Genes that determine tooth shape identified
Researchers identified genes that impact tooth development and variation among ethnic groups. They found associations with tooth dimensions on genes inherited from Neanderthals and other genetic variants.
Evolutionary Developmental Biology
Articles tagged with Evolutionary Developmental Biology
Biological diversity is not just the result of genes
Researchers from UNIGE found that mechanical forces, linked to tissue growth, drive the emergence of diverse biological structures. They demonstrated this using computer modeling and microscopy, revealing how variations in skin growth rates and stiffness generate distinct scale forms among different crocodilian species.
Three Texas A&M biologists receive coveted MIRA research grants
Three Texas A&M biologists have received NIH Maximizing Investigators’ Research Awards to support their research on type IV pili, darter fish social behaviors and bacteriophages. Drs Koch, Moran and Ramsey will explore bacterial behavior, genetic mechanisms and neural basis of paternal care in fish.
Autonomous imaging robot plays a crucial role in assessing embryos’ response to environmental change
The LabEmbryoCam is a robotic instrument that autonomously monitors embryonic development in aquatic species, providing insights into how environmental conditions impact early life stages. The open-source instrument enables scientists to track key features such as heart rate and growth in large numbers of embryos simultaneously.
Welcome Evo, generative AI for the genome
Evo, a generative AI model, uses patterns in microbial genomes to write new genetic code, expanding the length of sequences models can process and improving resolution. Researchers use Evo to understand microbial and viral genomes, fashion new proteins, and reprogram microbes for remarkable tasks.
Barcelona launches world’s first evolutionary medical genomics program
Researchers from CRG, UPF, and IBE are teaming up to explore evolutionary underpinnings of disease at the molecular level. The program combines evolutionary medicine and medical genomics to enhance precision medicine.
From food crops to cancer clinics: Lessons in extermination resistance
Researchers explore adapting agricultural techniques, such as integrated pest management, to treat cancer. By managing cancer as a chronic condition, adaptive therapy aims to overcome treatment resistance and improve patient outcomes.
The origin of stem cells
Researchers identified critical proteins involved in animal stem cell regulation, including SOX and POU transcription factors, which existed in single-celled organisms over 700 million years ago. These ancient proteins retained functional properties that enabled them to induce stem cell reprogramming in mouse cells.
Scientists recreate mouse from gene older than animal life
An international team of researchers successfully created a mouse using genetic tools from a unicellular organism, challenging the notion that these genes evolved exclusively within animals. The study uses ancient genetic tools to reprogram mouse cells into pluripotent stem cells.
Climate change can cause stress in herring larvae
Exposure to multiple environmental stressors simultaneously impairs the ability of herring larvae to react at a molecular level, reducing their capacity for acclimatization. This can lead to increased protein damage and cell injury, potentially affecting growth and survival.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024
A new wrinkle in turtles: Their genomes fold in a unique way, Iowa State researchers find
Iowa State researchers discovered a surprising chromatin arrangement in two species of turtles, which may shed light on the evolution of vertebrate genomes. The study's findings could have potential biomedical applications, such as treating strokes or cryogenic preservation of human tissues.
The high cost of complexity
A new study led by Arizona State University researcher Michael Lynch explores the substantial energy demands required to maintain and evolve multicellular life. Multicellular organisms require a tenfold increase in energy compared to protists, highlighting how respiration and metabolic processes are crucial for advanced life forms.
SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024
Similarities in brain development between marmosets and humans
A study by researchers at the University of Zurich found that common marmosets' brain development is shaped by prolonged learning from social interactions, similar to humans. This similarity suggests that early-life social experiences may be crucial for the formation of neural and cognitive networks in humans.
Birth: It’s a tight squeeze for chimpanzees, too
Researchers found that chimpanzees have a similarly narrow pelvis to humans, contradicting previous theories. The study proposes a new hypothesis that the obstetrical dilemma developed gradually and became increasingly exacerbated over evolution.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 23, 2024
International project will explore how molecular evolution enables animals to adapt to extreme cold
The international project will analyze temperature-sensitive proteins in animals adapted to different thermal environments to understand how they perceive temperature changes. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying cold perception in animals, enabling them to initiate physiological responses crucial for survival.
