Polymorphisms at VNTR loci suggest homogeneity of the white population of Utah.

Apparent departure from equilibrium of genetic parameters measured for multiallelic single-locus markers such as VNTR (variable number of tandem repeat) loci has been suggested as evidence of underlying heterogeneity of the tested population. Using allele frequency distributions at eight VNTR loci from the white population of Utah, we show that the observed number of alleles and the gene diversity at each locus are congruent according to expectations of the neutral mutation model. This demonstrates the genetic homogeneity of the white population of Utah with reference to the allele (total and rare) frequency distribution at eight VNTR loci. The importance of such procedures is discussed in the context of using VNTR polymorphism data for forensic and medicolegal applications. Recommendations for reporting population data for hypervariable loci are also made to aid potential users in conducting similar analyses.