Rapid evolution of a heteroplasmic repetitive sequence in the mitochondrial DNA control region of carnivores.

摘要: We describe a repetitive DNA region at the 3′ end of mitochondrial (mtDNA) control and compare it in 21 carnivore species representing eight families. The sequence organization motifs can differ extensively between arrays; however, all appear to be derived from core motif “ACGT.” Sequence data Southern blot analysis demonstrate extensive heteroplasmy. general form array is similar heteroplasmic variants within an individual individuals (varying primarily length array, though two clones northern elephant seal are exceptional). Within certain families, notably ursids, structure also species. Similarity was not apparent other such as mustelids, suggesting rapid changes some arrays. pattern change seen suggests that dominant mechanism involved evolution these arrays slippage. A comparative shows being reiterated or deleted vary arrays, varying rate turnover. discuss evolutionary implications observed patterns variation extreme levels