Fuzzy yellow bats reveal evolutionary relationships in Kenya
Researchers used genetic analysis to sort bat species, revealing two new species in Kenya. The findings have implications for conservation and farming efforts.
Evolutionary Genetics
Articles tagged with Evolutionary Genetics
Deep in the fly brain, a clue to how evolution changes minds
Researchers found that evolutionary changes occur deep in the fly brain, in a small cluster of neurons controlling mating behavior. The study overturned long-held beliefs about how evolution ensures animals perpetuate their species.
Evolution of melanoma reveals opportunities for intervention
UCSF researchers identified key genetic changes that transform benign moles into malignant melanoma, including mutations in DNA regulatory genes. They used CRISPR to recreate the steps of melanoma evolution in lab cells, revealing new biomarkers and potential targeted therapies.
Bale monkeys living in different areas have very different DNA
A study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that Bale monkeys living in different habitats have distinct mitochondrial DNA profiles. The researchers discovered that populations from fragmented forests were more closely related to vervet and grivet monkeys than those from continuous forests, suggesting hybridization had occurred.
Frigid polar oceans, not balmy coral reefs, are species-formation hot spots
A recent study reveals that the fastest rates of species formation occur at high latitudes and in cold ocean waters, contradicting the long-held assumption that tropical environments are evolutionary hot spots. The research found that cool-water and polar ocean fishes formed new species twice as fast as average tropical fish.
Molecular 'fossils' reveal evolutionary history of descending testicles
The study analyzed 71 placental mammalian species and found that the genes RXFP2 and INSL3 were either lost or nonfunctional in four Afrotherian species, indicating a more recent origin of testicular retention. This suggests that molecular vestiges can be used to reconstruct evolutionary changes in body parts.
The odds of living to 110-plus level out -- once you hit 105
A study of nearly 4,000 extremely old Italians found that mortality rates plateau after 105 years old, with people between 105-109 having a 50/50 chance of dying within the year and an expected further life span of 1.5 years. The findings challenge previous research on a final cut-off point for human lifespan.
The evolution of testes
The study uses DNA sequence data to analyze the evolution of testes in mammals, finding that African species lack the testicular descent process due to non-functional genes. This suggests that the testicular descent process was ancestral and lost in these species.
What makes dogs man's best friend?
A recent study has identified 246 candidate genes involved in dog domestication, which influence brain function, development, and behavior. The research suggests that changes in these genes may have contributed to the evolution of dogs from wolves, making them more active during the day rather than at night.
Tropical 'banana eater' birds lived in North America 52 million years ago
A fossil of a banana-eating bird ancestor was found in North America, dating back 52 million years. The discovery suggests these birds once thrived outside the tropics, with long legs indicating they may have been ground-dwelling.
Novel genetic method improves efficiency of enzyme
Researchers developed a new genetic engineering technique to improve an enzyme's ability to break down biomass. The EASy method enables accelerated evolution of desirable traits in microorganisms, leading to more efficient conversion of lignin into fuels and plastics.
UMass Amherst biologists identify a genetic mechanism in the evolution of novel traits
Researchers found that expanding gene-regulatory modules can give rise to new traits, such as the enlarged snout in African cichlid fishes. The study implicated key genetic pathways, including the Tgfβ-Scx pathway and Adam12 protein.
RNA changes aided sunflower's rapid evolutionary transformation, domestication
A new study reveals that RNA changes played a crucial role in the domestication of sunflowers, allowing for rapid evolutionary transformation over 5,000 years. The researchers identified key genes and regulatory mechanisms involved in alternative splicing, which created useful efficiencies but also introduced variation.
New research identifies how blind cavefish lose their eyes
A new study led by the NIH identified roles for over two dozen genes shared with humans, many linked to human eye disorders, in causing cavefish blindness. Epigenetic regulation mechanisms have been found to play a key role in this process.
The genes from Icelanda's first settlers reveal the origin of their population in detail
A study analyzing ancient Icelandic genomes of 25 individuals from the island's colonization period (870-930) found that present-day Icelanders have a 70% Norwegian genetic fingerprint. The analysis also revealed a gender bias in the population, with men of Scandinavian origin having more offspring than women of Celtic origin.
