Polygenic Adaptation - Lecture 4

Explore the complexities of polygenic adaptation in this lecture by Nick Barton, part of a comprehensive program on theoretical and empirical approaches to understanding polygenic adaptation. Delve into the central problem of biological evolution: understanding phenotypic variation in terms of underlying genetic variation. Examine recent insights into the genetic architecture of phenotypic traits, including crop yield, human height, and complex diseases. Investigate the integration of two seemingly disparate views of adaptive dynamics: adaptation via large changes at few genetic loci and infinitesimal changes at many loci. Learn about extending these concepts to include other modes of adaptation and how to quantitatively describe various scenarios, relating them to empirical data. This 1 hour 45 minute lecture is part of a broader program featuring pedagogical lectures, research seminars, and dedicated tutorial and discussion sessions, aimed at fostering an inclusive and diverse environment for scientific discourse.