Deleterious mutation rates in humans
Interesting article in yesterday's PNAS by Michael Lynch. He tried to estimate the mutation rate in humans and its consequence on human fitness and health. His conclusion?
Fascinating.
Lynch. 2010. Rate, molecular spectrum, and consequences of human mutation. PNAS 107:961-968.
Finally, a consideration of the long-term consequences of current human behavior for deleterious-mutation accumulation leads to the conclusion that a substantial reduction in human fitness can be expected over the next few centuries in industrialized societies unless novel means of genetic intervention are developed.
Fascinating.
Lynch. 2010. Rate, molecular spectrum, and consequences of human mutation. PNAS 107:961-968.