DISSERTATION RESEARCH: Outcrossing in a Self-Fertilizing Species, Adding the Caenorhabditis elegans Tool-Kit to the Outcrossing-Selfing Paradigm

自交受精被认为是进化的死胡同，因为它侵蚀了遗传变异，导致近亲繁殖的萧条。然而，偶尔的遗传交换可能会减轻与永久自交受精相关的适应性后果，从而使主要自交受精的种群能够长期生存。本研究将利用模型线虫秀丽隐杆线虫，利用包含改变其交配系统动态的突变的种群的实验进化来测试这一理论。具体而言，将在突变率增加和适应新致病环境的条件下评估永久自交受精的稳健性和遗传交换的意义。该项目将评估在适应和遗传保存的背景下个体间基因交换的重要性。这些条件非常重要，对农业、自然保护和流行病学领域都有影响。此外，该项目将为有抱负的科学家和教育家提供宝贵的科学培训和经验，并通过直接参与科学过程为本科生研究人员提供多种指导机会。

Self-fertilization is believed to be an evolutionary dead-end because it erodes genetic variation and leads to inbreeding depression. However, occasional genetic exchange may alleviate the fitness consequences associated with perpetual self-fertilization, thus enabling the long-term survival of primarily self-fertilizing populations. This study will utilize the model nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, to test this theory using the experimental evolution of populations containing mutations that alter their mating system dynamics. Specifically, the robustness of perpetual self-fertilization and the significance of genetic exchange will be evaluated under conditions of increased mutation rate and adaptation to novel pathogenic environments. This project will evaluate the importance of genetic exchange between individuals within the context of adaptation and genetic preservation. These conditions are broadly important and have impacts on the fields of agriculture, conservation, and epidemiology. In addition, the project will provide valuable scientific training and experience for an aspiring scientist and educator and offer multiple opportunities for the mentorship of undergraduate researchers through direct participation in the scientific process.