[Molecular drive]

The review of the concept of molecular drive developed by Dover is presented. The ideas on the possible role of non-coding DNA are described and the duplication of genes as the fundamental factor preceding the appearance of the gene, which possesses a new function are characterized. The non-Mendelian processes--the non-equal crossing-over and the conversion of genes are considered. Molecular drive includes both these phenomena and the transposition of genes. The examples of drive are presented. Drive can be considered as the fundamental molecular mechanism of speciation and macroevolution. Evolution at molecular level is directly connected with the non-constancy of the genome and is non-Mendelian and non-Darwinian. Both the coding and non-coding DNA can serve as material for evolution.