*****Population Genetics

Question 1

Define population genetics

Answer 1

distribution of genetic variation in populations and how the frequencies of genes and genotypes are maintained or change

Question 2

Contrast population genetics to typical models

Answer 2

Whereas the typical physician may encounter a SINGLE patient with a SINGLE genetic condition due to a SINGLE gene mutation (one extreme), the population genetics paradigm considers MULTIPLE patients (i.e. populations) and the VARIOUS genetic mutation(s) and VARIANT(S) within those populations.

Question 3

Hardy-Weinberg assumptions

Answer 3

1) the population is large (i.e., there is no genetic drift);
2) there is no gene flow between populations, from migration or transfer of gametes;
3) mutations are negligible;
4) individuals are mating randomly; and
5) natural selection is not operating on the population.