Collaborative Research: A Simulation Approach To The Evolution of The G-Matrix

在这个项目中，三位研究者将合作进行g矩阵稳定性和进化的计算机模拟研究。g矩阵是数量性状间遗传变异和协方差模式的统计描述。它是受许多基因影响的性状进化理论模型中遗传的中心概念。许多重要的特征都属于这一类（例如，体型、智力、对某些疾病的易感性）。因此，g矩阵的稳定性和演化是重要的问题，因为它们影响我们预测这些特征如何演化的能力。其中一个目标是确定随机变化的选择压力如何影响g矩阵的稳定性。另一个目的是确定遗传结构的细节（突变、连锁、显性和上位性）如何影响g矩阵的稳定性和进化。总体目标是确定g矩阵可能稳定或不稳定的条件，重点是可能在自然界中占上风的选择制度。在这个项目的过程中，我们将培养研究生和博士后，将他们纳入我们的计划和写作环节。我们还将建立一个网站，使学生、教师和研究人员能够模拟g矩阵的波动和进化。

In this project, three investigators will collaborate on computer simulation studies of G-matrix stability and evolution. The G-matrix is a statistical description of ghe pattern of genetic variances and covariances among quantitative traits. It is the central concept of inheritance in theoretical models for the evolution of characters that are affected by many genes. Many important characters are in this category (e.g., body size, intelligence, susceptibility to some kinds of disease). Consequently the stability and evolution of the G-matrix are important issues because they affect our ability to predict how such characteristics evolve. One aim is to determine how randomly varying selective pressures affect G-matrix stability. Another aim is to determine how details of genetic architecture (mutation, linkage, dominance, and epistasis) affect both the stability and evolution of the G-matrix. The overarching goal is to determine the conditions under which the G-matrix is likely to be stable or unstable, with a focus on selection regimes that are likely to prevail in nature. In the course of this project we will train graduate and postdoctoral students by including them in our planning and writing sessions. We will also build a website that will enable students, teachers and researchers to run simulations of G-matrix fluctuation and evolution.