Molecular Biology and Human Diversity

This 1996 volume discusses molecular evidence and methods behind current theories of human diversity and evolution.

Molecular studies of human diversity and origins are receiving increasing attention. Evidence from nuclear DNA and from archaic populations has given insights into the field. This 1996 volume discusses the importance of these new methods and findings for human biology, molecular biology and genetics.Considerable attention is being paid to the use of molecular evidence in studies of human diversity and origins. Much of the early work was based on evidence from mitochondrial DNA, but this has been supplemented by important information from nuclear DNA from both the Y chromosomes and the autosomes. The bulk of the material available is also from living populations, but this is being extended by the study of DNA from archaic populations. The underlying models used in interpreting this evidence are developments of the neutral theory of molecular evolution, but also consider the possible role of selection. This 1996 volume brings together evidence from an international group of research workers. It will be an important reference for researchers in human biology, molecular biology and genetics alike.