Research article summary (published 30 Oct 1994):

Mitochondrial DNA sequence divergence among some west European brown bear (Ursus arctos L.) populations. Lessons for conservation.

Full Abstract

We used the polymerase chain reaction and nucleotide sequencing to study mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genetic variability of brown bears (Ursus arctos) belonging to some western European populations. Demographic decline and isolation have apparently shaped genetic variability within and between populations. Small relict bear populations were apparently monomorphic and fixed for different mtDNA haplotypes. Genetic relationships among mtDNA haplotypes suggested the existence of a phylogeographic structure. We discuss the possible roles of historical and demographic factors in determining the observed genetic patterns. The low genetically effective size of the studied brown bear populations points to risks of continuing future loss of gene diversity and increase in inbreeding. Artificial gene flow through restocking could alleviate inbreeding depression in small isolated brown bear populations, and mtDNA phylogeographic relationships may provide a framework for their genetic management.

Author information

Author/s: Randi, E (E); Gentile, L (L); Boscagli, G (G); Huber, D (D); Roth, H U (HU);

Affiliation: Istituto Nazionale per la Fauna Selvatica, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Heredity (Heredity), published in ENGLAND. (Language: eng)

Reference: 1994-Nov; vol 73 ( Pt 5) (issue ) : pp 480-9

Dates: Created 1994/12/29; Completed 1994/12/29; Revised 2008/11/21;

PMID: 7960923, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Animals Base Sequence Conserved Sequence Cytochrome b Group - genetics DNA, Mitochondrial - genetics Europe

Genetic Variation Haplotypes Molecular Sequence Data Phylogeny Polymerase Chain Reaction Ursidae - genetics

Associated Chemicals: Cytochrome b Group (0) ; DNA, Mitochondrial (0)

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