DISSERTATION RESEARCH: An investigation of pleiotropy as an adaptive constraint using flower color change in Phlox

许多遗传变化会影响几个不同的性状，同一个基因座可以通过对不同性状的影响实现收益和成本。本研究结合分子遗传学和田间实验技术，调查在得克萨斯州的野花福禄考的花色多态性的遗传和生态基础。大多数P. drummondii都有蓝色的花，这是由花青素的产生引起的，花青素是由植物中常见的生化途径产生的。 花青素，也产生于整个植物的营养组织，被认为具有其他作用，包括防御食草动物和保护免受紫外线伤害。白花牡丹缺乏花青素。本研究将确定白色花色的遗传基础，并调查与花色以外的性状相关的花青素水平的环境效应。这项研究对理解新的适应和维护生物多样性具有重要意义。 该项目将为研究生CoPI以及CoPI将指导和培训的本科生和高中生提供多样化的基于研究的培训

Many genetic changes affect several different traits, and the same locus can have both benefits and costs, realized through its effects on different traits. This study combines molecular genetic and field experimental techniques to investigate the genetic and ecological basis of a flower color polymorphism in the Texas wildflower Phlox drummondii. Most P. drummondii have blue flowers caused by the production of anthocyanins, which are produced by a biochemical pathway that is common in plants. Anthocyanins, which are also produced throughout plants' vegetative tissue, are believed to have other effects, including defense against herbivores and protection from UV damage. White-flowered P. drummondii lack anthocyanin. This study will determine the genetic basis of the white flower color and investigate the environmental effects of anthocyanin levels that are related to traits other than flower color. This study has implications for understanding novel adaptation and the maintenance of biodiversity. The project will provide diverse research-based training for the graduate student CoPI and for undergraduate and high school students that the CoPI will mentor and train