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Molecular evolution

Hidden diversity sparks adaptation

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Although some genetic mutations have clear effects, others have been considered neutral and inconsequential. Such cryptic mutations can nonetheless facilitate adaptation to new environments. See Letter p.92

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Figure 1: Role of cryptic genetic variation in adaptation.

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Correspondence to Joshua B. Plotkin.

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Draghi, J., Plotkin, J. Hidden diversity sparks adaptation. Nature 474, 45–46 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/474045a

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