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Dark Skin, Blond Hair

Surprise in the Solomon Islands

By Khadijah I. Makky, Audra A. Kramer

Dark Skin, Blond Hair


 

Abstract

This interrupted case is based on a genome wide association study (GWAS) that identified the genetic variation causing some inhabitants of the Solomon Islands to have blond hair. The case illustrates the connection between genotype and phenotype, and an application of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The narrative focusses on John and his new roommate, Peter, from the Solomon Islands who happens to have dark skin and blond hair. Using thought-provoking questions students learn about the genetics and the biochemistry of the hair color trait and how a single genetic variation can influence phenotype. Is migration or mutation involved?  Upon completion of the activity students will know the source of the genetic variation that causes the blond hair phenomenon in the Solomon Islands and if it has any European origins. The case was written for an upper-level genetics course, but could also be adapted for introductory biology or for a genetics course for non-majors. An optional PowerPoint presentation with clicker questions is available to paid subscribed instructors (see Supplemental Materials).

   

Date Posted

12/27/2016

Overview

Objectives

  • Understand the connection between genotype and phenotype, and that single genetic mutation in a coding gene can affect the function of the protein product and have a significant effect on the resulting phenotype (trait).
  • Understand that genetic mutation is part of evolution and can lead to variation in human traits.
  • Avoid the misconception that mutations always lead to diseases.
  • Apply Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium to calculate allele frequencies and genotype frequencies.
  • Learn how allele frequencies can help us answer some genetic questions regarding human traits.
  • Examine the effect of population size on allele frequency and trait frequency.

Keywords

polygenic traits; genotype-phenotype; Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; HWE; population genetics; blond hair trait, blonde; blond; dark skin; TYRP1; GWAS; Solomon Islands

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Genetics / Heredity

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF, PowerPoint

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Clicker, Interrupted

 

 

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