This research is designed to investigate the dynamics of change at the molecular level. It uses the enzyme phosphoglucose isomerase in the genus Colias (the sulphur butterfly) as an experimental model. The major focus of this research involves a comparison of PGI DNA sequences within and between species of Colias and related genera. Sequence changes will then be interpreted in relation to three dimensional structural information on PGI, the phylogenetic relationships of the butterflies involved, and previous studies on Colias PGI. In addition, this information will be used to address relationships within the Coliadinae, which includes Colias. One of the potential real benefits of the proposed research is that a more accurate picture of selective forces on PGI associated with the structure and function of this protein will be obtained.
