Evidence that enzyme polymorphisms are selectively neutral, but blood group polymorphisms are not

Science. 1974 Mar 15;183(4129):1091-2. doi: 10.1126/science.183.4129.1091.

Abstract

Data on enzyme polymorphism and blood group polymorphism were examined with special reference to molecular evolution, by using a statistic that depends on neither population structure nor other ecological factors. The data of the former are consistent with the hypothesis of neutral mutant and random genetic drift, whereas the latter are in accord with the hypothesis of balanced selection.

MeSH terms

  • Blood Group Antigens*
  • Enzymes / biosynthesis*
  • Gene Frequency*
  • Heterozygote
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Mutation
  • Polymorphism, Genetic*

Substances

  • Blood Group Antigens
  • Enzymes