NHGRI researcher Dr. Elaine A. Ostrander focuses on the "powerful tool" of comparative genomics - comparisons of genes with organisms. Dr. Ostrander discussess comparing the portions of genes from different species - such as the chicken, wallabee and pufferfish - that have common functions, and how the divergence of these genes is shedding light on evolution of the human genome. Dr. Ostrander's research focuses on genetic variation between seven major groups of the domestic dog. Sequencing dog genomes and comparing them to the human genome allows researchers to learn about what genes or portions of genes are conserved across species.

For more information and video presentation with slides please go to: http://www.genome.gov/25019917