How to code a functional molecular machine?
A team of researchers has developed a model that simulates protein evolution, revealing how evolving protein components can give rise to dynamic and efficient molecular machines. The model shows that flexibility allows proteins to bind effectively to other molecules.
NIH researchers identify how eye loss occurs in blind cavefish
Cavefish have higher levels of DNA methyltransferase DNMT3B in developing eyes, leading to epigenetic suppression of eye development genes. This process differs from genetic mutations, which are permanent changes in the DNA code.
A genetic algorithm predicts the vertical growth of cities
A genetic algorithm developed by Spanish researchers accurately predicted the vertical growth of Tokyo's Minato Ward, predicting the number and locations of future skyscrapers. The study suggests that evolutionary computation can identify hidden patterns in urban systems and predict possible city evolution scenarios.
Mongooses inherit behavior from role models rather than parents
Mongooses learn lifelong habits from escort animals rather than their genetic parents, according to University of Exeter researchers. This cultural inheritance helps maintain diversity within groups, contradicting expectations that it would lead to uniformity.
Genetic diversity helps protect against disease
A team of scientists discovered that genetic diversity in host populations slows down the adaptation of parasites, increasing their resistance to disease. This finding has significant implications for ecosystem research and the preservation of biological diversity.
Embryonic gene regulation through mechanical forces
Researchers found that mechanical cues contribute to the regulation of gene expression during early development. External pressure can activate or restore the expression of a crucial developmental regulator gene, brachyury. This mechanism is conserved across species, including zebrafish and fruitflies.
The dark side of our genes -- healthy aging in modern times
A study found that genes beneficial in youth but detrimental in old age may contribute to the rise of chronic diseases in modern societies. The review suggests that natural selection may be changing course, but more research is needed to fully understand its impact on human health.
Insect gene allows reproductive organs to cope with harmful bacteria
Researchers discovered a genetic signature in Nasonia wasps that suppresses Wolbachia bacteria transmission to eggs, giving the wasp an evolutionary benefit. This finding provides insight into how animals may evolve to control their transmitted bacteria, highlighting unique defense strategies across species.
Cleveland Clinic receives $2 million grant to study cancer genetics and radiation effectiveness
Researchers aim to identify genetic markers that can predict tumor response to radiation therapy, leading to more personalized treatment approaches. The goal is to improve treatment responses, reduce toxicity, and enhance quality of life for cancer survivors.
Genetic markers and database illuminate fish evolution
A comprehensive genomic database for fishes has resolved evolutionary relationships among 131 species, including tuna and seahorses, and identified genetic markers to track divergence through time.
Using MRSA's strength against it
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified how MRSA absorbs human fatty acids to resist antimicrobials, providing a new target for developing more effective treatments. By inhibiting the cell membrane's ability to produce lipids, scientists may improve the efficacy of existing antibacterial agents like triclosan.
Microbes are savvy investors when contributing to the common good
In a breakthrough study, microbes have been found to act like savvy investors when contributing to the common good. They adjust their investment strategy depending on how much they have at stake, maximizing returns in groups with mostly relatives and exploiting contributions in outnumbered groups.
The headache of adapting to the cold
Researchers discovered a genetic variant associated with migraine headaches that is more common in people living in colder climates and higher latitudes. This variant may have helped early humans adapt to the cold, contributing to its high frequency in European populations and higher prevalence among individuals suffering from migraines.
Protect forest elephants to conserve ecosystems, not DNA
Forest elephant populations across Central Africa exhibit genetic similarity, highlighting the importance of conserving this critically endangered species. Conservation efforts can save many species by protecting one, as forest elephants play a vital role in maintaining plant diversity and ecosystem balance.
Genetic transcription 'pause' is focus of NASA grant
Researchers aim to determine when the pause in transcription first appeared in evolution by studying various organisms and plant life. They hope this investigation will help narrow down the origin of the pause, shedding light on how complicated life arose on Earth.
