in microbial phylogenetic background (i.e. micro bes from distant phyla could elicit similar effects and vice versa). And t hus\, this study opens a databank for immunomodulatory effects across phyl ogenetically diverse human gut microbes\, as well as a basis for our follo w-up studies on both the mechanisms of these interactions and the molecule s at play. LOCATION:Auditorium\, Faculty of Biology END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1179@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230627T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230627T140000 DTSTAMP:20230608T121017Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/biodesign-israel-innovation -meeting-in-the-faculty-of-biology-dr-lior-lev-tov/ SUMMARY:Biodesign Israel Innovation- meeting in the Faculty of Biology- Dr. Yona Vaisbuch Founder of Biodesign Israel [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Yona Vaisbuch \n A ffiliation: \n Host:\n Dear Biology Faculty Students\,\n\nWe are excited t o invite you to an exclusive meeting with a visionary leader in the health tech field\, and our esteemed Founding Director\, Yona Vaisbuch\, where yo u will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating intersection of Bio design and Biology. Together\, we'll delve into the proven healthtech inno vation method that originated at Stanford CA\, 'design thinking' as a way of life\, and the transformative power of a multidisciplinary approach. Jo in us on Tuesday\, June 27\, 2023\, from 1pm to 2pm to uncover how this on e-year program connects you to the vibrant ecosystem and industry upon you r graduation. We believe that the convergence of Biodesign and Biology hol ds immense promise for shaping the future of healthcare. By participating in our program\, you'll embark on a transformative journey where your expe rtise in biology intersects with the practical applications of healthtech innovation.\n\nThrough hands-on experiences and collaborations with expert s from diverse fields\, including engineering\, medicine\, and business\, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. We' ll explore how to identify unmet medical needs\, scope and develop innovat ive solutions and navigate the intricacies of bringing them to market. Dur ing this meeting\, we'll discuss how Biodesign Israel nurtures your potent ial\, connects you to the industry\, and fosters a mindset of innovation.\ n\nWe look forward to welcoming you to this engaging meeting!\n\nBest rega rds\n\nBiodesign Israel LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1183@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230626T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230626T140000 DTSTAMP:20230613T054645Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-viviane- slon-monday-26-6-at-1300/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Dr. Viviane Slon\, Monday 26/6 at 13:00 [No Catego ries] DESCRIPTION:Location: Dr. Viviane Slon\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sagi L evy\n Sedimentary Ancient DNA as a tool to study Human Evolution\n\n \ ;\n\nViviane Slon1\,2\n\n \;\n\n Department of Anatomy and Anthropolo gy and Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry\, Sackler F aculty of Medicine\, Tel Aviv University\, Israel\n The Dan David Center for Human Evolution and Biohistory Research\, Tel Aviv University\, Israel \n\n \;\n\n \;\n\nIn the past years\, DNA retrieved from ancient h uman remains have been instrumental in furthering our understanding of our own evolutionary past\, as well as that of our closest extinct relatives\ , the Neandertals and the Denisovans. Such studies\, however\, are inheren tly limited to sites and timeframes where such remains have been found and made available for sampling. A complementary approach can be to recover h uman DNA fragments from ancient sediments – a source material present in any archaeological site. Yet\, this approach is complicated by the need t o accurately identify the genuinely ancient human DNA fragments present in a sample\, out of a mixture of DNA from various sources. Here\, I will ou tline a methodology to do so\, including its highlights and pitfalls\, and demonstrate the potential of this research avenue using examples from pre historic sites in Europe and Asia.\n\n \; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1182@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230619T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230619T140000 DTSTAMP:20230613T054434Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-lior-a ppelbaum-monday-19-6-at-1300/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Prof. Lior Appelbaum\, Monday 19/6 at 13:00 [No Ca tegories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Prof. Lior Appelbaum\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sag i Levy\n Imaging DNA damage and neuronal maintenance in live sleeping anim als\n\nAbstract\n\nSleep is vital for survival of all animals\, ranging fr om jellyfish to fish and humans. Sleep improves brain performance\, such a s memory and learning\, however\, even invertebrates with simple nervous s ystem sleep\, and the core cellular function of this enigmatic behavior is unclear. We propose that single neuron\, located within intact networks\, require sleep across evolution. We combined real time imaging of single c hromosomes and repair proteins\, 3D particle motion analysis\, optogenetic s stimulation\, genetic manipulations\, calcium imaging\, as well as video tracking of behavior to study the interaction between sleep\, neuronal ac tivity\, DNA damage and repair in various species. We suggest that sleep u pregulates nuclear maintenance in neurons.\n\n \; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1180@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230612T131500 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230612T141500 DTSTAMP:20230606T091420Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-omri-wur tzel-monday-12-6-at-1300/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Dr. Omri Wurtzel\, Monday 12/6 at 13:15 [No Catego ries] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Omri Wurtzel\n Aff iliation: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Faculty of Life Sciences in Tel Aviv University\n Host:Dr. Sagi Levy\n No commitme nts: Planarian stem cells in regeneration and homeostasis\n\nAbstract\n\nR egeneration\, the regrowth of missing organs\, is a widespread survival st rategy contributing to recovery from injury and disease. My lab studies fu ndamental aspects of regeneration by using invertebrate model organisms th at have a remarkable capacity to regenerate: They can grow their entire he ad. In the seminar\, I will present two studies from our lab\, the first o n stem cell differentiation regulation by RNA modifications\, and the se cond on RNAi memory in stem cells. Together\, these studies provide insig hts into molecular mechanisms that facilitate regeneration and maintenance of pluripotency in adult organisms.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1181@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230612T111500 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230612T121500 DTSTAMP:20230607T094906Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/prof-jackie-schiller-from-t he-faculty-of-medicine-in-the-technion/ SUMMARY:Prof. Jackie Schiller from the Faculty of Medicine in the Technion [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Jackie Schiller \n Affiliat ion: Faculty of Medicine in the Technion \n Host:Prof. Yuval Garini\n Prof . Jackie Schiller from the Faculty of Medicine in the Technion as part of the André Cohen Deloro Research Prize Ceremony. The Schiller lab studies cortical computation. LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1178@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230605T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230605T140000 DTSTAMP:20230524T093309Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-associate-p rof-meytal-landau-virulent-and-antimicrobial-amyloids-in-infections-and-ne urodegeneration/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar- Associate Prof. Meytal Landau-Virulent and Antimic robial Amyloids in Infections and Neurodegeneration [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Associate Prof. Meytal Landau\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Levy Sagi\n Virulent and Antimicrobial Amyloids in Infections and Neurodegeneration\n\n \;\n\nMeytal Landau\n \n \;\n\nAmyloids are protein fibers with robust structures\, which ar e known mainly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases yet are secret ed by species across kingdoms of life to carry out physiological function and help survival and activity. For example\, several microbial amyloids s erve as key “weapons” making infections more aggressive. Thereby\, the y exposed new routes for the development of novel antivirulence drugs\, wh ich may elicit less resistance as the evolutionary pressure on the microbe is less profound compared to bactericidal drugs. Our laboratory published the first structures of bacterial amyloid fibrils involved in virulent ac tivities. Our findings thus far exposed an extreme structural diversity\, extending beyond canonical amyloid cross-β structures\, and encoding diff erent activities. In particular\, the discovery of a novel class of cross- α amyloid fibrils of toxic peptides presented a unique protein architectu re\, offered drug targets and leads\, and opened a fresh perspective to st udy amyloid-related toxicity. Moreover\, we revealed that amyloids secrete d by bacteria highly abundant in the microbiome and food sources show simi larities in molecular structures to human amyloids involved in neurodegene rative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. This might raise concerns about the involvement of microbes in facilitating these diseases\ , similar to prion proteins transmitted by contaminated meat that elicit t he Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.  