Darwin Research

The Darwin Research programme is focussed on developing marine organisms in Pembrokeshire, and around the Welsh coast, as a model for monitoring the effects of climate change, global warming and environmental changes on the marine ecosystem. Milford Haven estuary has been selected as one of the best ecosystems in Europe to achieve this. A further aim is seek out marine organisms that have potential applications in biology and medicine, either as model systems for investigating physiological and pathological mechanisms, or as a source of new materials, such as pharmaceuticals. These would have long term economic potential, in line with the pioneering work of Professor Campbell on bioluminescence.

Initially a laboratory was set up by Professor Campbell at the Welston Court Science Centre, and then moved to Pembrokeshire College, set up by Valerie Morse. She has now moved this to a facility near the quayside at Milford Haven. Boards have been made to collect marine animals from 10-20 feet down, for further study. The initial focus has been bioluminescence, particularly in coelenterates such as Obelia. Several good sites have been identified for monitoring the bioluminescence and fluorescence of these animals. Valerie Morse is registered as our first PhD student with Cardiff University, with Professor Campbell and Dr Ken Wann as supervisors. Several novel findings have already been made, including the value of using cutting edge technologies such as DNA and fluorescence as a crucial addition to conventional taxonomy in identifying definitively particular species. A culture system is being developed to answer one of the key questions about the luminous animals – what is the source of the substance that produces their light?

Four cutting edge technologies have been set up:

1. DNA gel electrophoresis with potential for PCR amplification
2. Fluorescence microscopy
3. Chemiluminescence detection and analysis
4. Bioluminescence imaging and software analysis

A fascinating discovery is that the location of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) in Obelia is a very good indicator for species identification. Many mistakes have been made previously in the literature and Pembrokeshire databases, which have not had access to this technology. A further exciting application of this bioluminescence has been to develop it as a model for the evolution of enzymes, a study that quite surprisingly is leading to a new clinical test in managing lactose and food intolerance, and potentially diabetes. A major aim now is to develop quantification of the bioluminescence and fluorescence of Obelia as a monitor for the long term effects of climate change and global warming on the marine ecosystem.

In 2002/3 the Darwin Centre commissioned a feasibility study to investigate the possibility of establishing a centre for marine science research and education with sabbatical facilities for visiting scientists in Pembrokeshire. The result was a Ten Year Development plan to enable the Darwin Centre to work towards this aim.

Since 2005 The Darwin Experience (which is the educational and public engagement arm of the Darwin Centre) has been developing an educational programme for schools and the community. The programme is sponsored by Dragon LNG, Waterston. During the 5 years Dragon LNG have contributed £250,000.00 to education in Pembrokeshire with a commitment to raise funding to £69,500.00 per annum. The Darwin Experience is pressing forward with innovative curriculum based activities through cutting edge science and sustainability issues. The programme is recognised by the local education authority as well as Her Majesties Inspectors of Schools. Recent inspections showing evidence that collaboration with the Darwin Experience can factor in attaining grade one results in science.

The Research, Educational and Engagement elements of the Darwin Centre work in harmony to open access to top class science to everyone.

Anthony K Campbell, Professor, School of Pharmacy, Cardiff University and Scientific Director of the Darwin Centre.

Marten Lewis, Manager of the Darwin Centre

Valerie Morse, Research Officer of the Darwin Centre