Evolutionary Genetics

Sizing up fern genomes

Researchers at UNH and Cornell discovered that Salvinia ferns have dynamic genomes linked to reproduction differences. The study reveals the role of chromosome fissions and fusions in shaping their genome size and structure.

Rings of power – how bacteria use circadian clocks to colonise their world

Research reveals bacteria rely on circadian clocks to organize colonies, controlling gene expression and pattern formation. The discovery has important implications for understanding bacterial ecology and improving plant growth.

Neandertals in North-Western Europe in focus

A new genetic study provides the most detailed picture to date of late Neandertal diversity in North-Western Europe. The researchers found that these Neandertals were part of a larger and more well-connected regional population, unlike previously seen in Siberia.

Gene swapping helped build the planet's decomposers

Researchers have found that horizontal gene transfer contributed to the repeated evolution of fungi-like, absorption-feeding life across eukaryotes. The study identified 166 cases where genes were transferred between four groups of eukaryotes, including Fungi and Pseudofungi.

Ancient genomes reveal the unique history of the extinct cave lion

A new study on ancient genomes reveals that the extinct cave lion had a highly distinct evolutionary lineage, separating from modern lions over 1.5 million years ago. The research found evidence of interbreeding between cave and modern lions across tens of thousands of years, linked to past climate changes.

From flat moss to forests and flowers: New discovery may explain how plants conquered land

Researchers identify previously unknown protein RAK1, crucial for three-dimensional growth and division in moss, a step towards understanding plant colonization of land. The study provides new insight into fundamental mechanisms underlying plant growth and evolution.

Lost in an orange blur

A study by Kyoto University researchers found that the bright orange tail of tadpoles serves as a lure to distract predators, allowing them to avoid more vulnerable parts of their body. The team observed that dragonfly nymphs were more likely to attack the tails than other body parts.

Scientists reveal disease genes from reconstruction of ancestor to all complex life

Researchers reconstructed the most detailed map of molecular machines that carried out life's functions in an ancient ancestor, revealing hundreds of new genes associated with human diseases. The study confirmed links between three rare disorders and identified potential targets for treating other diseases.

New models enable better therapies against primary sclerosing cholangitis

Recent advancements in animal models, organoid models, and bioengineered organoids have provided new tools for studying primary sclerosing cholangitis. These models replicate the effects of bile retention and inflammation, enabling studies of disease mechanisms, drug screening, and preclinical evaluation.

How the Atlantic herring adapted to the brackish water of the Baltic Sea

A new study reveals that four specific genes are crucial for the Atlantic herring's adaptation to low salinity in the Baltic Sea. The genes, expressed in sperm, eggs, and early embryos, enable the fish to reproduce successfully in brackish water.

Old plant populations offer new clues to climate resilience

How a strange fruit fly became a bloodthirsty underwater hunter

Researchers at Lund University mapped the genome of Drosophila enhydrobia, a carnivorous fruit fly that lives entirely underwater in African streams. The study shows clear genetic adaptations to its unusual lifestyle, highlighting the importance of natural history museums for understanding biodiversity and evolution.

Early life on Earth relied on a surprisingly scarce metal

A new study reveals that 3.4 billion years ago, life on Earth used biochemical processes reliant on the metal molybdenum, which is scarce in its environment. Molybdenum speeds up chemical reactions essential for life, enabling organisms to survive without it, but at a slower rate.

New AI model reads DNA sequences to reconstruct ancestry

The new AI model uses genetic mutation patterns to trace ancestral relationships between species, including humans and mosquitoes. The tool can predict when gene pairs last shared a common ancestor and is faster than traditional statistical methods.

In mice, viruses gain virulence in some individuals, depending on genetics and sex

Research led by University of Utah biologists shows that host genetics and sex influence how influenza viruses evolve. Female mice from a specific strain exhibit accelerated virulence gains compared to male mice.

Two whale groups separated by seas—but not by genes, study finds

The Mediterranean fin whale population is found to be genetically connected to North Atlantic populations, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding highlights the need for reevaluation of conservation strategies and increased connectivity between populations.

