On switches and knobs, microsatellites and monogamy.
Comparative studies in voles have suggested that a polymorphic microsatellite upstream of the Avpr1a locus contributes to the evolution of monogamy. A recent study challenged this hypothesis by reporting that there is no relationship between microsatellite structure and monogamy in 21 vole species. Although the study demonstrates that the microsatellite is not a universal genetic switch that determines mating strategy, the findings do not preclude a substantial role for Avpr1a in regulating social behaviors associated with monogamy.
Young
Larry J
LJ
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, 954 Gatewood Road, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. lyoun03@emory.edu
Hammock
Elizabeth A D
EA
D000818:Animals; D003411:Arvicolinae / Q000235:genetics*; D005544:Forecasting; D018895:Microsatellite Repeats / Q000235:genetics*; D010802:Phylogeny; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D017483:Receptors, Vasopressin / Q000235:genetics; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal; D012919:Social Behavior
D017483:Receptors, Vasopressin