In addition\, we identified peptides produ ced across species that provide antimicrobial protection that form amyloid fibrils and determined their first high resolution structures. This amylo id-antimicrobial link signifies a physiological role in neuroimmunity for human amyloids. Such antimicrobial fibrils can facilitate the design of fu nctional and stable nanostructures to serve as a stable coating for medica l devices or implants\, industrial equipment\, food packing and more.\n\nA tomic structures of amyloid fibrils determined by X-ray crystallography an d cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) of microbial and antimicrobial a myloids. A scanning electron micrograph shows cells damaged by a cytotoxic bacterial amyloid peptide\, and transmission electron micrographs display fibrils of antimicrobial peptides covering bacterial cells\, and of massi ve fibrils formed by biofilm-associated amyloids.\n\n \n\nReferences\n\n Tayeb-Fligelman\, O. Tabachnikov\, A. Moshe\, O. Goldshmidt-Tran\, M.R. S awaya\, N. Coquelle\, J-P. Colletier\, and M. Landau. Science 355(6327): 8 31-833\; 2017\n Salinas\, A. Moshe\, J-P. Colletier\, and M. Landau. Nat. Commun. 9(1):3512\; 2018.\n Perov\, O. Lidor\, N. Salinas\, N. Golan\, E . Tayeb-Fligelman\, M. Deshmukh\, D. Willbold\, and M. Landau. PLoS Pathog 15(8): e1007978\; 2019\n Tayeb-Fligelman\, N. Salinas\, O. Tabachnikov\, and M. Landau. Structure S0969-2126(19)30445-9\; 2020\n Engelberg and M. Landau. Nat. Commun. 11\, 3894\; 2020\n Salinas\, E. Tayeb-Fligelman\, M . Sammito\, D. Bloch\, R. Jelinek\, D. Noy\, I. Uson\, and M. Landau. PNAS 118 (3) e2014442118\; 2021\n Engelberg\, P. Ragonis-Bachar and M. Landau .    Biomacromolecules2022\n Bücker\, C. Seuring\, C. Cazey\, K. Vei th\, M. García-Alai\, K. Grünewald\, and M. Landau. The Cryo-EM Structu res of two Amphibian Antimicrobial Cross-β Amyloid Fibrils.  Nat. Commu n 13: 4356\; 2022\n Ragonis-Bachar*\, B. Rayan*\, E. Barnea\, Y.Engelberg \, A. Upcher\, M. Landau. Natural Antimicrobial Peptides Self-assemble as alpha/beta Chameleon Amyloids. ACS Biomacromolecules 12\;23(9):3713-3727 2 022\n LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1176@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230529T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230529T140000 DTSTAMP:20230508T114857Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-yaser- hashem/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Prof. Yaser Hashem [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Yaser Hashem\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Michael Glickman and Dr. Ayala Shiber\n Structural snapshot s of the cytosolic and mitochondrial mRNA translation machineries in kinet oplastids\n\nmRNA translation is a universally conserved process consistin g on translating the genetic code into proteins. Translation is mainly ope rated by the ribosome and because of its essentiality\, it is the target o f numerous prescribed antibiotics\, in part thanks to the large structural and functional discrepancies between the bacterial and human ribosomes. H owever\, when the pathogen is a eukaryotic organism\, such as a kinetoplas tid (e.g.\, trypanosomes and leishmania)\, this strategy become difficult to apply\, because of the conservation of the eukaryotic ribosome. Among t he most infamously known kinetoplastids related to human health\, Trypano soma cruzi and Leishmania major\, responsible of the Chagas disease and various leishmaniasis. While it is accepted that the eukaryotic ribosome is highly conserved\, substantial species-specific structural and regulato ry differences can exist among eukaryotes\, especially in the case of mito chondrial ribosomes that are highly specialized and only translates a doze n proteins most of which are subunits of the respiratory chain complexes. I will describe some of the kinetoplastids-specific features of cytosolic and mitochondrial mRNA translation\, which were unveiled mainly thanks to structural biology and the use of cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM). \n\n \; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1175@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230522T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230522T140000 DTSTAMP:20230508T114722Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-asya-r olls/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Prof. Asya Rolls [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Asya Rolls \n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sagi Levy\n Immunoception: brain representation and control of peripheral immunity \n\n \;\n\nThoughts and emotions can impact phys iology. This connection is evident in the emergence of disease following s tress\, psychosomatic disorders\, or recovery in response to placebo treat ment. Nevertheless\, this fundamental aspect of physiology remains largely unexplored. In this talk\, I will focus on the bidirectional communicatio n between the brain and the immune system\, a mechanism we recently coined as immunoception. The brain represents that state of the immune response and forms “immunengrams” that can regulate different immune reactions. In this talk\, I will discuss how the brain stores and represents immune information and how the brain’s predictive capacity can be implemented i n central immune system control. A mechanistic understanding of the neuro- immune dialog has potential implications for understanding and treating ps ychosomatic and autoimmune disorders and may offer new avenues for immune- modulation. LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1177@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230516T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230516T140000 DTSTAMP:20230509T053152Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-nimrod -golan/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Nimrod Golan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Place: Hybrid - In the faculty auditorium and on Zoom https://technion.zoom.us/j/91249440287 Nimrod Golan\n Affiliation: \n Ho st:Associate Prof. Landau Meytal \n The Dance of the Amyloids: The Intrica te Interactions of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm-Associated Amyloids FapB and FapC\n\nIn my study\, I delved into the intricate interactions of Fap B and FapC\, the main amyloid proteins involved in stabilizing biofilms fo rmed by the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Biofilm formati on is a key factor in the pathogen's virulence and persistence in patients with lung disease and other comorbidities. We examined the effects of dif ferent environmental conditions on the fibrillation rates\, morphologies\, and biophysical properties of FapB and FapC. Our investigation also looke d into the stability of these proteins in harsh conditions and explored th eir interactions within varying environmental factors. We hypothesized the reasons for having two different amyloid proteins in the same system. Add itionally\, we identified promising molecules that can inhibit FapC fibril formation\, potentially reducing biofilm biomass in P. aeruginosa strains . Overall\, this study enhances our understanding of the roles played by F apB and FapC in biofilm formation and highlights potential strategies to d isrupt P. aeruginosa biofilms. LOCATION:Place: Hybrid - In the faculty auditorium and on Zoom https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/91249440287 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1174@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230515T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230515T140000 DTSTAMP:20230508T114441Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-zeev-a rad/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Prof. Zeev Arad [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Zeev Arad\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sagi Levy\n Eco-physiological research and wetland conservation: insights from pelican and cormorant studies in Israel. \n\n \n\nThe dete rioration of wetlands resulting from global climate change\, development\, and habitat fractionation render long-distance migrating birds face diffi culties in finding proper sites for rest and re-fueling. In Israel\, which is a bottleneck for some 600 million migrating birds\, the drainage of th e Hula Lake resulted in serious conflicts with intensive fisheries and agr iculture. Implementation of various deterrence methods\, including killing \, failed to solve these conflicts. We have offered the concept that only the understanding of the biology of the organism in question may give us t he tools (indications) for a proper management that will solve such confli cts while helping the preservation of natural assets such as wetlands.\n\n We demonstrate this in solutions reached in the case studies of pelicans a nd cormorants. We have studied their physiological condition\, food prefer ence\, energy demands and ecological constraints. As a result\, we were ab le to offer differential management and implement our suggested solutions with the full cooperation of the fishermen and the nature preservation aut horities. We have shown that such solutions are economically helpful for f ishermen and enable the preservation of the wetland habitat.  \n\n \; \n\n \; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1173@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230509T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230509T133000 DTSTAMP:20230430T100204Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-joelle -lahmi/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Joelle Lahmi [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: https://technion.zoom.us/j/92411416633 Joelle Lahmi\ n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Mandel-Gutfreund Yael \n Studying RNA transcr iption regulation via RNA-binding proteins\n\n \;\n\nDRBP are proteins capable of binding DNA and RNA. Due to their dual capacity\, those protei ns can act at different steps of the gene expression pathway.  Recent stu dies employing ChIP-seq have shown that several RNA-binding proteins (RBPs ) bind chromatin at the promoter region\, suggesting a relationship betwee n RBPs and transcription regulation.  However\, only a few overlaps were shown between the binding sites of the RBPs on DNA and on RNA. The aim of my thesis is to explore RNA binding protein interactions with chromatin vi a transcription factors. We first employed an experimental approach\, usin g the CUT&\;RUN technique on SRSF1\, a splicing factor that belongs to the human SR family protein. We show that in human embryonic stem cells\, SRSF1 binds DNA\, preferably at gene promoter regions\, in a sequence spec ific manner.  We found that the preferred binding motif of SRSF1 resemble s the binding motif of the NFY transcription factor (TF) family\, suggesti ng that it binds the DNA through TF interaction. We further employed a com putational approach for exploring  the binding preferences of other RBPs on the DNA We further  developed a motif search approach and a position-b ased approach for predicting putative interactions between RBPs and TFs   and applied it on  publicly available  high throughput binding data from human K562 cells.\n\n \; LOCATION:https://technion.zoom.us/j/92411416633 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1170@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230503T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230503T140000 DTSTAMP:20230419T094311Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-amir-a rgoetti/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Amir Argoetti [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium: https:https://technion .zoom.us/j/91517111637 Amir Argoetti\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Mandel- Gutfreund Yael\n Transcription Factors-RNA interaction: a new layer of cel lular regulation\n\nGene expression is a complex process tightly regulated by various proteins\, including DNA-binding proteins (DBPs) and RNA-bindi ng proteins (RBPs). However\, little is known about proteins that can bind both DNA and RNA\, referred to as DNA-RNA binding proteins (DRBPs). In th is study\, we identified over 40 transcription factors (TFs) including the pluripotent factors OCT4 and STAT3\, the latter known also for it’s rol es in immune system and cancer progression. Using enhanced-CLIP we found t hat STAT3 directly interacts the long non-coding RNA involved in DNA stabi lity\, NORAD. Further\, by conducting extensive functional analyses we sho w that the binding of NORAD to STAT3 has a key role in anti-viral response both in pluripotent and fully differentiated cells. In healthy cells\, it effectively silences the antiviral pathway\, while upon infection it allo ws a rapid shift towards activation of\, viral defense genes. Intriguingly \, we found that the function of NORAD is unique to humans and not observe d in mice\, despite the conservation of other functions across mammalian e volution.\n\nThe identification of a direct interaction between STAT3 and NORAD\, its mechanism and its function\, adds a new dimension of knowledge regarding DRBPs' roles in rapid cellular response to the environment. Add itionally\, this human-specific function of NORAD underscores the contribu tion of this study to understanding species-specific gene regulation.\n\n& nbsp\; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium: https:https://technion.zoom.us/j/91 517111637 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1168@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230501T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230501T140000 DTSTAMP:20230418T103650Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-assoc-prof- sigal-savaldi-goldstein/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar -Assoc. Prof. Sigal Savaldi-Goldstein [No Categorie s] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Assoc. Prof. Sigal Savaldi-Goldst ein\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr.Sagi Levy\n The ins and outs of meristem fun ction and shape\n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\n \;\n\nGrowth extent and di rection determine cell and whole-organ architecture. How they are spatio-t emporally coordinated across distinct cell types is one of the questions t ackled in our lab. Using a variety of approaches ranging from developmenta l genetics to precise single-cell tools that quantify growth parameters in 4D\, we study the role of hormonal signaling\, tissue identity and mechan ical constraints that together dictate the developmental output. We focus on the Arabidopsis root as a model organ and on the critical brassinostero id signaling pathway\, as an entry point to elucidate developmental proces ses and their interaction with the environment. This talk will present our current understanding regarding growth directionality at both the cell an d meristem levels\, coordination between meristematic cells as well as the function of the meristem.\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1167@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230404T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230404T140000 DTSTAMP:20230316T121733Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-bella- ben-oz/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Bella Ben-Oz [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium:https://technion.zoom.u s/j/94957315009 Bella Ben-Oz\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Nabi eh Ayoub\n A dual role of RBM42 in modulating splicing and translation dur ing DNA damage response: A spotlight on CDKN1A/p21 gene\n\n \;\n\nAbst ract\n\np53-mediated cell cycle arrest during DNA damage is dependent on t he induction of p21 protein\, encoded by the CDKN1A gene. p21 inhibits cyc lin-dependent kinases required for cell cycle progression to guarantee acc urate repair of DNA lesions. Hence\, fine-tuning of p21 levels is crucial for maintaining genomic stability. Currently\, the multilayered regulation  of p21 levels during DNA damage is not fully understood. Herein\, we ide ntified the human RNA binding motif protein 42 (RBM42) as a novel regulato r of p21 levels during DNA damage. Genome-wide transcriptome and interacto me analysis revealed that RBM42 alters the expression of p53-regulated gen es during DNA damage. Specifically\, we demonstrated that RBM42 facilitate s CDKN1A splicing during DNA damage by counteracting the splicing inhibito ry activity of RBM4 protein. Unexpectedly\, we also showed that RBM42 toge ther with its proximity translation factor\, CUGBP1\, underpins translatio n of various splicing targets\, including CDKN1A\, following DNA damage. C oncordantly\, transcriptome-wide mapping of RBM42-RNA interactions using e CLIP revealed that following DNA damage\, RBM42 binds the 5’UTR of hundr eds of genes. These findings suggest that RBM42 is primarily involved in m odulating DNA damage-induced translation. Collectively\, our data show tha t RBM42 couples splicing and translation machineries to fine-tune gene exp ression during DNA damage response.\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium:https://technion.zoom.us/j/949573150 09 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1169@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230403T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230403T140000 DTSTAMP:20230321T084159Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-prof-david- sprinzak/ SUMMARY:Faculty Seminar: Prof. David Sprinzak [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Prof. David Sprinzak\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Sagi Levy\n Precise patterning in the inner ear\ n\n \;\n\nAbstract:\n\n \;\n\nPrecise periodic organization of cel ls is required for the function of many organs and tissues. It is often un clear\, however\, how such precise patterns emerge during development. The mammalian hearing organ\, the organ of Corti\, consists of a remarkably o rganized pattern of four rows of hair cells (HC) interspersed by non-senso ry supporting cells (SC). These four rows further split into three rows of outer HC and one row of inner HC separated by a single row of pillar cell s. The checkerboard-like pattern of HC and SC emerges from a disordered ep ithelium over several days\, yet the transition from a disordered to an or dered cellular pattern is not well understood. Using time-lapse imaging of mouse cochlear explants and mathematical modeling\, we show how mechanica l forces drive dynamic intercalation and delamination events enabling the transition from an initially disordered salt-and-pepper pattern to a preci sely organized pattern of HC and SC. We first show that the organization o f the three outer HC rows is driven by a tissue-wide shear motion that coo rdinates intercalation and delamination events to achieve precision patter ning. We next show that the single row of inner HCs is refined from an ini tial 2-3 rows wide salt-and-pepper pattern through a combination of two ma in morphological transitions: (i) A novel type of an intercalation process \, termed ‘hopping intercalation’\, where future HC ‘hop’ from one apical position to another. This is performed by sending a sub-apical pro trusion that opens a new apical surface next to the pillar cell row. (ii) Cells that are selected to become HC\, but fail to contact the pillar cell row\, are delaminated and remove from the tissue. Mathematical modeling t hat combines feedback between regulatory processes (i.e. Notch mediated la teral inhibition) and mechanical processes can capture the main experiment al observations and generates testable predictions. Overall\, our experime ntal and theoretical analysis suggests that a feedback between Notch media ted differentiation and mechanically driven morphological transitions unde rlies the development of precise periodic HC patterning in the inner ear.