Body weight and tail length divergence in mice selected for rate of development

A series of mouse lines has been produced by 19 generations of restricted index selection for rate of development during early and late ontogeny. The selection program was based on an index with the following four replicated selection treatments: E(+) and E(-) were selected to alter birth to 10-day body weight gain while holding late gain for both selection lines constant; correspondingly, L(+) and L(-) were selected to alter 28- to 56-day body weight gain holding early gain for both lines constant. Herein, we characterize response to selection for growth rate by analyzing age-specific mouse body weight and tail lengths and for growth curves using a logistics model. Selection on developmental rate has resulted in divergence in both age-specific and growth curve traits. E(+) and L(+) lines reached identical weights during the late selection interval, then diverged to unique mature weights. E(-) and L(-) lines similarly achieved identical weights during late selection and diverged to unique mature weights. However, the shapes of early and late growth curves were significantly divergent, and at least two distinct growth patterns are shown to result from selection. Response in body weight gain was accompanied by similar, though less pronounced, change in tail length traits. Significant response during intervals of restricted growth was also found, especially in lines selected for late gain. The evolution of the growth trajectory under restricted index selection is discussed in terms of drift and available additive genetic variation and covariation.