ANTHROP 2200H Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: Carotene, Rickets, Vitamin D Deficiency

• School: Ohio State University
• Department: Anthropology
• Course: ANTHROP 2200H
• Professor: Trask Lexine

Document Summary

Human variation & adaptation: complex traits, multi-locus (polygenic) trait, exhibit continuous distribution displayed by bell-shaped curve, range of phenotypes = plasticity, multifactorial. Inherited as genetic potential that can be modified (ex. Two or more distinct phenotypes that exist within a population. Can refer to either genetic or anatomical levels. Abo blood group: clinical distribution of blood group system. Prevents alternate phenotypes from being fixed or lost. Due to selective advantage of the heterozygote: sickle cell anemia. High frequency of sickle cell trait with endemic malaria. Plasmodium: p malariae, p vivax, p falciparum, p ovale. Fever; anemia; headache; dehydration; chills; vomiting; inflammation of spleen and liver. Low work capacity; sperm counts; vitality; high rates of miscarriage; infant mortality. A: evolutionary process in cultural context, sickle cell allele and malaria. Modification of environments led to selection of hbs. Malarial regions = carriers over-represented in populations over age 45 = enhanced survival. Simple trait, not mendelian: levels of adaptation.