\ nSprinzak lab: https://www.sprinzak.sites.tau.ac.il/ LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1165@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230328T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230328T133000 DTSTAMP:20230308T082329Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-shiraz -schiller/ SUMMARY:MSc. Graduate Seminar- Shiraz Schiller [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium: https://technion.zoom. us/j/93656461086 Shiraz Schiller\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Meiri David\n Estrogen Receptor Modulation by a Newly-Identified Phytocann abinoid in a Preclinical Model of Breast Cancer\n\nBreast cancer is made u p of different subtypes that respond differently to treatments. Tumors tha t express estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and depend on estrogen for propag ation constitute 60%-70% of all cases. They are commonly treated with endo crine therapy such as Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)\, the best known of which is Tamoxifen. However\, despite its obvious benefits\ , many patients that start Tamoxifen therapy do not complete the whole tim e-course because of adverse effects. Here\, we identified a novel phytocan nabinoid from whole extracts of Cannabis\, which we termed 373.15b\, that was able to prime ER-positive tumors to the cytotoxic effect of tamoxifen without any toxicity by itself. Thus\, allowing the use of significantly l ower doses while still achieving the same outcome. A similar effect of 373 .15b was demonstrated in combination with other types of SERMs as well. 37 3.15b affects estrogen signaling by decreasing the protein expression leve ls of ERα and its transcriptional activity. We show its mechanism of acti on involves the modulation of the Hippo signaling pathway. Our work sugges ts that co-therapy for ER-positive breast cancer patients with SERMs and 3 73.15b can reduce the treatment dosage of the conventional therapy and by that diminish the associated adverse effects and improve patient quality o f life.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium: https://technion.zoom.us/j/93656461 086 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1166@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230321T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230321T140000 DTSTAMP:20230316T070946Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-layla- saied/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Layla Saied [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/https://technion.zoom.us/j/98681053470?pwd=Tk1lR3pqOTdEMy9oQW8 zbFFDOUxoUT09 Layla Saied\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Kleifeld Oded \n Cha racterization of Peroxismoal Proteins Changes in Response to Stress\n\n&nb sp\;\n\nPeroxisomes are organelles with a single bilayer membrane that enc loses a soluble matrix space. Their importance is highlighted by the sever e inherited diseases that result from impairments in one or more peroxisom al functions. These organelles are highly diverse and can contain various sets of enzymes. Most types of peroxisomes are involved in beta-oxidation of fatty acids and maintaining reactive oxygen species homeostasis. Peroxi somes can adapt to different functions by importing different proteins and enzymes.\n\nProper functionality of this organelle requires specific qual ity control. One of the enzymes that have an important role in maintaining the peroxisome homeostasis and functionality is the peroxisomal isoform L on peptidase 2 (LonP2). The enzyme has both a chaperone activity and prote olytic activity. However\, not a lot is known about the function of this L on protease isoform.\n\nI will present a new method developed to study the peroxisomal import machinery and the results obtained from it. Additional ly\, I will outline the results obtained through various cellular\, bioche mical\, and proteomics approaches regarding the role of LonP2.\n\n \;\ n\n \; LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/h ttps://technion.zoom.us/j/98681053470?pwd=Tk1lR3pqOTdEMy9oQW8zbFFDOUxoUT09 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1164@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230308T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230308T140000 DTSTAMP:20230302T101734Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-seminar-nimrod-krupnik/ SUMMARY:PhD. Seminar-Nimrod Krupnik [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/96415693766 Nimrod Krupnik\n Affiliation: \n Host:Associate Prof. Meiri David\n Anti-cancer compounds from East Mediterranean seaweed s\n\nThis project is aimed to study the anti-cancer effect of the East Med iterranean seaweeds to point out seaweeds of interest for future investiga tion and to highlight the importance of understanding their chemical compo sition for future drugs development. By Integrating statistical models\, w e aim to supply deep insight into potential seaweed-based compounds for fu rther research as anti-cancer agents. In this work frame\, we conducted a thorough annual screening of 38 genera of East Mediterranean seaweeds for anti-cancer activity against non-small cell lung carcinoma (NCSLC) A549\, prostate cancer (PC3)\, and colon carcinoma (HT29) cell lines. Based on ou r results\, we focused on the red seaweeds Jania rubens and Asparagopsi s teaxiformies as potential candidates for the isolation of bioactive com pounds. We further analyze each extract with High-Resolution Mass Spectrom etry Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HRMS-UHPLC) and analyze d the metabolomic profile through GNPS workflow to visualize the Molecular Network of natural products. Combining of the biological and the spectral data allows us to apply statistical models such as PLS-DA and Spearman’ s correlation to point out compounds of interest with biological effect. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /96415693766 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1160@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230215T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230215T140000 DTSTAMP:20230131T080213Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-hila-b en-arie-zilberman/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Hila Ben-arie Zilberman [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/6141638094 Hila Ben-arie Zilberman\n Affiliation: \n Host: Dr. Shiber Ayala\n  \;\n\nISG15 and ISGylation at the ribosome: mecha nistic analysis\, innate immune response\, and impact on translation\n\n&n bsp\;\n\nThe innate immune response is the first line of defense against a ll pathogens. The response incorporates the secretion of cytokines like ty pe I interferons (IFN-I). There are hundreds of interferon-stimulated gene s (ISGs)\, with ISG15 being one of the primary ones. ISG15 is a ubiquitin -like protein\, which rapidly modifies a vast array of cellular and viral targets via a mechanism known as ISGylation. Like ubiquitination\, ISGylat ion is mediated via an E1-E2-E3 enzymatic cascade. The main ISG15-E3 ligas e has been associated with translating ribosomes\, suggesting ISG15 prefer ably modifies newly synthesized proteins. Yet\, their effects on the cellu lar translatome\, protein turnover\, and feedback to the transcriptome rem ain largely unknown. Here we provide structural modeling analysis of the k nown ISG15 ligases: HERC5\, HHARI\, and TRIM25. This revealed putative ISG 15 and substrate interaction sites\, as well as putative binding sites nea r the ribosome exit tunnel. Analyzing HeLa-/-isg15 deletion cells by polys ome profiling\, we found a cellular translation inhibition phenotype. Thes e cells display lower translation levels\, with and without interferon tre atment. This is in stark contrast to WT HeLa cells\, displaying inhibition of translation\, only following IFN treatment. Transfection of HeLa-/-isg 15  cells with an IFN-induced vector carrying ISG15 rescued the translati on inhibition phenotype. Next\, we will perform proteomics and mRNA analys is of translating ribosomes purified from HeLa\, HeLa-/-isg15\, and U2OS c ells\, with and without IFN treatment. This will provide mechanistic insig ht into ISG15 and ribosomal function during infection.