Posted 29 Jun 2010 - 16:26 by Genetics Administrator
Most microsatellites are assumed to evolve neutrally, imparting no effect on fitness to survive or reproduce. Yet, in recent years, several authors have provided empirical evidence supporting the hypothesis that natural selection acts on some subset of microsatellites. From the perspective of evolutionary biology, microsatellites represent intriguing targets of selection. Their high mutation rate, recurrent mutation, and structural variation suggest unique functional roles and the potential for a more rapid and flexible response to selective pressures. Unfortunately, objective tests for selection on microsatellite loci are limited by a lack of theory. I report preliminary results regarding mutation-selection balance at a microsatellite locus. In addition, I present a fast method for simulating microsatellite data at a locus subject to the forces of mutation, natural selection, and drift. Finally, I discuss potential methods for detecting microsatellites targeted by natural selection, with an eye towards human evolution and analysis of microsatellite data from the 1000 Genomes project.
