SubsidieMeestersUnderstanding the evolution of continuous genomes
This project aims to develop a new framework for population genomics by analyzing genetic variation across linear genomes to enhance understanding of selection and population structure.
Projectdetails
Introduction
An organism's phenotype depends on a multitude of genetic variants, spread over a linear genome. This is widely understood, and yet in practice, has hardly been incorporated into population genetic analysis. Recent developments in theory, computation, and sequencing technology now make it possible to obtain and analyze whole haploid genomes on a large scale.
Project Objectives
This proposal is to develop and apply a theoretical analysis of genetic variation that is spread over continuous linear genomes. Theory and methods will be developed in close interaction with empirical data from:
- Artificial selection experiments
- An intensely studied hybrid zone in Antirrhinum
For both, we have a known pedigree and phased whole-genome sequence.
Methodology
Population structure will be analyzed by:
- Following blocks of genome through pedigrees
- Analyzing across two-dimensional landscapes
Selection on discrete loci will be analyzed by:
- Finding its effect on surrounding haplotypes
- Analyzing how favored alleles become disentangled from heterogeneous backgrounds
- Observing how haplotype blocks flow past selected clines
Modeling Contributions
The contribution of variants that are spread across the genome to:
- Genome-wide association studies (GWA)
- Selection response
- Hybrid zones
will be modeled. The overall effect of inherited fitness variance on haplotype structure will be determined.
Impact
This work will establish a new framework for population genomics that goes beyond the current focus on individual loci. It will help bridge the distinct communities within genomics, quantitative genetics, and population genetics, which currently tackle these problems largely in isolation.
Conclusion
The project will develop better tools for inferring selection and population structure from DNA sequence data. More fundamentally, it will give us a deeper understanding of how the abundant variation that is carried on linear genomes is shaped by evolution.
Financiële details & Tijdlijn
Financiële details
| Subsidiebedrag | € 2.499.851 |
| Totale projectbegroting | € 2.499.851 |
Tijdlijn
| Startdatum | 1-9-2022 |
| Einddatum | 31-8-2027 |
| Subsidiejaar | 2022 |
Partners & Locaties
Projectpartners
- INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AUSTRIApenvoerder
Land(en)
Vergelijkbare projecten binnen European Research Council
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|---|---|---|---|---|
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Evolution of the genetic architecture of quantitative traits
This project aims to develop novel statistical methods to infer the genetic architecture of quantitative traits in wild populations, enhancing predictions of adaptation and phenotype from genomic data.
Exploring natural selection due to the Black Death and continuous human population genetic structure
This project aims to sequence 500 Black Death victims' genomes to understand genetic mixing and natural selection from infectious diseases, enhancing insights into European population structure and mortality genetics.
Inferring hominin population history through space and time using introgressed haplotypes
This project aims to develop advanced bioinformatic methods to analyze ancient DNA, revealing the history of human interbreeding and genetic factors influencing modern human survival.
Sequence-structure-function: uncovering how genetic variation at human centromere drives cellular phenotypes
This project aims to investigate centromere variation's mutagenic processes and functional impacts on genome stability and disease predisposition using a multidisciplinary approach.
EXamining how Past demography affects genetic LOad using Ancient DNA
This project aims to use ancient DNA sequencing to investigate evolutionary responses of threespine sticklebacks to ecological changes, addressing the mutational costs of natural selection amidst climate change.