Challenge to the Ancient Origin of SIVagm Based on African Green Monkey Mitochondrial Genomes
Author Information
Author(s): Joel O. Wertheim, Michael Worobey
Primary Institution: University of Arizona
Hypothesis
Did SIVagm codiverge with African green monkeys (AGMs) or is it a more recent infection?
Conclusion
The study found that SIVagm and AGM mitochondrial genomes did not evolve along the same phylogenetic topology, suggesting a recent origin of SIVagm rather than ancient codivergence.
Supporting Evidence
- The AGM mitochondrial genomes and SIVagm did not evolve along the same topology.
- The most recent common ancestor of AGMs was estimated to be approximately 3 million years ago.
- The study used the Shimodaira–Hasegawa test to analyze phylogenetic congruence.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at the DNA of African green monkeys and their viruses and found that the virus probably didn't infect them until after the monkeys evolved, meaning it’s a newer infection.
Methodology
The study sequenced complete AGM mitochondrial genomes and compared them to SIVagm genomes using phylogenetic analysis.
Limitations
The study only analyzed mitochondrial genomes and did not include other genetic loci that may provide additional insights.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
2.81 ± 0.35 million years ago
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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