Program

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(1) Genomes are vulnerable to selfish genetic elements (SGEs), which enhance their own transmission relative to the rest of an individual’s genome but are neutral or harmful to the individual as a whole. As a result, genetic conflict occurs between SGEs and other genetic elements in the genome. There is growing evidence that SGEs, and the resulting genetic conflict, are an important motor for evolutionary change and innovation. The kinds of SGEs and their evolutionary consequences are described.  The dynamics of SGEs are also considered, including proposed “evolutionary functions” of SGEs. (2)   The genomics revolution provides opportunities to rapidly advance emerging model systems and to develop new ones to address novel questions in biology. Using the Nasonia genome project as an example, we explore how genomes open up new research directions and provide key resources for addressing basic questions in biology.  Nasonia is a genus of four species and genome sequence were obtained for three.  Genome sequences from these closely related species have been quickly exploited for studies in evolutionary and functional genetics.  In particular, research approaches are described for how genomic data is used for efficient cloning of quantitative trait loci (QTL) involved in species differences in development and behavior, and for discovery of hybrid incompatibility loci.