A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in the same area that can reproduce with each other to produce viable offspring. These collections of genes are called gene pools because these individuals can share genes and pass on gene combinations to the next generation. Only populations, not individuals, undergo the process of evolution. Evolution is a means of changing the frequency of genes within the gene pool; a single individual cannot evolve on its own. A prerequisite for evolution on any scale is genetic variation, or differences in the genetic composition of individuals in a population. Genetic variation and evolution in a population are determined by mutation, natural selection, genetic drift, genetic hitchhiking, and gene flow. Evolution manifests itself as changes in allele frequencies. This change can be positive or negative, depending on how it affects the survival and reproduction of the population. For example, adaptive evolution is beneficial to a population. On the other hand, an increase in deleterious alleles due to genetic drift can reduce the survival and reproductive success of a population.

Fig. 1. Population genomics resources available for four Drosophila species. (Casillas et al., 2017)

Population evolution service pipeline

We employ advanced techniques such as whole genome resequencing and genotyping by sequencing to obtain comprehensive genomic information of each subgroup within a natural population. Our analysis focuses on unraveling the genetic characteristics of biological groups by investigating population evolution. This knowledge serves as a theoretical foundation for genetic breeding of plants and animals, as well as the conservation of endangered species. Moreover, it provides essential biological evidence for studying changes in Earth's geology, ecology, climate, and historical human activities.

Our comprehensive population evolution analysis service encompasses a wide range of analytical components.

Technical Routes

CD Genomics population evolution solution

Sample Requirements

• Sample Selection: We require samples from different subspecies or strains within the same natural population. The minimum number of samples per subpopulation should be 10, and the overall number of groups should be at least 3, totaling no less than 30 samples.
• DNA Sample Volume: Each individual sample should have a total DNA amount of at least 0.5 μg with a concentration of at least 10 ng/μl. For total sample volume, the cumulative DNA amount should meet the same requirements.

What we offer

• Mutation detection: We meticulously identify mutations, including SNPs, InDels, and CNVs, providing valuable insights into the genetic makeup of populations.
• Population structure analysis: By constructing phylogenetic trees and performing principal component analysis and genetic structure analysis, we can analyze the evolutionary relationships between species.
• Genetic Diversity Analysis: We estimate population polymorphism parameters that provide critical information about genetic diversity.
• Selective elimination analysis: our analysis can reveal selective elimination that occurs during the evolution of different groups within a population.
• Gene function annotation and enrichment analysis: We calculate the distribution of candidate genes and identify functional genes associated with specific traits.
• Population history analysis: Our in-depth analysis can trace the history of divergence between sample branches, revealing the evolutionary past.
• Gene communication analysis: We analyze gene communication during population evolution to reveal complex networks of genetic interactions.

Applications of our population evolution solution

• Genetic Improvement: Enhance breeding strategies for improved agricultural traits, such as yield, disease resistance, stress tolerance, and nutritional content. We can help breeders select individuals with desirable genetic traits for further breeding programs, leading to improved crop varieties and livestock breeds.
• Conservation and Genetic Diversity: Ensure resilience against environmental changes, diseases, and pests, thereby safeguarding agricultural productivity and sustainability.
• Domestication and Crop Wild Relatives: Accelerate breeding of new crop varieties and utilize genetic resources. We can accelerate the breeding of new crop varieties, enhance traits of interest, and utilize the genetic resources found in wild relatives for crop improvement.
• Disease Resistance and Management: We can develop strategies for disease management, including the deployment of resistant varieties, identification of resistance genes, and monitoring the evolution of pathogen populations to prevent the emergence of virulent strains.
• Precision Agriculture: Tailor management practices based on genetic variations for efficient and sustainable production. Farmers can tailor management practices, such as planting strategies, nutrient management, and breeding objectives, to specific populations or local environments, leading to improved efficiency and sustainability.
• Genomic Selection and Predictive Breeding: Optimize breeding processes by understanding genetic architecture and evolutionary patterns.

Our advantages and features

• Extensive experience. We have extensive experience in agricultural genomics and bring a wealth of experience and expertise to every project.
• Cutting-edge technology. We utilize state-of-the-art genomic technologies to ensure the highest quality data and analysis.
• Customized Services. Our services are tailored to the specific needs of each client, ensuring personalized and relevant insights.
• Global reach. We serve researchers and partners around the world, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge on a global scale.

With a wealth of experience, cutting-edge technology, and a team of experts, CD Genomics is a trusted partner for evolutionary analysis of animal or plant populations. We help you to quickly and accurately analyze population information of a wide range of animal and plant species to reveal the process of population evolution. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us.

Reference

1. Casillas, Sònia, and Antonio Barbadilla. "Molecular population genetics." Genetics. 205.3 (2017): 1003-1035.

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