BCH447H1 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Effective Population Size, Neutral Mutation, Mutation Rate
Document Summary
Present neutral mutations that have effects on phenotype. What is neutral theory, the assumption is that although neutral mutations occur at the genetic level they are of no consequence if they are not phenotypically present. And furthermore, that if phenotype is involved than a mutation is under selective pressure. This is untrue, there are a meriad of neutral mutations giving rise to phenotypes without including selection occurring through random genetic drift. Therefore, the neutral theory does not only apply to mutations detected by molecular genetics phenotypic alterations do not define selection and are not impermeable to random genetic drift. The molecular clock ticks at different rates in different proteins based on their ability to mutate while conserving function. Large sequence sectors not important for the function of the protein. Small proteins largely composed of active site mutate less. Abilities to buffer certain amino acid alterations without affecting active site function.