Turtle genome provides new clues on the evolution of vertebrates
The study of turtle genomes provides crucial information for the development of effective conservation strategies and the understanding of the evolution of sex chromosomes. Researchers have identified a novel three-dimensional chromatin conformation in both lineages, allowing for centromere-telomere interactions.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGenome Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2024
Giant prehistoric elephant skull from India belongs to mysterious extinct species
A team of scientists studied the Kashmir skull and found it to be a distinct species from other known Eurasian Palaeoloxodon. The research suggests that Palaeoloxodon turkmenicus represents a poorly-known missing link in the evolution of these prehistoric megaherbivores.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2024
Scientists find plausible geological setting that may have sparked life on Earth
Researchers identify a plausible geological environment where nucleic acids can replicate and potentially lead to life. The study reveals a circular fluid flow at the gas-water interface drives strand separation, allowing replication to occur.
Megadiverse flowering plant family on isolated islands
Researchers discovered a massive number of evolutionary events in the Asteraceae family on remote islands, resulting from rapid speciation over short time periods. The findings confirm that larger, isolated islands harbor unique species and highlight the importance of protecting this diverse group of plants.
These fish use legs to taste the seafloor
Researchers discovered that sea robins' legs are covered in sensory papillae with taste receptors, allowing them to detect and uncover food. The findings reveal an ancient gene controlling leg development and sensory organ formation, shedding light on the evolution of complex traits in wild organisms.
Stowers scientists uncover a critical component that helps killifish regenerate their fins
A recent study published in iScience found that the length of time cells spend engaged in the repair process is also key to regulating regeneration in African killifish. The researchers discovered that skin cells launch a genetic program that primes the whole animal to prepare for a repair response, guiding repair cells to get to work.
SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2024
Flowers use adjustable ‘paint by numbers’ petal designs to attract pollinators
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that flowers like hibiscus use an invisible blueprint to dictate the size of their bullseyes, which can significantly impact their ability to attract pollinating bees. Larger bullseyes are preferred by bees and can potentially boost efficiency for both bees and blossoms.
Multiple ways to evolve tiny knee bone could have helped humans walk upright
Researchers from King's College London found that the lateral fabella, a sesame seed-sized bone in the knee, evolved differently in humans than most primates. This distinct evolutionary pathway may have helped early humans walk upright and could be an example of exaptation.
SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 10, 2024
Beyond needles: Introducing a new, nature-based approach for delivering cargo into egg cells
A new method called VitelloTag has been developed at the Marine Biological Laboratory, allowing researchers to deliver miniature research tools into egg cells and embryos. The approach uses a yolk protein found in most animals to bind to the receptor on the egg cell surface, enabling efficient delivery of CRISPR-Cas9.
Evolving the framework of cancer theory
Researchers propose a new approach to understanding cancer evolution, acknowledging the importance of environmental influences and epigenetic changes. By refining the clonal evolution model, they aim to develop more effective cancer therapies that consider the full complexity of cancer cell evolution.
Ancient gene gives spiders their narrow waist
A previously unstudied ancient gene called 'waist-less' is required for the development of a spider's narrow waist, according to researchers. The discovery sheds light on the formation of the distinctive body plan in spiders and highlights the function of new genes in ancient groups of animals.
Creature the size of a dust grain found hiding in California's Mono Lake
Researchers found a choanoflagellate harboring its own microbiome, forming colonies that enclose bacteria and exhibiting a unique symbiotic relationship. This discovery sheds light on the origin of interactions between animals and bacteria in ancient oceans.
Blind cavefish have extraordinary taste buds
Researchers found that blind cavefish develop more taste buds on their head and chin, particularly after 18 months of age. This adaptation is thought to be an adaptive trait, allowing the fish to better detect food sources like bat guano.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 15, 2024
U of T researchers discover high levels of non-coding RNAs in testes, suggesting new roles in sperm function and evolution
Researchers at U of T mapped the spatial distribution of long non-coding RNAs in testes, finding higher levels than previously estimated. The study suggests lncRNAs play a more significant role in male reproduction and may influence sperm development and behavior.
Lampreys possess a ‘jaw-dropping’ evolutionary origin
Researchers found a strikingly similar pluripotency gene network across jawless and jawed vertebrates, suggesting a common evolutionary origin. The study reveals that the loss of the pou5 gene in lampreys' neural crest cells may have limited their ability to form cell types found in jawed vertebrates.
