Dissertation Research: The Developmental basis of Convergent Evolution

本研究探讨果蝇属果蝇色素差异的遗传基础。 这是将果蝇色素沉着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重复的方式进化。 以前，在一个物种对中参与颜色模式进化的区域被确定，基因正在被表征的过程中。这项资助将通过资助一个额外物种对中涉及色素沉着差异的染色体区域的分析来改进本论文。 这种比较的组成部分将是不可或缺的形成一个公正的理解，在这个系统中的趋同进化的动力学。元模型正在积极开发的几个系统，如刺鱼和小鼠。这些努力都没有解释网络结构在塑造平行进化动力学中的作用。在果蝇中，这是可能的，因为大多数（尽管不是全部）通路中的基因已经被表征。此外，除了其科学价值外，这项研究还创造了研究培训机会，并包括来自代表性不足群体的个人。 该实验室的本科生继续攻读研究生，并参加了当地和国家的研究研讨会。 这项研究也被用来制定课程计划，促进参与式学习和改善生物教育。

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.