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Clusters of identical new mutation in the evolutionary landscape

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Abstract

In contrast to the common assumption that each new mutant results from a unique, independent mutation event, clusters of identical premeiotic mutant alleles are common. Clusters can produce large numbers of related individuals carrying identical copies of the same new genetic change. By entering the gene pool in multiple copies at one time, clusters can influence fundamental processes of population genetics. Here we report evidence that clusters can increase the arrival and fixation probabilities and can lengthen the average time to extinction of new mutations. We also suggest it may be necessary to reconsider other fundamental elements of population genetic theory.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, 43403, Bowling Green, OH, USA

    R. C. Woodruff & Haiying Hual

  2. Department of Zoology, University of Oklahoma, 73019, Norman, OK, USA

    James N. Thompson Jr.

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  1. R. C. Woodruff
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  2. Haiying Hual
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Woodruff, R.C., Hual, H. & Thompson, J.N. Clusters of identical new mutation in the evolutionary landscape. Genetica 98, 149–160 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00121363

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