We will integrate telomeres, free radicals and signal biology into a coherent research program on the development of male ornaments and concomitant impact on male rival assessment, longevity and life time fitness in the wild. Specifically, we will research how telomere length in sires shorten under stress and how this epigenetic effect is transferred from sires to sons (possibly influenced by DNA methylation) and moderates filial status signals and success in sperm competition and cryptic female choice. In most species, humans included, females live longer than males. We examine this from a perspective of evolution of sexual dimorphism in exposure to free radicals and coevolved innate antioxidant production, such as superoxide dismutase.
We will integrate telomeres, free radicals and signal biology into a coherent research program on the development of male ornaments and concomitant impact on male rival assessment, longevity and life time fitness in the wild. Specifically, we will research how telomere length in sires shorten under stress and how this epigenetic effect is transferred from sires to sons (possibly influenced by DNA methylation) and moderates filial status signals and success in sperm competition and cryptic female choice. In most species, humans included, females live longer than males. We examine this from a perspective of evolution of sexual dimorphism in exposure to free radicals and coevolved innate antioxidant production, such as superoxide dismutase.