\n\n \;\n\nWill be in English LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /6141638094 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1159@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230215T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230215T133000 DTSTAMP:20230124T124120Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-muhamm ad-makhzumy/ SUMMARY:MSc Graduate Seminar- Muhammad Makhzumy [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/https://technion.zoom.us/j/6141638094 Muhammad Makhzumy\n Af filiation: \n Host:Dr. Shiber Ayala\n Developing a single molecule approac h to selective ribosome profiling\n\n \;\n\nmRNA-protein interactions are at the center of the translation process. Ribosome-associated factors\ , from modifying enzymes to molecular chaperones\, play a pivotal role in facilitating the folding of the emerging nascent chain\, protecting it fro m aberrant interactions in the crowded cytoplasm. However\, the interplay between the various ribosome-associated factors remains largely obscure. W hat is the mode of interplay? Do they compete for binding? Is there a coor dinated handover? By only observing population averages we can miss crucia l mechanistic features. To address this\, we are developing a single molec ule approach\, targeting two canonical ribosome-associated chaperones:  R AC-SSB1  and NAC-alpha (Stress-Seventy subfamily B subunit of the ribosom e-associated complex and Alpha subunit of the Nascent Polypeptide-Associat ed Complex\, respectively). We have generated two chimeric constructs unde r an inducible promoter\; Fusing the co-translationally acting factor RAC- SSB1 with N6-adenosine methyltransferase IME4\, and the co-translationally acting factor NAC-alpha with RNA-specific adenosine deaminase ADAR2 catal ytic domain. Recent development in Oxford nanopore sequencing platform sen sitivity has allowed for the identification of enzymatically modified nucl eotides. We are utilizing this advance to detect co-translational interact ion in vivo\, by labeling the mRNAs nucleotides in close proximity to thos e interactions. Using immunoprecipitation\, we demonstrated that our chime ric constructs show a strong ribosomal association.  Polysome profiling d emonstrated that the attached RNA-modifying enzymes are in proximity to tr anslated mRNA. RNA extraction following induction and sequencing of the en tire orfs using NanoPore revealed significant changes in the electrical ou tput of samples\, strongly suggesting the presence of modified bases in th e test strain. Further analysis will reveal the interplay between SSB1 and NACα and establish a platform for analysis of various co-translational f actors interaction in single-molecule resolution.\n\nThe lecture will be g iven in English LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/h ttps://technion.zoom.us/j/6141638094 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1162@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230214T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230214T133000 DTSTAMP:20230129T091648Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-2/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar- Shany Greenstein [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/93416730395 Shany Greenstein\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof . Glickman Michael\n Understanding the turnover of the truncated form of m utant ubiquitin UBB+1\, UBBG76Y\n\nUbiquitin is a 76 amino acid molecule t hat labels proteins for degradation. Its C-terminus at 76 glycine is conju gated to the side chain of a substrate lysine. The only known ubiquitin mu tant is ubiquitin B+1 (UBB+1)\, caused by a non-heredity missense mutation during transcription of the UBB gene. The resulting protein is a ubiquiti n domain with a G76Y mutation and an additional 19 amino acids (AA) tail. This UBB+1 protein is found in sporadic and familial AD brains. It was rec ently shown in our lab that the expression of UBB+1 accelerates AD patholo gy. UBB+1 has been claimed to be cleaved by a carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L3 (UCHL3)\, resulting in a truncated form of UBB+1: ubiquitin wit h a G76Y mutation (UBG76Y). Lacking a C-terminal glycine at position 76\, UBG76Y is unable to conjugate to substrates. To date\, little is known abo ut UBG76Y. We wanted to study the fate of UBG76Y and understand whether it alleviates or exacerbates the stress imposed by UBB+1. We generated a UCH L3 KO cell line in HEK293 using CRISPR/Case9 and showed that UCHL3 is the main enzyme that cleaves UBB+1 in mammalian cells. We also expressed UBG76 Y in HEK293 cells and observed that UBG76Y does not accumulate  to the sa me extent as UBB+1. In addition\, by inhibiting degradation pathways we pr ovide evidence that UBG76Y is degraded by autophagy. To summarize\, conver ting UBB+1 to UBG76Y may be a strategy of cells to alleviate the stress as sociated with UBB+1 . LOCATION: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.u s/j/93416730395 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1163@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230208T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230208T133000 DTSTAMP:20230129T135244Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/msc-graduate-seminar-mahmou d-yazbak/ SUMMARY:Msc Graduate Seminar-Mahmoud Yazbak [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/91959760710 Mahmoud Yazbak\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Aran Dvir\n Reference-based deep examination of single-cell RNA-seq clusters\n \nIdentifying the biological state of each single cell is arguably the mos t challenging task in scRNA-seq data analysis. Doing so requires bridging the gap between the current dataset and prior biological knowledge\, and t he latter is not always available in a consistent manner. To improve this process\, we've developed reference datasets for mouse and human containin g over 60\,000 samples of over 200 cell types each\, from publicly availab le studies. Using these reference datasets\, we've developed a refined ver sion of our previously published scRNA-seq annotation tool SingleR\, which allows us to discover new findings within scRNA-seq datasets\, such as ce ll type annotations\, errors made in previous annotation and clustering at tempts\, subtypes or substates of cells and clusters\, identification of r are or diseased cell types\, and more. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /91959760710 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1161@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230206T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230206T140000 DTSTAMP:20230129T083333Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-rawad- hanna/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Rawad Hanna [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/92993324901 Rawad Hanna\n Affiliation: \n Host:Dr. Kleifel d Oded \n Title: comprehensive terminomic characterization of biological s ystems.\n\nSeminar abstract:\n\nProtein termini carry valuable information related to protein activity\, localization\, interaction and stability. L earning these various properties can be detrimental to the complete unders tanding of different biological systems. Characterization of all protein t ermini (terminome) by standard proteomic approaches is challenging due to their small amounts in the whole proteome sample. Therefore\, enrichment m ethods for the N- and C-termini of proteins have been developed\, and they have provided insights that would otherwise be difficult to obtain. Yet\, all current enrichment methods have many limitations preventing them from revealing the complete terminome. Aiming to in-depth characterization of protein termini and their modifications\, we developed two methods that we termed LATE and CAPE as novel N-terminal and C-terminal enrichment method s. We deployed our methods in various biological systems. Among our key fi ndings was the cross-talk between proteolysis and post-translational Nt-ac etylation\, which we identified and characterized in apoptosis. In additio n\, we discovered hundreds of novel putative substrates of caspase-3 and h ighlighted a putative proteolysis-derived translation inhibition mechanism . LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /92993324901 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1157@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230201T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230201T140000 DTSTAMP:20230115T131149Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-iris-w yrobnik/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Iris Wyrobnik [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://te chnion.zoom.us/j/94968602637 \n Affiliation: Iris Wyrobnik\n Host:Associ ate Prof. David Meiri Lab\n  \;\n\nDecreased melanoma CSF-1 secretion by Cannabigerol treatment reprograms regulatory myeloid cells and reduces tumor progression\n\n \;\n\nDuring solid tumor progression\, the tumor microenvironment (TME) evolves into a highly immunosuppressive milieu. Ke y players in the immunosuppressive environment are regulatory myeloid cell s\, including Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associate d macrophages (TAMs)\, which are recruited and activated via tumor-secrete d cytokines such as colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1). Therefore\, the d epletion of tumor-secreted cytokines is a leading anticancer strategy. Her e\, we found that CSF-1 secretion by melanoma cells is decreased following treatment with Cannabis extracts. Cannabigerol (CBG) was identified as th e bioactive cannabinoid responsible for the effects. Conditioned media fro m cells treated with pure CBG or the high-CBG extract reduced the expansio n and macrophage transition of the monocytic-MDSC subpopulation. Treated M O-MDSCs also expressed lower levels of iNOS\, leading to restored CD8+ T-c ell activation. Tumor-bearing mice treated with CBG presented reduced tumo r progression\, lower TAM frequencies and reduced TAM/M1 ratio. A combinat ion of CBG and αPD-L1 was more effective in reducing tumor progression an d increasing the infiltration of activated cytotoxic T-cells than each tre atment separately. We show a novel mechanism for CBG in modulating the TME and enhancing immune checkpoint blockade therapy\, underlining its promis ing therapeutic potential for the treatment of a variety of tumors with el evated CSF-1 expression. LOCATION: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.u s/j/94968602637 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1154@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230126T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230126T140000 DTSTAMP:20230112T082616Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/dr-avner-wallach-zuckerman- mind-brain-and-behavior-institute-at-columbia-university-ny/ SUMMARY:Dr. Avner Wallach - Zuckerman Mind\, Brain\, and Behavior Institute at Columbia University\, NY [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Avner Wallach\n Af filiation: \n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n An Internal Model of Sen sorimotor Context in Freely Swimming Electric Fish\n\nInternal models that predict the sensory consequences of motor actions are vital for sensory\, motor\, and cognitive functions. However\, under real-world conditions\, the relationships between motor action and sensory input are complex and m ay vary moment-to-moment depending on the environmental context. At the ne ural circuit level\, little is known about how predictions are generated u nder such challenging conditions. Using novel methods for underwater neura l recording\, quantitative analysis of unconstrained behavior\, and comput ational modeling\, I’ve found evidence for an unexpectedly sophisticated internal model at the first stage of active electrosensory processing in mormyrid fish. Closed-loop manipulations reveal that individual electrosen sory lobe neurons are capable of learning and storing multiple context-spe cific predictions of the sensory consequences of motor commands. These res ults provide mechanistic insights into how internal\, motor-related signal s and information about environmental context are combined within cerebell um-like circuitry to predict the sensory consequences of natural behavior. Finally\, I will discuss using the electric fish as a model for studying the interactions between low-level sensorimotor circuits and high-level me mory and decision-making circuits.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1158@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230125T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230125T140000 DTSTAMP:20230115T131359Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-inbar- arman/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar- Inbar Arman [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://tech nion.zoom.us/j/99468656897 \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Reiter Yoram\n I mmunomodulation of EAE with Antibodies Targeting Autoreactive T-Cell Epito pes\n\n \;\n\nMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating autoimmune di sease influencing more than 2.5 million people around the world. Damage ca used in this disease\, which is mediated by auto-reactive CD4+ T cells\, d isrupts nerve cell signaling\, resulting in variety of symptoms\, such as blurred vision\, muscle stiffness and numbness. Previous studies suggested that human MS disease is associated with HLA-DR2 (DRB1*1501) MHC class II allele. Presentation of myelin associated epitopes\, such as myelin oligo dendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) on HLA-DR2 by Antigen Presenting Cells (APCs ) to autoreactive CD4+ T cells in a pro-inflammatory context\, results in autoreactive T cell activation and consequently demyelination and nerve ce lls damage. Since MHC:TCR interaction is the immune response core driving force and is also the most specific check-point in the inflammatory proces s\,   targeting myelin associated epitopes presented in the context of M HC class II molecules by APCs may decrease myelin-specific autoreactive CD 4+ T cell activation and consequently reduce the inflammatory process duri ng MS. This goal may be achieved using T cell receptor like (TCRL) antibod y- based (a) Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cells\, targeted against my elin associated epitopes presented by APCs\, aiming for APCs destruction/s uppression or (b) TCRL-PDL1 conjugated molecule\, targeted against both PD 1+ autoreactive T cells and myelin associated epitopes presented by APCs\, delivering specific immune response attenuation against self\, mediated b y the TCRL arm\, while inducing local autoreactive T cell inhibition via t he PD-L1 arm. Accordingly\, we have isolated and characterize TCRL antibod ies with specificity toward MOG/DR2 epitope and tested their MS therapeuti c effect as MOG/DR2-CAR-T cells and MOG/DR2-PDL1 bi-specific molecules. Ou r results suggests that anti-MOG/DR2-CD8+ CAR T cells show specific elimin ation of MOG/DR2 presenting APCs in-vitro\, but exacerbate disease symptom s in-vivo\, while anti-MOG/DR2 CAR T regulatory cells induce autoreactive T cell inhibition ex-vivo and should be further examined in-vivo. Also\, a dministration of anti-MOG/DR2-PDL1 bi-specific molecules induce target-spe cific autoreactive T cell inhibition ex-vivo but shows inconclusive result s in-vivo and accordingly should be further optimized and examined as MS t herapeutic tool. LOCATION: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/ j/99468656897 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1153@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230123T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230123T140000 DTSTAMP:20230112T082313Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/dr-tomer-shpilka-department -of-molecular-cell-and-cancer-biology-at-the-university-of-massachusetts-c han-medical-school/ SUMMARY:Dr. Tomer Shpilka - Department of Molecular\, Cell and Cancer Biolo gy at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Tomer Shpilka\n Af filiation: \n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n The UPRmt coordinates mi tochondrial network expansion and peroxisome biogenesis in the model organ ism Caenorhabditis elegans\n\nAs organisms develop\, individual cells gene rate mitochondria and peroxisomes to fulfill their physiological requireme nts. A decline\, or dysfunction in these organelles is associated with age ing and a vast array of clinical manifestations including metabolic disord ers and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite this\, it is unknown how mitoc hondrial network expansion and peroxisome biogenesis is scaled to cell gro wth\, and what compensatory pathways cells employ to maintain the organell es’ function. The mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) is a s ignaling pathway mediated by the transcription factor ATFS-1. Using geneti c and biochemical approaches in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans we demonstrate that ATFS-1 mediates an adaptable mitochondrial network exp ansion and peroxisome biogenesis program that is active throughout normal development. We characterized the molecular mechanism and signaling events that regulate the UPRmt and uncovered a peroxisomal retrograde response t hat is required for peroxisome biogenesis. These findings as well as the t herapeutic potential and future directions of my studies will be presented .\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1152@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230119T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230119T140000 DTSTAMP:20230109T131736Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/dr-tal-iram-department-of-n eurology-and-neurological-sciences-and-the-neurosciences-institute-at-stan ford-university-school-of-medicine/ SUMMARY:Dr. Tal Iram - Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences an d the Neurosciences Institute at Stanford University School of Medicine. [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Tal Iram\n Affilia tion: \n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n Oligodendrocyte plasticity in cognitive aging and neurodegeneration\n\nAbstract\n\nRecent understanding of how the systemic environment shapes the brain throughout life has led to numerous intervention strategies to slow brain aging. Cerebrospinal flu id (CSF) makes up the immediate environment of brain cells\, providing the m with nourishing compounds. We discovered that infusing young CSF directl y into aged brains improves memory function. Unbiased transcriptome analys is of the hippocampus identified oligodendrocytes to be most responsive to this rejuvenated CSF environment. We further showed that young CSF boosts oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) proliferation and differentiation i n the aged hippocampus and in primary OPC cultures. Using SLAMseq to metab olically label nascent mRNA\, we identified serum response factor (SRF)\, a transcription factor that drives actin cytoskeleton rearrangement\, as a mediator of OPC proliferation following exposure to young CSF. With age\, SRF expression decreases in hippocampal OPCs\, and the pathway is induced by acute injection with young CSF. We screened for potential SRF activato rs in CSF and found that fibroblast growth factor 17 (Fgf17) infusion is s ufficient to induce OPC proliferation and long-term memory consolidation i n aged mice while Fgf17 blockade impairs cognition in young mice. These fi ndings demonstrate the rejuvenating power of young CSF and identify Fgf17 as a key target to restore oligodendrocyte function in the aging brain.\n\ n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1156@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230118T123000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230118T143000 DTSTAMP:20230112T101658Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/jacobs-graduate-research-da y/ SUMMARY:Jacobs Graduate Research Day [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Churchill Building | Wednesday \n Affiliation: \n Ho st:\n Posters that were chosen as excellent in the departmental research d ays\, will be presented by the graduate students.