swallow-dallas

Human Evolution Interest

I am interested in the origin and significance of functional variation in epithelial proteins - molecules located at the barrier between the 'inside' and the 'outside' of the body - in particular mucins (MUCs) and digestive enzymes such as lactase.

We study inter-individual variation at the DNA level as well as looking at the RNA and protein products of these genes and asking questions about gene/environment interactions. For example, together with others in the Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, we are pursuing the molecular basis and evolutionary significance of the lactase persistence polymorphism.

Human Evolution Research Themes

Collaborative projects & Networks