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PubMed · 10723034

Canalization in evolutionary genetics: a stabilizing theory?

G Gibson·G Wagner
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Abstract

Canalization is an elusive concept. The notion that biological systems ought to evolve to a state of higher stability against mutational and environmental perturbations seems simple enough, but has been exceedingly difficult to prove. Part of the problem has been the lack of a definition of canalization that incorporates an evolutionary genetic perspective and provides a framework for both mathematical and empirical study. After briefly reviewing the importance of canalization in studies of evolution and development, we aim, with this essay, to outline a research program that builds upon the definition of canalization as the reduction in variability of a trait, and uses molecular genetic approaches to shed light on the problems of canalization.

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Adaptation, PhysiologicalAnimalsEnvironmentEvolution, MolecularJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tReview

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G Gibson, G Wagner. 2000. Canalization in evolutionary genetics: a stabilizing theory?. https://doi.org/10.1002/(sici)1521-1878(200004)22%3A4%3C372%3A%3Aaid-bies7%3E3.0.co%3B2-j

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