\n\nA panel of judges wil l choose the winning posters. A “Crowd Favorite” poster will be chosen by the participants\n\ngood luck to the Faculty of Biology representives:  \n\n Nitsan Yehi Shalom (Schuster Lab)\n Akmaral Rakhymzhanova (Ron-Ha rel Lab)\n Inbar Arman (Reiter Lab) \n LOCATION:Churchill Building | Wednesday END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1151@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230116T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230116T140000 DTSTAMP:20230109T131549Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/dr-tanita-wein-department-o f-molecular-genetics-at-the-weizmann-institute-of-science/ SUMMARY:Dr. Tanita Wein -Department of Molecular Genetics at the Weizmann I nstitute of Science [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Tanita Wein\n Affi liation: \n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n Understanding the ancient evolution and function of innate immunity\n\nThe human innate immune syste m has long been considered the result of extensive evolutionary innovation s in metazoans. However\, this dogma has now been challenged. Recent studi es show that essential components of the cell-autonomous innate immune sy stem have ancient evolutionary roots in prokaryotic defense systems that p rotect bacteria from phages. Nonetheless\, while we know that certain comp onents of the innate immune response were inherited from prokaryotes\, a l arge portion of functional and mechanistic diversity across the tree of l ife remains so far uncharted territory. Therefore\, in my future research\ , I will explore the evolutionary links between prokaryotic and eukaryotic immune systems. For this\, I aim to focus on evolutionary transitions su ch as lifestyle changes in bacteria and basal eukaryotes that have the pot ential to elucidate the evolutionary history and function of central innat e immune components. Utilizing a bottom-up approach harnessing the diversi ty of microbes will lead to the discovery of novel concepts\, functions a nd processes in immunity across all domains of life including plants and a nimals.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1148@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230111T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230111T140000 DTSTAMP:20221229T073424Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-ilana- alona-goor/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Ilana (Alona) Goor [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/99170022526 Ilana (Alona) Goor\n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Yoram Reiter\n Study of Antigen Presentation and Antigen-Specific Immunom odulation in Multiple Sclerosis by T cell Receptor-mimic Antibodies\nDurin g autoimmune diseases\, like Multiple Sclerosis (MS)\, the immune system i s downregulated in a non-specific manner in order to reduce inflammation. Consequently\, targeting and specifically inhibiting autoreactive T cells is highly desirable as a treatment for autoimmune disease. We hypothesize that during the inflammatory process in MS\, APCs can present several myel in derived epitopes simultaneously and consequently activate a variety of autoreactive T cells. Accordingly\, targeting one of these epitopes with T cell receptor- mimic (TCRm) antibody (Ab) could result in the elimination of specific APCs\, thus prevent epitope spreading\, decrease myelin-speci fic T cells` activation\, affect differentiated T cell p\nopulations and m ost importantly decrease disease exacerbation. To this end\, we have isola ted and characterized two TCRm Abs directed against MOG 35-55/ HLA-DR2 epi topes. These TCRm Abs can obtain their function via two mechanisms of acti on: (i) block peptide-MHC interactions between pathogenic T cells and APCs \, and (ii) specifically eliminate APCs presenting MS-associated autoantig ens by ADCC or CDC. The TCRm Abs exhibit specific inhibition of T cell pro liferation in vitro and ex vivo. Moreover\, the TCRm Abs were able to medi ate specific killing of MOG- presenting APCs. According to these data\, an tigen-specific TCRm Abs are valuable molecules that may facilitate importa nt studies related to antigen presentation in autoimmunity and contribute to the development of innovative therapeutic and diagnostic agents for tre ating autoimmune disorders such as MS. LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /99170022526 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1150@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230109T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230109T140000 DTSTAMP:20230103T071116Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/dr-li-av-segev-zarko-depart ment-of-microbiology-and-immunology-at-stanford-university-school-of-medic ine/ SUMMARY:Dr. Li-av Segev Zarko -Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine. [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faculty Of Biology Auditorium Dr. Li-av Segev Zarko \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n How One Eukaryotic Cell Invades Another: Dissecting Invasion by Apicomplexa\nThe phylum Apico mplexa includes several of the most prevalent and important human eukaryot ic\npathogens\, such as Plasmodium spp.\, which causes malaria\, and Toxop lasma gondii\, which causes toxoplasmosis.\nHost cell invasion by these ob ligatory intracellular parasites is a remarkable and active process that\n depends on protein injection into the host cell and involves the coordinat ed action of apical organelles and\ncytoskeletal components. By coupling m olecular tools with state-of-the-art imaging techniques\, including\ncryog enic-electron microscopy\, we revealed striking conservation and differenc es in the invasion machinery\nused by Toxoplasma and Plasmodium. We identi fied mechanistic processes that promote protein secretion\nand resolved st ructural elements in the invasion machinery at subnanometer resolution\, p roviding new information\non how these important parasites accomplish the essential step of invasion.\n\n \;\n\n \; LOCATION:Faculty Of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1149@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230102T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20230102T140000 DTSTAMP:20221229T073558Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/faculty-seminar-dr-anat-kah an/ SUMMARY:faculty seminar -Dr. Anat Kahan [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Dr. Anat Kahan \n Affiliation: De partment of Biology and Biology Engineering at the California Institute of Technology\n Host:Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n Estrous cycle and Egg re lease resets inspired by neurodynamics in the circadian pacemaker\n\n  \;\n\nJet lag and shift work disrupt the menstrual cycle and decrease fert ility. The circadian pacemaker\, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)\, is kn own to modulate ovulation\, but the mechanism is unclear. My work explores this connection by tracking the dynamics of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-expressing neurons in the SCN in freely-behaving mice. We show that SCNVIP activity is time-of-day- and sex-dependent\, and estrous-state-dep endent in the late afternoon\, gating downstream activation of GnRH neuron s. Consistent with a light-responsive switch\, afternoon light\, as well a s specific activation of SCNVIP neurons\, rescues estrous cycle regularity and egg release in animals in limited-light conditions. Our results revea l the dynamic mechanism by which SCNVIP neurons mediate light responses to regulate estrous states and demonstrate light-induced fertility rescue\, a finding with potential therapeutic implications. LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1146@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221229T203000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221229T213000 DTSTAMP:20221222T131510Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/clear-the-smoke-a-lecture-o n-cannabis-the-endocannabinoid-system-and-cancer/ SUMMARY:"Clear the smoke’’ a lecture on cannabis\, the endocannabinoid system and cancer [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Climbing wall - "Performance Rock"\, 32 Hanamal St.\, Lower City\, Haifa Associate Prof. Dedi Meiri\n Affiliation: Faculty of Biology\, Technion\n Host:\n The third lecture in the "Science Talk on the Bar" series of the Faculty of Biology\nAbout:\n• Is cannabis the antibi otics of the 21st century?\n• How many patients in Israel and around the world use cannabis as a medicine and for which indications?\n• How will you find the cannabis strain best suited for you and in what way does thi s wonderful plant open a bridge between modern and traditional medicine?\n \nDid you think that with the medical cannabis revolution in the world\, t he world of scientific research would know everything there is to know abo ut the plant?\nWell as it turns out the answer is no! The field of medical cannabis research and the use of the plant as a medicine is still in its infancy.\nThere are dozens of different cannabis strains\, and sometimes e ven a tiny change in the composition of the plant can cause your body to r eact differently and affect the symptoms of the disease in an entirely dif ferent way.\n\nOver one hundred and twenty thousand patients in Israel are prescribed medical cannabis provided by the Ministry of Health.\nThe numb er of patients in the world consuming cannabis as a medicine is estimated at tens to hundreds of millions for diverse reasons such as pain relief\, epilepsy\, Parkinson's\, post-traumatic stress disorder\, and more. But wh at do these patients actually get? What is cannabis? And what are the acti ve ingredients?\nApparently\, very little research in the world tries to a nswer these questions and the knowledge in the field is very limited...\n\ nThe Meiri Lab in the Faculty of Biology is one of few in the world curren tly able to answer these questions. In the lecture\, we will explain what is cannabis\, what are the differences between the various types of plants \, what are the active ingredients\, and how and who today receives a pres cription and approval for the use of medical cannabis.