Molecular markers allow to remove introgressed genetic background: a simulation study.

Area of Science:

• Population Genetics
• Conservation Genomics
• Molecular Ecology

Background:

• Maintaining genetically distinct populations is crucial for wild species and domestic breeds.
• Introgression by foreign individuals can dilute native genetic backgrounds.
• Methods are needed to eliminate exogenous alleles and recover native genetic integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate molecular-based diagnostic approaches for recovering native populations post-introgression.
• To assess the efficiency of different marker types in eliminating admixed alleles.
• To understand the impact on inbreeding levels during population recovery.

Main Methods:

• Utilized computer simulations to model introgression events and recovery strategies.
• Tested various molecular markers, including diagnostic markers with private alleles.
• Analyzed the contribution of individuals to subsequent generations based on marker data.

Main Results:

• Diagnostic markers, identified by private alleles, proved most efficient for recovering native genetic backgrounds.
• Markers with alleles present in both native and exogenous populations at varying frequencies were least effective.
• Increased inbreeding was an unavoidable side-effect of the management strategy.

Conclusions:

• Molecular diagnostic approaches, particularly those using private alleles, are effective for managing introgression.
• The success of recovery and the extent of inbreeding depend on the proportion of foreign individuals and admixture duration.
• Careful marker selection and management are essential to balance genetic recovery and minimize inbreeding.