Size doesn’t matter for mammals with more complex brains, according to new study
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that mammals with more developed brains tend to exhibit smaller sexual size dimorphism (SSD), meaning there is less difference in size between males and females. This suggests that complex brain development may be linked to other traits such as social behavior and mate selection.
University of Washington researchers take flight with new insights on bat evolution
Researchers from the University of Washington have made significant advancements in understanding the evolutionary origins of flight in bats. The study, published in PeerJ Life & Environment, explores the transition from gliding to powered flight using phylogenetic comparative methods.
Eyes for Love: Searching for light and a mate in the deep, dark sea, male dragonfishes grow larger eyes than the females they seek
Researchers at Boston College found male dragonfish have evolved larger eyes to detect females who produce less light, closing a bioluminescent detection gap. This is the second known case of sexually dimorphic eye-size in fishes and highlights the unique adaptations of deep-sea species.
Exposing dengue’s invasion strategies
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the dengue virus genome's use of less efficient codons in its host's machinery to replicate and spread. This discovery has implications for developing novel antiviral treatments and vaccines, as well as understanding the relationship between viruses and their hosts.
SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2024
New snake discovery rewrites history, points to North America’s role in snake evolution
A new species of fossil snake, Hibernophis breithaupti, has been discovered in Wyoming, shedding light on the origin and diversification of boas and pythons. The discovery provides important new information on the evolution of small burrowing boas, specifically rubber boas.
Using AI to scrutinize, validate theories on animal evolution
A new study uses machine learning to analyze the genetic diversity of two amphibian species, finding that different processes shaped their evolution. The research suggests that population demographic events and contemporary landscape factors played a significant role in shaping the genetic variation of these species.
SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·TypeCase study·DateJul 18, 2024
Digital dog and cat skull database
The ELTE Eötvös Loránd University has digitised over 431 animal skulls, including those of 152 dog breeds and 12 wild relatives. This unique collection is now available online, enabling researchers to conduct comparative anatomical and evolutionary studies.
Scientists unravel transition of survival strategies in grape family
The study reveals that 'move' dominated during Eocene and Miocene Climatic Optimums, while 'evolve' prevailed after Miocene, correlating with global cooling and new habitats. The transition between these strategies has significant implications for plant survival and adaptation.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024
Human crying stresses out dogs more than pigs
Researchers found that dogs matched their emotional state with the content of human vocalizations, while pigs exhibited stress behaviors to unusual humming sounds. This suggests that domestication may have facilitated emotional contagion in dogs.
The evolution of firefly lights
A genomic analysis overturned the leading hypothesis on firefly light origin, revealing that lucibufagins, a toxic compound, evolved after bioluminescence development. Fireflies' ancestors diversified during a period of rising atmospheric oxygen levels, suggesting a similar path to glowing millipedes.
How cells boost gene expression
A research team from Göttingen University has discovered that antisense RNA (asRNA) plays a crucial role in cell transport, allowing cells to accelerate gene expression and produce proteins quickly in response to environmental stress or harm. This new understanding sheds light on the function of asRNAs and their potential link to disea...
After graduating without lab experience, UConn RaMP scholars publish first-of-its kind scorpion genome
A team of UConn researchers, without lab experience, published the first chromosome-level genome of a desert hairy scorpion. The study sheds light on arachnid evolution and advances comparative genomics research.
SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2024
Study adds new sea cucumber species to the research toolbox
Researchers have established Holothuria tubulosa as a new experimental model organism for studying evolutionary development in echinoderms. The study has developed a protocol to efficiently produce embryonic cultures of the sea cucumber, allowing for the use of genetic manipulations to dissect development.
SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2024
Baby baboon brain anatomy predicts which hand they will use to communicate
Researchers studied newborn baboon brain anatomy to predict future gestural communication handedness, finding that nearly 70% developed a right-hand preference. The study suggests a shared evolutionary heritage and potential clinical implications for brain surgery patients.
Fish out of water: How killifish embryos adapted their development
Researchers discovered that killifish early embryogenesis differs from other fish species, with the embryo's body axis formed through self-organization rather than maternal pre-patterning. This adaptation allows the species to survive dry periods without accumulating damaged cells.
