Inheritance of alternative states of the fused gene in mice.

The genetics of the fused (Fu) gene in the house mouse, Mus musculus, was studied by use of the closely linked recessive marker, tufted (tf). Evidence was obtained indicating that Fu passes from a phenotypically active state to inactive: Fu in equilibrium with [Fu]. These alternative states may be genetically transmitted. It is suggested that the activation of a "dormant" Fu gene may underlie this passage.