I am studying the effects of population history, size,
and structure on genome descent in isolated populations. Because of recent
interest in mapping genes for complex disease in small isolated founder
populations, using disequilibrium mapping approaches, this is relevant
to modern human genetics. I have demonstrated that population history,
size, and structure can have strong influences on the extent of disequilibrium
in such a population. It is therefore important to consider the details
of a populationís evolutionary history when deciding if it could be useful
for disequilibrium mapping. During the reporting period, I have written
a review paper on the importance of this topic and written and defended
my thesis proposal. |
