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From:
Subject: Re: [DNA] Y test - random samples
Date: Sun, 5 Jan 2003 01:14:53 EST
In a message dated 1/4/03 8:58:14 PM Pacific Standard Time,
writes:
> I would think the odds against a 9/12 in TWO
> generations must be astronomical!!! Can some of you pros comment?
>
I'm not a pro but I've never let that stop me. Without knowing where the
difference were measured we can only make guesses. It might be one two step
mutation and a one step mutation -- for a total of two mutations. I'm not
sure if a three step mutation has ever been documented but it must be
theoretically possible.
I also think mutations might occure in cluster for unknown reasons. You
should not apply the .002 mutation rate to small numbers of transmission
events. Mutations must happen sometimes and if they happen during the few
generations being examined the rate seems high but there are some large
studies that don't show any. That is why the word 'random' is used.
However, the most obvious explanation for a major difference is a
non-paternity event.
Grant W. Johnston, Chico, CA
Ask me about DNA, the genealogy tool for the 21st Century.
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