SCC0271 - Introduction to Bioinformatics SCC-271 (2017)

Module 6: Natural Selection at the Molecular Level

Objective:

Work with Ka/Ks in some genomes.

Exercise 1:

Measure the KA/KS ratio for various mtDNA genes, comparing human with mouse, as well as with chimpanzee (make sure to use the correct genetic code). What can you conclude about natural selection?

Exercise 2:

Repeat the same exercise, this time using viral genomes (HIV or SARS, which is discussed in detail in Chapter 7). Compare the results with those obtained for mtDNA.