Intrachromosomal gene conversion, linkage, and the evolution of multigene families (Q1080796)

This is in continuation of previous work [see e.g. the first author, J. math. Biol. 21, 215-235 (1985; Zbl 0579.92013) and ibid. 19, 13-42 (1984; Zbl 0533.92011)]. Assuming unbiased intrachromosomal gene conversion, equal crossing over between tandemly repeated genes and random genetic drift, two models were considered. In the ''homogeneous model'' the probabilities of gene identity are worked out under position dependence neglecting end effects. In the ''exchangeable model'', on which previous work was based, the position dependence is disregarded. Numerical results indicate that the homogeneous model is always more accurate than the exchangeable model and is also sufficiently accurate for quantitative conclusions.