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Complex Traits

Author(s): Nancy Moreno, PhD.
Complex Traits

 
© Sergey Taran

Domestic dogs exhibit immense variety in size, shape, coat color and texture, and behavior. This variability is a product of selective breeding by humans, conducted to yield desirable genetic changes or mutations. Today, there are more than 400 distinct breeds of dogs. Complex Traits contains lessons that allow students to investigate and learn about modern genetics, using the domestic dog as a model. The following activities are available:

  1. DogsA Model for Modern Genetics: What is a phylogenetic tree, and how does it help determine relationships between dogs and their closest relatives?

  2. Genotyping a Mixed Breed Dog: Can genetic testing uncover the origins of a mixed-breed dog? How are modern dog breeds related to one another?

  3. Mapping a Mutation: What is the genetic code, and what are the effects of small substitutions within the code?

  4. Genotypes and Phenotypes: What is the difference between genotype and phenotype, and what process can change a phenotype?

  5. Categorizing Hair Types in Dogs: How many genes regulate hair type in dogs?

  6. Genetic Testing and Designer Dogs: Do genetic mutations produce desirable characteristics or harmful effects in different dog breeds?

Though originally created for middle school students, activities in this guide may also be used with high school students.

Download: Complex Traits: Using Dogs as a Model for Genetics

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Funded by the following grant(s)

Science Education Partnership Award, NIH

Gene U: Inquiry-based Genomics Learning Experiences for Teachers and Students

Grant Number: 5$25OD011134