Botany’s answer to Darwin’s finches shows evolution in real time

Researchers studied evolution of Scalesia genus, finding lobed leaves evolved through multiple genetic pathways. The study highlights the flexibility and creativity of evolution, with new species forming and populations showing large genetic differences.

A philosopher’s serpent: new grass-green pitviper discovered in China’s Giant Panda National Park

A newly discovered pitviper, Trimeresurus lii, is found to be a distinct lineage with unique physical characteristics and venomous properties. The species was previously mistaken for the bamboo pitviper due to similar green appearance.

Turning four into two: How duplicated genomes become diploid again

A Chinese-German research team has reconstructed the genetic processes of re-diploidization in snow carps, revealing the fusion of chromosomes as the first stage. This process, which occurred relatively recently in evolutionary terms, led to an initial fourfold set of chromosomes that eventually reduced to two through asynchronous fusi...

Unraveling the genomic roots of Indigenous peoples

The study identified over a million genetic variants, revealing unique diversity and adaptations to environments. Ancient DNA and geographic data also provide insights into the movements and migrations of Native American populations.

Elephant genomes reveal a past of continental connectivity and a future of increasing isolation

African elephants' genetic history shows they once moved across large distances, exchanging genes throughout the continent. However, current patchy habitats and human activities have led to genetic consequences of isolation, affecting conservation approaches.

How soil microbes adapt to life in lakes

Researchers found two strategies used by bacteria to colonize new habitats: acquiring new traits and reducing genome size. This study sheds light on the evolutionary biology of soil microbes, revealing unexpected results about their adaptation to freshwater environments.

New study uncovers surprises in urban Peruvians

Researchers uncover distinct patterns of Indigenous and European ancestry in urban Peruvian population, challenging common categorizations. The study's findings hold significant implications for precision medicine and health disparities among Latin Americans.

Identifying the limits of protein evolution

A large-scale computational study found that point-of-origin effects significantly influence protein diversification, with relatively small divergence seen from ancestral proteins. The research reinforces existing theories on initial protein formation and highlights the limitations of modern AI protein design methods.

100 million years ago, an ‘evolutionary fuse’ was lit in the deep ocean, sparking squid diversification

A new study from Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) identifies the 'long fuse' that led to the diversification of modern squid and cuttlefish. The research suggests that these animals originated in the deep ocean around 100 million years ago, sparking rapid evolution after a mass extinction event.

Evolution in fast-forward: How thale cress adapts – or goes extinct

Researchers tracked genetic changes in Arabidopsis thaliana across 30 sites over five years, finding most populations adapted to local environmental conditions. However, some populations went extinct due to genetic drift, highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Cactus catalogue could help plant’s prickly problem

A new open access database of cactus ecology and evolution could help scientists and conservationists save species from the brink. The CactEcoDB offers an unprecedented window into the evolution, ecology and conservation needs of one of the world's most distinctive and endangered plant families.

New rare bird species discovered in Japan

A new species of leaf warbler, Tokara Leaf Warbler, has been discovered in Japan through DNA analysis. The species is found only on two island groups and is considered vulnerable due to low genetic diversity and potential population declines.

Decoding intercontinental disjunction: Phylogenomic study unravels evolutionary history of hylodesmum

A comprehensive study using integrated genomic approach resolves Hylodesmum's taxonomic uncertainties and EA-ENA disjunct distribution. The study confirms Verdesmum as nested within Hylodesmum and reveals a complex bidirectional dispersal pattern likely facilitated by mammal-mediated epizoochory.

Selfish sperm hijack genetic gatekeeper to kill healthy rivals

A new study reveals that selfish chromosomes exploit the Overdrive gene to destroy rival sperm, boosting their chances of passing into the next generation. The gene acts as a quality control checkpoint during sperm development, normally eliminating abnormal sperm cells, but selfish chromosomes hijack the system to kill competitors.

Newly transferred jumping genes drive lethal mutations

A new study from Duke University found that most lethal mutations in wild fruit flies are driven by newly transferred jumping genes, not small DNA errors. The research reveals a hidden layer of evolution where lethal mutations persist in generations due to the impact of transposable elements.

How birds achieve sweet success

Researchers found that birds adapting to sugar-rich diets evolved both shared and unique genetic changes, affecting genes controlling blood pressure, heart rhythm, and insulin signaling. These findings hold promise for understanding metabolic diseases like diabetes and may lead to new therapeutic targets.

How ancient attraction shaped the human genome

Researchers found that long-standing mating preferences led to sex-biased interbreeding, resulting in the loss of Neanderthal DNA on X chromosomes. The study reveals a complex social history of human evolution, challenging the idea that survival of the fittest drove human migration.

Evolution: Ancient mosquitoes developed a taste for early hominins

The preference for feeding on humans among certain mosquito species evolved around 1.8 million years ago in response to the arrival of early hominins in Southeast Asia. This finding provides independent evidence supporting the limited fossil record of early hominin arrival in the region.

Could finger length provide vital clue to understanding human brain evolution?

A study of 225 newborns found that high prenatal oestrogen levels, indicated by long index fingers, are associated with large head circumference and increased brain size in boys. This could provide evidence for the positive influence of prenatal oestrogen on human brain evolution

A rapid evolutionary process provides Sudanese Copts with resistance to malaria

A study published in PNAS reveals that Sudanese Copts have acquired a genetic variant that protects them from contracting malaria after mixing with other Sudanese populations. The acquisition of this variant took place over 1,500 years and has led to an evolutionary adaptation to the disease.

Windows into the past: Genetic analysis of Deep Maniot Greeks reveals a unique genetic time capsule in the Balkans

A new study found that the people of Deep Mani represent one of the most genetically distinctive populations in Europe, with many lineages tracing back to the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman period. The research team discovered that present-day Deep Maniot men descend from a single male ancestor who lived in the 7th century CE.

Scientists solve the mystery of why termite kings and queens are monogamous

Researchers found that termites evolved from cockroach ancestors that became dependent on cooperation and food sharing within colonies. Monogamy and high relatedness were crucial for the evolution of complex social systems in termites, with genes involved in sperm motility being lost due to the absence of sperm competition.

Study maps the climate-related evolution of modern kangaroos and wallabies

A QUT-led study has found how increasing aridity and habitat variation led to the diversification of modern kangaroos and wallabies. The research reveals that these iconic Australian marsupials evolved in two major bursts over the past nine million years, with their expansion coinciding with the emergence of grasslands.

“Hulk lizard” knocks out ancient colour palette

A study led by Lund University reveals how a dominant wall lizard species has wiped out several color variants within its population. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 individuals and found that the aggressive 'Hulk' lizards have shifted the balance of colors, leaving only white throat colors remaining.

House sparrows in northern Norway can help us save other endangered animals

Researchers used genetic data from house sparrows to develop a statistical model that can predict traits in other species. The study found that making predictions across different populations works less well than within populations, but provided new insights for improving the technique.

Warblers borrow color-related genes from evolutionary neighbors, study finds

A new study found that wood warblers have borrowed color-related genes from neighboring species, leading to the evolution of diverse plumage colors. This gene exchange, known as introgression, occurred across multiple genera and is believed to have played a role in the group's rapid diversification.

Polar bears may be adapting to survive warmer climates, says study

A new study found that rising temperatures are driving changes in polar bear DNA, which may help them adapt to increasingly challenging environments. The researchers discovered that genes related to heat-stress, aging, and metabolism are behaving differently in polar bears living in southeastern Greenland.

Complex life developed earlier than previously thought, Nature study reveals

A recent Nature study reveals that complex life developed significantly earlier than previously thought, around 2.9 billion years ago. This challenges existing theories and proposes a new scenario for eukaryogenesis, where the nucleus and other internal structures evolved before mitochondria.

Ten-thousand-year-old genomes from southern Africa change picture of human evolution

A new study reveals that Homo sapiens evolved in southern Africa for at least 200,000 years, contradicting previous theories. The analysis of 28 ancient genomes found genetic adaptations that shaped the species and unique variants linked to kidney functions and cognitive evolution.

Becoming human in southern Africa: What ancient hunter-gatherer genomes reveal

Researchers analyzed DNA of 28 ancient southern Africans, finding 490 modern human-specific genetic variants, including immune system and kidney function genes. These adaptations may be related to human's water-retention and body-cooling system, giving special endurance.

Wild birds are driving the current U.S. bird flu outbreak

A study published in Nature found that wild birds, particularly ducks, geese, and swans, are driving the current US bird flu outbreak. The viruses were introduced to North America via migratory birds and have become better adapted to infect wild birds since 2020.

Variety of animals evolved similar genetics solutions to survive on land, study finds

A recent study from researchers at the University of Bristol and University of Barcelona found that animals from various lineages independently developed similar genetic adaptations to thrive on land. The research analyzed 154 genomes across 21 animal species and identified common genetic basis for transitioning from water to land.

Cancerous tumors less common in rapidly-evolving animals

A new study found that rapidly evolving animals, such as the Greater Kudu and Big Horn Sheep, have fewer cancerous tumors. In contrast, non-cancerous tumors showed no significant difference in prevalence across species. The research suggests that evolution built stronger cancer defenses in rapidly changing species.

Identification of the sex-determination gene in bees and ants

A team of researchers has identified a common sex-determining gene called ANTSR in both bees and ants, revealing a conserved mechanism that has been present for over 150 million years. This finding sheds light on the genetic basis of sex determination in these species and may have implications for bee conservation and breeding programs.

'Jumping genes’ help scientists resolve tree of life

Researchers at OIST develop a new method harnessing 'jumping genes' to recreate the termite tree of life, providing a template for solving ancient evolutionary mysteries. The study achieves similar accuracy to trees built from thousands of protein marker sequence alignments.

‘Broken’ genes a common factor in marsupial fur colour

Research from La Trobe University reveals 'broken' genes as a common factor in marsupial fur color. The study found missing DNA stretches disabling the Agouti Signalling Protein gene in black morph eastern quolls and Tasmanian devils, leading to unique coat colors.

Protection against winter vomiting bug spread with arrival of agriculture

Researchers found a genetic variant that protects against winter vomiting disease, which was introduced to Europe through early farmers around 6,000 BCE. The FUT2 gene variant is linked to an increased risk of stomach ulcers and gallstones, but provides full protection against the virus.

Study uncovers origins of urban human-biting mosquito, sheds light on uptick in West Nile virus spillover from birds to humans

Researchers from Princeton University uncover the origins of the human-biting mosquito Culex pipiens molestus, dating it back over 1,000 years to ancient agricultural societies in Egypt. The study reveals genetic links between bird-biting and human-biting mosquitoes, crucial for understanding West Nile virus transmission.

Gene mutations increase in puppies with older fathers

A recent study analyzed 390 parent-offspring trios to identify gene mutations that occur in the sperm or ovum, leading to de novo mutations. The results show a clear correlation between parental age and the number of new mutations in puppies, with higher paternal age increasing the risk.

Stowers Institute recruits renowned developmental and evolutionary biologist from HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus

David Stern, a Senior Group Leader at Janelia Research Campus, joins Stowers Institute to uncover new avenues of biology with enormous implications. His lab discovered 'bicycle proteins' that trick plants into growing protective homes for aphids, shedding light on the battle between plants and insects.

By studying yellow warbler, researchers hope to better understand response to rapid climate change in wild species

A new research paper from Colorado State University finds that precipitation levels are the key environmental factor influencing genetic variation in the warbler's beak, which is crucial for heat retention. The study reveals that birds struggling to adapt to climate change experience higher stress levels and population declines.

Stowers scientists identify the fusion point of Robertsonian chromosomes, hinting at how chromosomes evolve

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the precise location where human chromosomes break and recombine to form Robertsonian chromosomes. The study reveals that repetitive DNA sequences play a central role in genome organization and evolution, explaining how these rearrangements form and remain stable.

Partnership with Kenya's Turkana community helps scientists discover genes involved in adaptation to desert living

Researchers found genetic adaptations underlying survival in hot and dry environments, revealing how natural selection enabled the Turkana to thrive in extreme conditions. The study identified key genes, including STC1, that play vital roles in conserving water and protecting kidneys from waste.

Decoding the selfish gene, from evolutionary cheaters to disease control

Scientists have discovered how to potentially control harmful insect populations by studying a 'selfish gene' that manipulates inheritance. By understanding the molecular basis of this genetic mechanism, researchers believe they can identify novel methods to control certain insects that are globally significant pests and disease carriers.