Dr. Ivane R. Pedrosa-Gerasmio, Visiting Associate Professor from MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology, Returns to MECOH Lab for a LaMer-approved eDNA Project

We are thrilled to welcome back Dr. Ivane R. Pedrosa-Gerasmio from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, who is leading a LaMer-approved project on the non-invasive detection of horseshoe crabs in the waters of Palawan and Tawi-Tawi using environmental DNA (eDNA). During her initial visit from October 16 to 25, 2023, Dr. Gerasmio laid the groundwork for potential collaborations and received specialized training in eDNA analysis and double digest restriction-site associated DNA (ddRAD) sequencing.

MiSeq reagent kit for sequencing the prepared libraries

Real-time PCR for the quantification of eDNA library

Gel size selection for purification and recovery of amplicons.

Checking the results of the second PCR run using a gel documentation system

Building on that foundation, Dr. Gerasmio returned this year for a month-long research visit, from September 19 to October 18, 2024. She focused on the intricate process of preparing libraries and sequencing eDNA samples collected from various regions across the Philippines, working closely with Dan Joseph Logronio, a PhD student specializing in eDNA metabarcoding at the MECOH Laboratory, Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University.

While in Japan, Dr. Gerasmio also had the privilege of attending two prestigious symposiums that coincided with her stay: the JSPS Core-to-Core Program B. Asia-Africa Science Platforms International Symposium on One Health Approaches to Chemical Risk Management in Ehime, from September 30 to October 1, 2024, and the LaMer Symposium on Metabolomics and Advanced Analytical Technologies in the Study of Insects, Vector-Borne Diseases, and Biological Control on October 2, 2024. These experiences not only deepened her expertise but also helped her build valuable connections within the international research community.

Dr. Ivane P. Gerasmio with Dr. Kozo Watanabe and fellow participants from MSU-IIT, Dr. Hernando Bacosa and Rodolfo A. Romarate II, a PhD Student.

“Collaboration is the key to unlocking new insights and addressing the environmental challenges we face today. I am grateful for the opportunities provided by LaMer, the JSPS Core-to-Core Program, and Dr. Kozo Watanabe to contribute to this vital research and to learn from experts in the field.”

- Dr. Ivane P. Gerasmio

We are excited about future collaborative endeavors and look forward to welcoming Dr. Ivane back again.