Group Discussion
Evolution can be defined as the paradigm shifts involved during the various transformations experienced by the entire population of a species over generations. During such changes, genetic variations are the controlling factor being prompted by gene mutation or genetic recombination (NIH, 2020). The occurring genetic variations interfere with gene activities or protein function, which later results in specific character trait disparities. The actual and genetic survival changes are passed down from one generation to the other as a survival technique(NIH, 2020). Moreover, such transformations show a significant deviation from the original ancestral species (NIH, 2020). However, only specific types of mutations are responsible for evolution. Therefore, hereditary mutations that occur within the egg or sperm cell component are the only considered sources of genetic influence on evolution.
The Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) is used in the discovery and comparison of nucleotide or amino acid sequences. Similar sequences are considered homologous (Themes & Co, 2020). Homology can sometimes occur for genes of different organisms; therefore, these organisms are believed to have a common ancestry (Themes & Co, 2020). The tool conducts the alignment of sequences against various others while using a scoring matrix (Themes & Co, 2020). Such a tool helps scientists study the genetic blueprint of life in diverse organisms as well as forming a bridge across computer science and biology, resulting in bioinformatics. The device solves the problems of gene identity while describing and understanding a specific organism or species regarding its evolution. Also, the BLAST helps identify the endangered and threatened species in nature. Possible research questions include: What is the Relationship between Alignment Sequence and Evolution?
References
NIH. (2020, May 26). How Are Genetic Mutations Involved in Evolution? Retrieved May 30, 2020, from Genetic Home Reference: https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/primer/mutationsanddisorders/evolution
Themes & Co. (2020). BLAST. Retrieved May 30, 2020, from Ecology and Evolution Unit Page: http://ecoevo.unit.oist.jp/lab/?page_id=255