DSSS - Cryptic genetic variation: the hidden treasures of phenotypic variation

Identical mutations can lead to different symptoms in genetically different animals and plants. Differential penetrance and expressivity of mutations has been observed within individuals with different and similar genetic backgrounds. Attempts have been made to uncover the underlying mechanisms of this cryptic genetic variation. Studies in model species shows that to understand the underlying molecular mechanism or predict phenotypes, an understanding of the influence of genetic background is as important as the putative mutations of relatively large effect. I will highlight current insights into phenotypic variation due to gene interactions, epigenetics and stochasticity in model organisms, and discuss their importance for understanding the mutational effect on complex phenotypes, including disease symptoms.