Primitive microbe offers model for evolution of animals
Scientists discovered a receptor tyrosine kinase in single-celled choanoflagellates, a group of protists with characteristics similar to those of multicellular animals. The finding provides strong support for the hypothesis that choanoflagellates are closely related to metazoans and may represent modern examples of animal ancestors.
SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2001