Topic 3 - Learning Outcomes

Topic 3.1 DNA sequence change and gene function Describe and explain the different potential consequences of DNA sequence alteration on gene function. Explain, with reference to examples, the concepts of pleiotropy, polygenic variation and epistasis.

Topic 3.2 Origins of Mutation Learning outcomes Describe the molecular origins of mutations. Explain how DNA replication errors occur and how they are corrected. Compare and describe the main processes of repair of DNA damage. Explain how genetic recombination during meiosis contributes to variation. Provide a simple account of the long-term experiment conducted by Richard Lenski and colleagues to study molecular evolution in action in Escherichia coli, and explain the advantages that E. coli offers as a model organism for such a study.

Topic 3.3 Case Studies in Analysing Variation Learning outcomes Describe, with examples, strategies by which the molecular basis for phenotypic variation may be understood. Explain the use of genetic mapping for cases where one, or more than one, gene contribute(s) to a phenotype. Outline, with examples, how an understanding of a phenotype in one species assists in the understanding of similar phenotypes in other species

Topic 3.4 - Case Study: Investigating genetic variation in Deer Mice Learning outcomes Explain, using an example, how changes in genes give rise to changes in phenotype, resulting in adaptation. Outline how QTL analysis and the candidate gene approach have been applied to investigate variation in coat colour in deer mice. Describe how knowledge of the underlying genetics of a trait can provide information about the possible evolution of that trait in different populations or species. Describe how the genetics of behaviour can be studied using the concept of the extended phenotype.