Babies use ‘helpless’ infant period to learn powerful foundation models, just like ChatGPT
Researchers found human infants use 'helpless' period to pre-train brain, leading to rapid learning and high performance, similar to machine learning models. This study challenges classic explanation for infant helplessness and could inspire next gen AI models.
SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2024
The importance of the paradise fish in evolutionary and behavioural genetics research
Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University sequenced and characterized the paradise fish genome, revealing a compact genetic material ideal for targeted genome editing experiments. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for studying evolutionary development and complex behaviors.
Unveiling how German cockroaches came to live with humans
Researchers discovered that German cockroaches originated from Asian cockroaches approximately 2,100 years ago. The species adapted to human-built environments, leading to a dependence on living inside manmade structures. This evolution has enabled the cockroaches to thrive globally and develop resistance to insecticides.
SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2024
Investigating the origin of circatidal rhythms in freshwater snails
Researchers found that snails from tidal areas developed stronger circatidal rhythms compared to those in nontidal regions. The study suggests that environmental adaptations can influence the expression of genes controlled by biological clocks, leading to potential changes in physiological processes.
Evolutionary genomics: Consequences of biodiverse reproductive systems
A new Research Training Group will investigate the evolution of nuclear genomes in organisms using different forms of reproduction, including asexual and sexual reproduction. The group aims to better understand the dominance of sexual reproduction in nature through empirical analysis of changing and evolving genomes.
Exploring diversity in cell division
Scientists have discovered that different modes of cell division used by animals and fungi may have evolved to support diverse life cycles. A study using Ichthyosporea as a model found that certain species use closed mitosis while others use open mitosis, shedding light on the evolutionary origins of these processes.
How and why different cell division strategies evolve
The study explores how different cell division strategies have evolved across organisms, finding a link between life cycle stages and mitotic strategies. Species with multinucleate stages tend to use closed mitosis, while those with mononucleate stages employ open mitosis.
Some mice may owe their monogamy to a newly evolved type of cell
Scientists discovered a new type of cell that promotes nurturing behavior in mice, which is also present in humans and has been linked to increased parental care. The study suggests that this newly evolved cell type may be responsible for the monogamous behavior of oldfield mice.
Discovery of the first ancestors of scorpions, spiders and horseshoe crabs
Researchers identify fossil from Fezouata Shale as ancestor of modern arthropods, solving long-standing paleontological mystery. The discovery fills a gap in the evolutionary tree of life and provides insights into early chelicerate evolution.
NSF awards $630,000 to study teeth of non-human primates
Researchers will use high-resolution scans and data analysis to investigate the influence of genes and environment on tooth morphology in two primate species. The study aims to advance bioanthropological practice and provide a comprehensive understanding of dental genetic architecture.
Chimps learn and improve tool-using skills even as adults
A study found that adult chimpanzees continue to learn and refine their tool-using skills well into adulthood, suggesting a prolonged learning capacity is key to the evolution of complex tool use in chimps and humans. Chimpanzees developed motor skills for handling sticks by age six, but continued to hone techniques until age 15.
Genomes of “star algae” shed light on origin of plants
Researchers have generated complete genome data for four filamentous 'star algae' species, revealing overabundances of signalling genes and environmental response factors that underpin molecular mechanisms shaping plant bodies. The findings provide insights into the origins of land plants and their ability to adapt to environments.
Study reveals cancer vulnerabilities in popular dog breeds
A University of California - Riverside study finds that medium-sized dogs have a higher risk of developing cancer than larger or smaller breeds. The multistage model of cancer acquisition supports this finding, suggesting that size is a major risk factor for cancer.
Illuminating Darwin's 'abominable mystery'— Vast DNA tree of life for plants revealed
A recent study published in Nature reveals a vast DNA tree of life for flowering plants, providing insights into their evolutionary history. The analysis of over 9,500 plant species reveals the rapid development of diversity in ancient times, with key findings supporting the plastid-based phylogenetic classification of angiosperms.
These jacks-of-all-trades are masters, too: Yeast study helps answer age-old biology question
Researchers mapped over 1,000 yeast species to understand their genetic blueprints and evolutionary history. The results suggest that internal factors are the primary drivers of variation in a yeast's ability to eat different foods.