\nThen we will tell you about some of the research conducted in our lab\, including the study of cannabis’s anti-cancer properties\, its anti-epileptic qualities\, an d more...\n\nAbout the lecturer: Professor Dedi Meiri of the Technion is a world-leading researcher in the field of medical cannabis. He happened to stumble on the plant as part of the anti-cancer research being conducted in his lab. “I am not a big fan of cannabis\,” he said in his TEDxTelA viv talk\, “but you can’t take it away from cancer patients\, autistic children\, and the many people it has improved their quality of life.”\ n\nLocation: Climbing wall - "Performance Rock"\, 32 Hanamal St.\, Lower C ity\, Haifa\n\nA special benefit for those coming to the lecture: "Free cl imbing" + 1+1 sale on "Malka" beer.\n\nEntry is free\, subject to pre-regi stration - please secure your place here in the form: https://forms.gle/5 QruPe97614V6gc4A LOCATION:Climbing wall - "Performance Rock"\, 32 Hanamal St.\, Lower City\, Haifa END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1147@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221228T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221228T140000 DTSTAMP:20221225T093632Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/phd-graduate-seminar-xiaohu i-li/ SUMMARY:PhD Graduate Seminar-Xiaohui Li [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://techn ion.zoom.us/j/95603525366 Xiaohui Li \n Affiliation: \n Host:Prof. Benjam in Podbilewicz\n \nArchaeal origins of gamete fusion\n\nSexual reproductio n consists of genome reduction by meiosis and subsequent gamete fusion. Fu sexins\, are a superfamily of structurally conserved proteins (fusogens) t hat mediate three types of exoplasmic membrane fusion events: eukaryotic g amete fusion\, somatic cell-cell fusion\, and entry of enveloped viruses t o host cells. Here\, we unveil a fourth family of fusexins in genomes of A rchaea and metagenomes from different environments. We provide structural\ , functional and evolutionary evidence indicating that these archaeal prot eins are cellular fusogens: First\, the crystal structure of a trimeric ar chaeal Fusexin1 reveals high similarity to eukaryotic fusexins and in part icular to gamete GCS1/HAP2 fusogens from plants and protists. Second\, ect opically expressed Fusexin1 can fuse mammalian cells\, and this process in volves the conserved fusion loop and the additional globular domain. Third \, genomic analyses indicate that archaeal fusexins are carried by integra ted mobile genetic elements\, suggesting potential roles in cell fusion an d gene exchange in archaea\, as well as different scenarios for the evolut ionary history of fusexins. We will also discuss work in progress to LOCATION:hybrid- in the Faculty Auditorium/ZOOM: https://technion.zoom.us/j /95603525366 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1145@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221226T130000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221226T130000 DTSTAMP:20221222T093039Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/a-twist-in-the-protein-fold ing-dogma/ SUMMARY:Prof. Alex Bronstein and Dr. Ailie Marx from the Faculty of Compute r Science at the Technion - "A twist in the protein folding dogma" [No Cat egories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Biology auditorium Prof. Alex Bronstein and Dr. Aili e Marx \n Affiliation: Faculty of Computer Science at the Technion\n Host: Prof. Benjamin Podbilewicz \n Abstract:\nThe fact that some amino acid ch ains fold alone into natively structured and fully functional proteins in solution\, has led to the commonly accepted “one sequence-one structure ” notion. However\, within the cell\, protein chains are not formed in i solation\, to fold alone once produced. Rather\, they are translated from genetic coding instructions (for which many versions exist to code a singl e amino acid sequence) and begin to fold before the chain has fully formed through a process known as co-translational folding. The effect of coding and co-translational folding mechanisms on the final protein structure ar e not well understood. There are no studies showing side-by-side structura l analysis of protein pairs having alternative synonymous coding. We are u sing the wealth of high-resolution protein structures available in the Pro tein Data Bank to computationally explore the association between genetic coding and local protein structure and pinpoint positions of alternate con formations in homologous proteins which cannot be readily explained by the amino acid sequence or protein environment\nBronstein lab: https://bron.c s.technion.ac.il/ LOCATION:Biology auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:1139@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221222T100000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20221222T150000 DTSTAMP:20221205T112751Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/en/seminars/arie-admon70-symposia/ SUMMARY:Arie Admon@70 Symposia [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Faulty of Biology Auditorium \n Affiliation: \n Host :\n Arie Admon@70 symposia – Celebrating Arie's 35 years of Science\n"My Life with Mass Spectrometers\, Proteomics\, and Immunopeptidomics”\n\nT hursday\, December 22\, 2022\; 10:00-15:00\nFaculty of Biology Auditorium\ , Technion-Israel Institute of Technology\n\n10:00-10:30 - Gathering\, cof fee\, and cakes\n10:30-10:40 - Opening Remarks\, Faculty Dean\, Yael Mande l Gutfreund\n10:40-10:50 – Introduction\, Yoram Reiter\n10:50-11:40– J on Yewdell\, Cellular Biology Section\, Laboratory of Viral Diseases\, NIA ID\, NIH\nDRiPs and SLiPs and Retirees! Oh My!\n11:40-12:10 – Aaron Ciec hanover\, Faculty of Medicine\, Technion\nNutritional control of proteasom e dynamics – implications to cancer therapy\n12:10-12:40 – Michal Bass ani-Sternberg\, Lausanne University Hospital\, The Center for Experimental Therapies\nThe tumor antigenic landscape associated with T cell infiltrat ion and immunoediting\n12:40-13:10 – Yifat Merbl\, Department of Systems Immunology\, Weizmann Institute of Science –\nIlluminating the dark mat ter of the immunopeptidome\n13:10-14:00 – Lunch\n14:00-14:30 – Yuval A dmon\, Head of the Haifa Bay Development Directorate and Deputy Head of th e National\nEconomic Council at The Prime Minister's Office.\nChanging the face of Haifa Bay - what is expected to happen?\nיובל אדמון\, ר אש המנהלת לפיתוח מפרץ חיפה וסגן ראש המוע צה הלאומית לכלכלה במשרד ראש הממשלה\nשינו י פני מפרץ חיפה- מה צפוי לקרות"\n14:30-15:00 – Ar ie Admon -\nDeciphering myth from reality in immunopeptidomics - mass spec trometry to the rescue. LOCATION:Faulty of Biology Auditorium END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:3@biology.technion.ac.il DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20210202T120000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Jerusalem:20210202T143000 DTSTAMP:20210113T091408Z URL:https://biology.technion.ac.il/seminars/lorem-ipsum-is-simply-dummy-te xt-of-the-printing/ SUMMARY:Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing [No Categories] DESCRIPTION:Location: Agnon Yehuda\n Affiliation: \n Host:\n Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.\nLorem Ipsu m has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s\, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type s pecimen book. It has survived not only five centuries\, but also the leap into electronic typesetting\, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popu larised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages\, and more recently with desktop publishing software like A ldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.\nLorem Ipsum is simply d ummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.\nLorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s\, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen boo k. It has survived not only five centuries\, but also the leap into electr onic typesetting\, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passa ges\, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMa ker including versions of Lorem Ipsum. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Asia/Jerusalem X-LIC-LOCATION:Asia/Jerusalem BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20201025T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:IST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20210326T030000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:IDT END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20211031T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:IST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20220325T030000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:IDT END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20221030T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:IST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20230324T030000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:IDT END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20231029T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:IST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20240329T030000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:IDT END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20241027T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:IST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20250328T030000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:IDT END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20251026T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:IST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20260327T030000 TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:IDT END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE END:VCALENDAR