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Phylogenetics
Welcome to Module 7 of "Bioinformatics Fundamentals": Phylogenetics. This module explores the principles and methodologies used to reconstruct evolutionary relationships and understand the evolutionary history of species through genetic data.
Phylogenetics is a fundamental field in biology that seeks to unravel the complex web of evolutionary connections between living organisms. By analyzing the similarities and differences in genetic sequences, researchers can infer the evolutionary paths that have led to the diverse array of species we observe today.
Through the power of computational analysis and advanced algorithms, bioinformaticians are able to build phylogenetic trees - visual representations of the evolutionary relationships between organisms. These trees provide a valuable framework for understanding the shared ancestry and divergence of species, as well as the underlying genetic mechanisms that drive evolutionary change.
In this module, we will delve into the various techniques and approaches used in phylogenetic analysis, from sequence alignment and tree construction to the interpretation of evolutionary patterns. By mastering these concepts, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the evolutionary processes that have shaped the natural world around us.

Learning Objectives

Lesson 7.1 Basics of Phylogenetic Analysis Explore the fundamental concepts and theories behind phylogenetic analysis, including evolutionary relationships, genetic distance, and phylogenetic trees. Lesson 7.2 Construction of Phylogenetic Trees Learn about methods and algorithms used to construct phylogenetic trees from molecular data, including distance-based methods, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference. Lesson 7.3 Molecular Clock and Evolutionary Analysis Understand the concept of molecular clocks and their application in estimating evolutionary divergence times, molecular evolution rates, and historical biogeography.