Genomics and Molecular Evolution
Code
10717
Academic unit
Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia
Department
Departamento de Ciências da Vida
Credits
3.0
Teacher in charge
José Paulo Nunes de Sousa Sampaio
Weekly hours
4
Total hours
38
Teaching language
Português
Objectives
Understand the basic mechanisms of molecular evolution. Understand how to search and retrieve sequence data from public databases. Know the basic aspects of Next Generation Sequencing technologies and the main steps involved in genome assembly and in genome analyses for population, comparative and functional genomics.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of molecular genetics and evolution.
Subject matter
1. Biological evolution – definitions and mechanisms. The neutral theory of molecular evolution.
2. Alteration of allelic frequencies through time. Models of nucleotide substitution. Analysis of DNA polymorphisms. The coalescent theory.
3. Evolution at a molecular scale: adaptation, balancing selection and molecular clocks.
4. Genome evolution and organization. Gene duplication and genome duplication. Genome duplication in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
5. Comparative and functional genomics. Second generation genome sequencing technologies identification and discovery of genes and of regulatory sequences through genome comparison. Identification of horizontal gene transfer events.
Bibliography
Vandamme, AM. 2009. Basic concepts of molecular evolution. In “The Phylogenetic Handbook”, Cambridge Univ Press
Descent with modification (Reading the story of DNA, L Bromham, 2008)
Teaching method
A limited number of lectures is scheduled. Autonomous study is encouraged. The recommended bibliography has to be studied in advance. Discussion sessions are included. Exercises will be carried out in practical sessions using personal computers and a dedicated server.
Evaluation method
Two written and individual tests on the 4th and 7th weeks of the course are planned. No minimal grades are defined. For final approval a minimal grade of 10 (on a 0 to 20 system) has to be obtained.