Mendelian Genetics represents the student’s gateway to Genetics. Although it is essential to understand the basis of inheritance, it does not include two important exceptions occurring in nature that distort Mendelian ratios: (1) gene interactions, or the joint action of several genes contributing to the same phenotype and (2) genetic linkage, or the location of several genes on the same chromosome. On these grounds, we present the Gene Calculator, a web tool that allows us to delve into both aspects. On the one hand, it simulates genetic crossings not only of traditional Mendelian traits but also of traits with all types of existing gene interactions. On the other hand, it allows studying the effect of linkage on Mendelian ratios by estimating genetic distances and generating an output with the graphic representation of the gametes produced by an individual with several linked genes. Finally, we evaluate the educational potential of this tool by proposing a practical activity to be used in the classroom.
Universitat de València
