Recombination modification with \(X\)-linked characters (Q1309382)

Since 1967 there is a development of a mathematical theory of neutral modifiers of recombination, mutation and migration. In the present paper two linked loci on the \(X\)-chomosome in an \(X-Y\) sex determining system are investigated. The rate of recombination between the two major loci is controlled by a modifier locus which is located on the same chromosome. While the major loci are subject to viability selection, the modifier locus is selectively neutral and controls the crossing over probabilities. The authors derive the dynamics for male and female gametic frequencies under random mating, and investigate the existence and nature of a special class of equilibria called viability analogous Hardy-Weinberg equilibria. It is shown that these equilibria are externally stable against invasion by a new mutant allele at the modifier locus, if and only if the mean recombination rate is less than the marginal recombination rate introduced by the new allele. Thus, if an allele increases the recombination rate between the major loci, it will be expelled from the population. This result confirms a general ``Reduction Principle'' observed for modifiers of recombination, mutation and migration rates.