Dissertation Research: The Developmental basis of Convergent Evolution

这项研究调查了果蝇属果蝇色素差异的遗传基础。这是将果蝇的色素沉积发展为进化元模型的努力的一部分。已建立的元模型对于阐明进化中的任何一般规则都是必要的。他们测试某些特征和基因网络是否以可复制的方式进化。此前，一个物种对中涉及颜色模式进化的区域已经确定，基因正在确定过程中。这笔拨款将通过资助对另一个物种对中涉及色素差异的染色体区域的分析来改进这篇论文。这一比较部分对于形成对该系统中收敛进化动力学的公正理解是不可或缺的。元模型正在几个系统中活跃地开发，例如刺鱼和老鼠。所有这些努力都没有考虑到网络结构在塑造平行进化动力方面的影响。在果蝇体内，这是可能的，因为该途径中的大多数(尽管不是全部)基因已经被表征。此外，除了其科学价值外，这项研究还创造了研究培训的机会，并纳入了代表人数不足的群体的个人。该实验室的本科生继续进入研究生院学习，并参加了地方和国家的研究研讨会。这项研究也被用来开发促进参与式学习和改善生物教育的教案。

This research investigates the genetic basis of pigmentation differences in fruit flies of the genus Drosophila. It is a part of an effort to develop Drosophila pigmentation as an evolutionary metamodel. Established metamodels are necessary for the elucidation of any general rules in evolution. They test whether certain traits and gene networks evolve in a reproducible fashion. Previously the regions involved in color pattern evolution in one species pair were identified, and the genes are in the process of being characterized. This grant will improve this dissertation through funding an analysis of the chromosomal regions involved in pigmentation differences in an additional species pair. This comparative component will be integral to the formation of an unbiased understanding of the dynamics of convergent evolution in this system.Metamodels are being actively developed in several systems, such as sticklebacks and mice. None of these endeavors account for the effect of network structure in shaping the dynamics of parallel evolution. Within Drosophila this is possible as most, though not all, genes in the pathway have been characterized. Furthermore--in addition to its scientific merit--this research generates opportunities for training in research and includes individuals from underrepresented groups. Undergraduates from this lab have continued on to graduate school and participated in local and national research symposia. This research is also being used to develop to develop lesson plans that promote engaged learning and improve biology education.