Can Gene Frequencies Change in the Absence of Selection? Why

question 2

Essay

Can gene frequencies change in the absence of selection? Why or why not?

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Definitions:

High Risk Factor

A variable associated with an increased likelihood of suffering from a particular disease or health condition.

Mutated Form

An alteration in the DNA sequence of a gene resulting in a variant form that may alter the function of the produced protein.

BRCA 1 Gene

A gene found on chromosome 17 that, when mutated, significantly increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

Mortality Rates

An indicator that determines how often deaths occur within a specific group of people over a given time period.