News Genetics

‘Selfish’ DNA flouts rules of inheritance

R2d2 can quickly spread to an entire mouse population despite its evolutionary disadvantage

mouse

DNA TAKEOVER  A selfish bit of DNA called R2d2 was first discovered in mice in Maryland called Watkins Star Line B, or WSB (one shown). That selfish DNA can sweep through populations, distorting views of evolution.

Jackson Laboratory photo by Jennifer L. Torrance

By Tina Hesman Saey

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