what really stands out for me is the sudden appearance of rapid mutation.
That there are only two mutational differences between a chicken and a chimp, shows how evolutionarily stable this HAR1 has been; its highly conserved....implies that it had an important function, and changes were detrimental.
The finding of 18 changes between humans and chimps is gobsmacking! and its understandable that GDR would want to take the GOD route here.
While this is still evolution, its unusual nonetheless.
How does a highly conserved region suddenly start sprouting stable mutations left right and centre?
My guess is, one of the first few mutations resulted in a more stable protein, allowng more room for change.
Coupled with a greater selective advantage, this could possibly lead to present day situation.
What's yours?
PS. Is there a primary paper? anyone have it?
"The good Christian should beware the mathematician and all those who make empty prophecies. The danger already exists that the mathematicians have made a covenant with the devil to darken the spirit and to confine man in the bonds of hell." - St. Augustine
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