Natural variation of model mutant phenotypes in Ciona intestinalis.

Natural variation of model mutant phenotypes in Ciona intestinalis.

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BACKGROUND: The study of ascidians (Chordata, Tunicata) has made a considerable contribution to our understanding of the origin and evolution of basal chordates.To provide further information to support forward genetics in Ciona intestinalis, we used a combination of natural variation and neutral population genetics as an approach for the systematic identification of new mutations.In addition to the significance of developmental variation for phenotype-driven studies, this approach can encompass important implications in evolutionary and population biology.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Here, we report a preliminary survey for naturally occurring mutations in three geographically interconnected populations of C.intestinalis.The influence of iPhone XR/11 historical, geographical and environmental factors on the distribution of abnormal phenotypes was assessed by Blu-ray Player means of 12 microsatellites.

We identified 37 possible mutant loci with stereotyped defects in embryonic development that segregate in a way typical of recessive alleles.Local populations were found to differ in genetic organization and frequency distribution of phenotypic classes.CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Natural genetic polymorphism of C.

intestinalis constitutes a valuable source of phenotypes for studying embryonic development in ascidians.Correlating genetic structure and the occurrence of abnormal phenotypes is a crucial focus for understanding the selective forces that shape natural finite populations, and may provide insights of great importance into the evolutionary mechanisms that generate animal diversity.