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Complex selection associated with Hox genes in a natural population of lizards
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 06:38 authored by Schwartz, TS, Perrin, C, Erik WapstraErik Wapstra, Uller, M, Olsson, MHox genes are recognized for their explanatory power of bilateral development. However, relatively little is known about natural variation in, and the evolutionary dynamics of, Hox genes within wild populations. Utilizing a natural population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), we screened HoxA13 for genetic variation and an association with incidence of offspring malformations. We found significant effects of parental genetic similarity and offspring sex, and their interaction, on risk of hatching malformed as an offspring. We also found within population genetic variation in HoxA13, and identified a significant effect of a three-way interaction among Hox genotype, parental genetic similarity, and offspring sex on the risk of hatching malformation. Since malformed offspring in this population do not survive to maturity, this study reveals complex and ongoing selection associated with Hox genes in a wild reptile population. Importantly, this demonstrates the utility of natural populations in unveiling microevolutionary processes shaping variation in highly conserved genes.
History
Publication title
Journal of Evolutionary BiologyVolume
24Issue
11Pagination
2520-2524ISSN
1010-061XDepartment/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
Blackwell Publishing LtdPlace of publication
9600 Garsington Rd, Oxford, England, Oxon, Ox4 2DgRights statement
The definitive published version is available online at: http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/Repository Status
- Restricted