Lecture, chapter 11 - Mutation

Today we finished the chapter on mutation.

We discussed the types of mutation at the nucleotide sequence level (nucleotide substitutions, including missense, sense, nonsense, and silent mutations, insertions and deletions [indels] and allelic expansions [a.k.a. dynamic mutations]).

We then discussed the mechanism that cells have in place to precent DNA changes from becoming mutaitons (proofreading and repair mechanisms), the consequences of these systems failing, and the concept of genomic imprinting.

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Lab 08 - Population genetics

Today we did the population genetics lab

We introduced concepts that are key to the study of population genetics such as allele frequency, genotype frequency, gene pool, and Hardy-Weinberg principle (and equilibrium) and its assumptions. When discussing the Hardy-Weinberg principle we discussed the forces that can alter allele frequency in a population: genetic drift, selection (including sexual selection), mutation, and migration.

We then then proceeded to further study Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium by running simulations on PopCycle, a software package created by Jon Herron, from the University of Washington. PopCycle allowed us to see the conditions under which allele and genotype frequencies remain constant, and it also allow us to relax some of the assumptions. We introduced the effect of genetic drift and natural selection. Students were allowed to observe their effect on allele frequency

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Lecture, chapter 11 - Mutation

Today we talked about agents that produce mutations (mutagens), and we focused in radiation and chemicals.

When discussion radiation we mentioned the various sources of radiation to which we are exposed and the average amounts to which the U.S. population is exposed. We also mentioned some of the variations from the average depending on people's profession, location, or whether they are undergoing medical testing or treatment.

When discussing chemicals, we talked about the classification of chemicals according to the kind of change they induce on DNA. Specifically we discussed base analogs, intercalating agents, and chemicals that alter DNA.

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