ISSN:
1573-3297
Keywords:
handedness
;
segregation analysis
;
threshold models
;
generational effect
;
maternal transmission
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Psychology
Notes:
Abstract Segregation analysis was performed on a large body of data on hand preference in nuclear families. The results suggest that the pattern of inheritance is consistent with Mendelian transmission, with different penetrance parameters for males and females. Although a single-locus model was more likely, a polygenic alternative could not be rejected. The parsimonious model specified a recessive right-shift gene of frequency 0.748. All females with the right-shift genotype become right-handed, while a small percentage (4.2%) of males with the right-shift genotype becomes left-handed (sporadic left-handers). Goodness-of-fit tests of simple genetic models were performed on the current data set as well as six others from the literature. Results suggest an adequate fit of both single-locus and polygenic models in nearly all data sets, with reasonable consistency among the parameter estimates. Furthermore, the observed generational effect in hand preference (reduction in left-handedness in parents compared with offspring) is found to be consistent with the relaxation of cultural pressure over time. Also, the simple genetic models of hand preference provide an acceptable alternative to maternal transmission, which has previously been suggested.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01070896
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