Detection of Functional Genes in the Antarctic Peninsula Using Shotgun Metagenomic Methods

Antarctica is one of the world's most extreme ecosystems due to its low temperatures, high UV radiation, limited food resources, and glacial effects. Microorganisms that can adapt to these environmental stressors harbor enzymes and genetic building blocks with high biotechnological and industrial potential. In this project, DNA isolated from environmental samples obtained from the Antarctic Peninsula will be analyzed using both short-read and long-read sequencing technologies. In this context, the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform will be preferred for high-accuracy data production with its short-read depth, while the Oxford Nanopore platform will be used to increase the integrity of metagenomic data and more effectively identify complex gene regions thanks to its long-read capacity. Furthermore, the database to be created within the scope of the project will provide a unique contribution to Türkiye's scientific activities in Antarctica and will increase the knowledge base regarding polar microbial biodiversity.