Y-Chromosome variation in hominids: intraspecific variation is limited to the polygamous chimpanzee.

ABSTRACT:

Background

We have previously demonstrated that the Y-specific ampliconic fertility genes DAZ (deleted in azoospermia) and CDY (chromodomain protein Y) varied with respect to copy number and position among chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). In comparison, seven Y-chromosomal lineages of the bonobo (Pan paniscus), the chimpanzee's closest living relative, showed no variation. We extend our earlier comparative investigation to include an analysis of the intraspecific variation of these genes in gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) and orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus), and examine the resulting patterns in the light of the species' markedly different social and mating behaviors.

Methodology/principal findings

Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis (FISH) of DAZ and CDY in 12 Y-chromosomal li

SUBMITTER: Greve G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3246485 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature