Articles tagged with Evolutionary Developmental Biology
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A team of researchers has identified a key gene, Emx2, that helps explain the evolution of gliding in marsupials. The study found that accelerated evolution near this gene and its associated enhancers drives the development of patagium, the thin skin membrane allowing gliding.
A study found that agastric fish lack specific genes required for gastric functions, such as slc26a9, kcne2, cldn18a, and vsig1. These findings suggest a genotypic convergence where gene losses correlate with stomach loss in various fish lineages.
Researchers found that macroalgae acquired new genes for cell adhesion, differentiation, communication, and transport from viruses, which played a critical role in their evolution to multicellularity. The study provides valuable genomic resources for further studies on the biology of macroalgae.
A Mediterranean marine worm has evolved massive eyes, rivaling those of mammals, to see in the dark. The worms use their exceptional vision to detect bioluminescent signals and may have a secret language through light communication.
A new analysis of grackle feeding behaviour suggests that male grackles are more efficient foragers in uncertain environments, relying on risk-sensitive learning to navigate chaotic settings. This strategy allows them to dominate urban environments and lead their species' invasion.
Researchers sequenced RNA transcripts from 18 primate brains to map every expressed gene, revealing remarkable variation in humans and chimps compared to other primates. The study identifies specific genes for further research and sheds light on human neurodegenerative disorders.
A study led by Leopold Eckhart found that the genetic programme controlling keratinized claws originated in a common ancestor of humans and frogs. The research team used the tropical clawed frog as an experimental model and discovered that important hair components, including keratins, share similarities with human hair.
A team of scientists at Pohang University of Science & Technology uncovered the molecular mechanism responsible for crossover interference during meiosis, a biological process that generates genetically diverse reproductive cells. The findings have significant implications for breeding and cultivating crops with specific desired traits.
Researchers at Salk Institute unveil an RNA enzyme that can accurately copy functional RNA strands and allow new variants to emerge over time. This discovery brings scientists closer to producing autonomous RNA life in the laboratory, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the origins of life.
Researchers report that Golgi ribbons are present in non-vertebrates like mollusks and earthworms, suggesting a fundamental function beyond vertebrate specificity. The team's findings indicate that Golgi ribbons might play a role in cell differentiation during embryogenesis.
Researchers have discovered that plant immune receptors and growth-related proteins share a common evolutionary ancestry, allowing for the creation of hybrid receptors with enhanced functionality. This breakthrough could lead to the development of disease-resistant crops by isolating and engineering immune receptors from various plants.
Sponges exhibit coordinated movements despite lacking muscles or neurons, attributed to relaxation of stress fibres triggered by an evolutionarily ancient inflammation-like mechanism. This process also regulates human blood vessel contraction, influencing blood pressure.
Researchers have sequenced the first genome of myxini, a large group of vertebrates without a reference genome, revealing insights into evolutionary history and genomic duplications. The study provides new perspectives on the origins of complex vertebrate structures.
A UC Riverside research project will focus on changes in the gene network that specify early intestinal precursor cells in nematodes like Pristionchus pacificus. Gene networks describe how genes turn each other on and off, and changes in these networks can lead to diseases such as cancer.
Researchers from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and their French partners receive funding for two distinctive biology projects through the ANR-DFG program. The EVOMET project investigates plant metabolism, while the NeuroDevFunc project explores how fruit flies process visual motion generated by self-movement.
A recent study has identified five new groups within the TAS1R family, revealing diversity in taste receptors among vertebrates. The research found that some genes evolved from a common ancestor, while others were lost in different lineages.
Researchers analyzed Aqp10s in eight bony vertebrate species to understand the evolutionary timeline of diminished boric acid and urea transportation. The study found that Aqp10.2 in ray-finned fishes restricts urea and boric acid passage, suggesting a loss of solute transport through evolution.
A team of researchers developed a theoretical framework that can reproduce and predict the patterns associated with gastrulation in a chicken embryo. Small changes in cell parameters and behavior can have a dramatic impact on the resulting gastrulation patterns, which are seen in other species such as frogs, fish, and chameleons.
Researchers found that Arctic seals' unique nasal structures allow them to conserve 94% of water during breathing, giving them an evolutionary advantage in the Arctic. The study's findings suggest that similar adaptations could be beneficial for other species in diverse environments.
Researchers found that most cell types in the retina are ancient and conserved across species, indicating a complex retina in the last common ancestor of all mammals. The study suggests that some cell types have been remodeled or repurposed over time to adapt to different visual needs.
A new hypothesis suggests that fermentation of cached food provided a more accessible form of nourishment, fueling the growth of larger brains in human ancestors. This idea is supported by the fact that the human large intestine is proportionally smaller than other primates and fermented foods are found across cultures.
Researchers found that humans are born with brains at a typical development level for similar primate species, but grow much larger and more complex after birth. This challenges the prevailing understanding of evolutionary human brain development.
A new genomic study sheds light on the evolutionary innovation behind carnivorous Asian pitcher plants, suggesting that duplicated genomes may have enabled specialized carnivory and separate-sexed plants.
A study of ancient elephants suggests that moving into open land grazing helped develop their coiling and grasping trunks. This adaptation enabled some groups, like Platybelodon, to survive in greater numbers in open environments.
Researchers at the University of Konstanz developed an AI-powered method to objectively characterize embryonic development tempo and stages. The Twin Network trained on over 3 million zebrafish embryo images accurately identified developmental stages, temperature dependence, and malformations.
Scientists studied medial longitudinal arch of the foot, a key adaptation for efficient bipedal walking. They found variation in navicular bone morphology among flat-footed individuals and those with well-developed arches, suggesting inborn flat feet may be a normal variant.
Scientists observe rapid evolutionary changes in bacteria and viruses, leading to the emergence of complex ecological patterns. The study reveals nestedness and modularity as two prominent repeating patterns in bacterial-phage interactions.