Scientists identify genetic catalysts that speed up evolution of antibiotic resistance
Researchers at Oxford University have identified a genetic catalyst, ampR, that accelerates the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The study found that species carrying the ampR gene evolve resistance at a higher rate than those lacking it.
Did last ice age affect breastfeeding in Native Americans?
A genetic mutation that increased mammary duct branching may have provided more vitamin D to infants, helping them survive in the far north. Shovel-shaped incisors became more frequent among Native Americans due to the same genetic factor, highlighting the importance of the mother-infant bond.
Rochester scientists discover gene controlling genetic recombination rates
Researchers found a gene, MEI-218, that controls the rate of recombination in two species of fruit flies. The discovery sheds light on how crossover rates have evolved to balance benefits and risks, with implications for understanding genetic diversity and evolutionary adaptation.
Great Barrier Reef corals can survive global warming for another century
Researchers found that Great Barrier Reef corals have enough genetic variation to adapt to rising ocean temperatures, allowing them to potentially survive for at least another century. This offers a glimmer of hope for conservation efforts, but also highlights the need to take action against global warming.
Marine fish won an evolutionary lottery 66 million years ago, UCLA biologists report
A UCLA-led team of biologists reports that a six-mile-wide asteroid crash 66 million years ago created an enormous evolutionary void for marine fish to diversify. Today's rich biodiversity among marine fish shows the fingerprints of this mass extinction, with six major acanthomorph groups producing almost all marine fish diversity.
Study identifies more than a hundred new genes that determine hair color
A team of scientists discovered 124 genes involved in determining human hair color variation, explaining a substantial fraction of hair color variation and heritability. The new findings have implications for conditions linked to pigmentation, such as skin, testicular, prostate, and ovarian cancers.
Transfer learning meets livestock genomics
Researchers at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a computational method predicting harmful mutations in mammalian species. This approach enables classification of damaging mutations in other mammals, facilitating optimized animal breeding programs.
Viruses can evolve in parallel in related species
Researchers found parallel genetic changes in closely related species, making them vulnerable to viral jumps. This raises concerns about emerging infectious diseases like HIV and SARS coronavirus.
Mutant ferrets offer clues to human brain size
Researchers created a genetically engineered ferret with a mutation linked to abnormally small human brain size, revealing an evolutionary mechanism governing cerebral cortical size. The study suggests that genes responsible for centriole function played a crucial role in the expansion of human brains over time.
New method prioritizes species for conservation in the face of uncertainty
A new method prioritizes species for conservation efforts in the face of uncertainty. The approach overcomes data limitations to identify phylogenetic conservation priorities, producing accurate estimates of evolutionary distinctness scores.
How life generates new forms
A recent study found that gene regulation by protein transcription factors is the most likely mechanism for generating evolutionary change. This discovery challenges previous assumptions and sheds light on the process of evolutionary adaptation.
The blue whale genome reveals the animals' extraordinary evolutionary history
The study found that rorquals have been hybridizing during their evolutionary history, with genetic barriers between species seemingly non-existent. This rare phenomenon, called sympatric speciation, has significant implications for our understanding of biodiversity.
Virus found to adapt through newly discovered path of evolution
Researchers discovered a new path of evolution that enables viruses to quickly adapt to their environment and infect new host targets. This phenomenon could lead to new insights into preventing the emergence of new diseases.
Spiders and scorpions have co-opted leg genes to build their heads
Researchers Emily Setton and Prashant Sharma discovered that spiders and scorpions co-opted leg genes to build their heads. This genetic adaptation allows scientists to trace the evolutionary history of these animals, revealing a complex web of genetic mechanisms underlying their diversity.
Sweet surprise
Researchers studying cavefish found that they can live healthy lives with high blood sugar levels, contrary to what is seen in humans. The fish have insulin resistance but no apparent harm from chronically elevated glucose levels.
Genetic analysis uncovers the evolutionary origin of vertebrate limbs
Researchers uncover evolutionary origin of vertebrate limbs by analyzing genetic elements first used to develop dorsal fins in ancient fish. The findings suggest that these elements were later redeployed to produce paired appendages, like arms and legs.
