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JAX Frontend Platform

TtGG Variation in the Genome Module

Discover how genetic variants affect traits through GWAS and statistical analysis, as students link bitter taste perception to the TAS2R38 gene and hone their data analysis skills.

Module Description

The Variation in the Genome module aims to teach quantitative and data analysis skills in the context of genetics and bioinformatics. In this module, students perform biologically meaningful calculations and basic statistical analysis. 


Through the broad lens of Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS), students learn how researchers use statistics to establish associations between genetic variants and specific traits. Students are introduced to a simplified dataset which will enable them to investigate the connection between bitter taste perception ability and genetic variants in the TAS2R38 gene. Students perform calculations and statistical analysis using the dataset population, interpret the outcomes, determine to what extent they can generalize their results, and finally consider why studies that include millions of genetic variants across larger populations require computational tools and automation.

Learning Objectives

  1. Navigate, label, and enter data into tables.
  2. Perform allele frequency calculations and basic statistical analysis using a small genotype dataset.
  3. Interpret allele frequency and statistical testing results in the context of a TAS2R38 genotype dataset.
  4. Discuss to what extent results from a small dataset can be generalized to a larger population.

NGSS Alignments

Disciplinary Core Ideas
  • LS3.B Variation of Traits
Cross Cutting Concepts
  • Patterns
Science & Engineering Practices
  • Analyzing and Interpreting Data
  • Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
  • Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Teacher Resources

Lesson Plan
Teacher Guide

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On Demand Webinar
Teacher Webinar

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Teacher Feedback Form

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Student Activities

Digital Download
Establishing Genotype-Phenotype Associations (Spreadsheet)

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Digital Download
Establishing Genotype-Phenotype Association (Paper)

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Supplemental Resources

What are DNA Variants?

Minute to Understanding: What are DNA variants?

Explore DNA variants and discover how mutations during DNA replication make each organism unique. Learn about their role in genetic variation and their potential impact on life.

View more

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