Class Population Genetics

Population genetics is a subfield of genetics that deals with genetic differences within and between populations, adressing the evolutionary factors that explain this variation. Studies the implications of random crossings for one locus or multiple loci and illustrates the effects of mutations, migrations, natural selection and the consequences of genetic drift. It reinforces the importance of quantitative genetics and coalescence theory and its implications for the reconstruction of phylogenies and analysis of molecular markers used to detect QTLs.

It has direct practical applications in terms of, for instance, the management of living resources, or the definition of protected areas. It has a strong theoretical-practical component, as it is based on molecular biology data and uses mathematical models that allow testing concrete hypotheses.

Content:

1. Introduction to population genetics:
   1. Population genetics and allelic frequency;
   2. Main contributions to allelic frequency alteration;
   3. Applications of the study of population genetics;
   4. Techniques for studying genetic variation.
2. Microevolution:
   1. Hardy-Weinberg Principle;
   2. Theory of genetic drift;
   3. Gene flow and population divisions;
   4. Mutations;
   5. Natural selection.
3. Multiple genes and quantitative genetics:
   1. Evolution at 2 loci;
   2. Quantitative genetics.

Include innovative methodologies to support the teaching-learning process used

• Allendorf FW; LuikartG. 2007. Conservation and the Genetics of populations. 1st edition, Blackwell Publishing.
• Hartl, D.L., Clark, A.G. (1997). Principles of populationgenetics. 3 Ed. SinauerAssociates Inc.
• Maynard-Smith, J. (2002). Evolutionary genetics. 2 Ed. Oxford UniversityPress.