Predicting an insect community structure based on genomic variation in a tree species
A study by Hokkaido University researchers predicts insect community structure by analyzing genomic variation in a tree species. The findings show that genetic distance between alders is the most important predictor of arthropod communities, providing clues for effective ecosystem preservation plans.
Study sheds light on the genetic origins of the two sexes
A new study has identified the earliest stages of evolution where distinct sperm and egg cell types first emerged from a simpler ancestral mating system. The research found that the sex-determining region associated with male-female differentiation in algae is surprisingly small, consisting of only one gene called MID.
Ancient DNA reveals genetic replacement despite language continuity in the South Pacific
A new study using ancient and modern genome-wide data found that Papuan ancestry replaced early Austronesian-Lapita population in Vanuatu, yet the original Austronesian languages persisted. This provides a unique case of demographic history where genetic ancestry but not language was replaced.
Why are some mushrooms 'magic?'
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that psychedelic mushrooms developed psilocybin to interfere with insect neurotransmitters, lowering the chances of being eaten. This evolutionary explanation could guide medical science in finding novel treatments for neurological disorders.
Evolution plays many tricks against large-scale bioproduction
A new ultra-deep DNA sequencing approach uncovers competing mechanisms of evolution as a threat to efficient large-scale fermentation. Evolution constrains bioproduction, leading to yield decrease and productivity issues.
Scientists create 'Evolutionwatch' for plants
Researchers used historic and modern plant genomes to measure the rate of evolution in a wild plant. They found that Arabidopsis had been introduced to North America by Europeans around 1600, with new mutations appearing over the past 400 years. These findings provide insights into the genetic paradox of invasion.
Ancient-DNA researchers surpass the 1,000-genome milestone
A recent study of ancient DNA has found that the Bell Beaker culture in Europe comprised two genetically distinct populations, challenging previous assumptions about their spread. The research also revealed a significant genetic shift, introducing variants for paler skin and lighter-colored eyes, as well as genes for digesting lactose.
Copper Age Iberians 'exported' their culture -- but not their genes -- all over Europe
A genomic study reveals that the Beaker culture spread throughout Europe through cultural diffusion, replacing around 90% of populations in areas like Great Britain. The study shows no evidence of large-scale genetic migration from Iberia to Central and Western Europe.
As climate changes, so could the genes of the Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly
Researchers found the hybrid zone had moved north nearly 40 kilometers due to warming, impacting genetic composition and potential for gene flow. Climate change may lead to a loss of genetic variation, threatening population sizes of individual species.
Plants colonized the earth 100 million years earlier than previously thought
New research reveals that plants originated 100 million years earlier than previously believed, with ancient plant fossils now estimated to be around 320 million years old. This discovery challenges existing models of atmospheric change and highlights the critical role of early plant life in shaping Earth's climate.
At last, butterflies get a bigger, better evolutionary tree
A comprehensive map of butterfly evolution has been created using a 35-fold increase in genetic data, revealing key relationships between species and classification units. The study confirms swallowtails are a sister group to all other butterflies, while blues are nested within hairstreaks.
Interdisciplinary approach yields new insights into human evolution
A new themed issue of the Royal Society journal explores human evolution through an interdisciplinary lens, combining biological, anthropological and cultural perspectives. Researchers found that English speakers' regional dialects influenced Sranan creole's development, shedding light on events in human history with few other traces.
Partner selection in lemurs
Red-fronted lemurs demonstrate ability to differentiate between conspecifics and closely related sister species based on facial pattern and color variations. The study found that females showed a stronger reaction than males, indicating visual and olfactory signals play crucial role in species recognition.
Despite odds, fish species that bypasses sexual reproduction is thriving
The Amazon molly's unique reproductive method has allowed it to thrive for millennia, defying expectations that asexual reproduction would lead to extinction. The fish's hybrid genome and high genetic diversity have enabled it to adapt to environmental changes without accumulating harmful mutations.