MICROSATELLITES, FROM MOLECULES TO POPULATIONS AND BACK

Population genetics studies using microsatellites, and data on their m olecular dynamics, are on the increase. But, so far, no consensus has emerged on which mutation model should be used, though this is of para mount importance for analysis of population genetic structure. However , this is not surprising given the variety of microsatellite molecular motifs. Null alleles may be disturbing for population studies, even t hough their presence can be detected through careful population analys es, while homoplasy seems of little concern, at least over short evolu tionary scales. Interspecific studies show that microsatellites are po or markers for phylogenetic inference. However, these studies are fuel ling discussions on directional mutation and the role of selection and recombination In their evolution. Nonetheless, it remains true that m icrosatellites may be considered as good, neutral mendelian markers.