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From: "Lawrence Mayka" <>
Subject: Re: [DNA] Abstract: Ancient DNA as aMeanstoInvestigatetheEuropeanNeolithic
Date: Sat, 1 Sep 2007 19:24:45 -0500
In-Reply-To: <BAY111-DAV12E7FE78C86C7336432CF4B1C80@phx.gbl>


Here is a succinct reaction to the "alternative" hypothesis for lactase
persistence:

http://scienceblogs.com/gnxp/2007/02/recent_human_evolution_in_the.php

---
The area of the genome around LCT was hit by a hammer blow of selection less
than 10,000 years ago, that's why researchers use it to check if their
methods for detecting selection are working. The fact that independent
events of lactase persistence exist among other populations via alternative
genetic architectures seems to indicate clearly the power of gene-culture
coevolution. What's up with Science doing a "look at both sides" framework
when the evidence is so lopsided?
---

> [mailto:] On Behalf Of
> Lawrence Mayka
In contrast, the preconceived notion floating around is the genetically
naïve concept that the lactase persistence allele could occur in a given
individual rather recently (since the LGM), then spread all across northern
Europe within a few thousand years, purely by random chance _without_ any
natural selection; and then (miraculously!) prove to be a lifesaver for
populations who have become cattle-dependent.


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