Evidence for a selectively favourable reduction in the mutation rate of the X chromosome

Article Abstract:

An examination of 33 X-linked genes that have been sequenced in both mouse and rat and a comparison of their rate of evolution against 238 autosomal genes revealed a significant difference between the mutation rate on rodent X chromosomes and the non-sex-related chromosomes. Such difference is too substantial to be accounted for by a higher mutation rate in males or by stronger purifying selection against slightly deleterious mutations on the X. The closest explanation is that rodents have a lower mutation rate on the X chromosom than on autosomes.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

Sex and the X

Article Abstract:

Research examining the relevance of the number and location of genes in the constitution of genomes specific to the two sexes is presented. Particular attention is given to spermatogenetic analysis of genome constitution. It is emphasized that sex chromosomes are directly related to sex-specific genes.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

The proteins of linked genes evolve at similar rates

Article Abstract:

A new predictor of a protein's rate of evolution is reported.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code: