Scientists investigated the changes in DNA that shaped life and discovered the secret of evolution.
According to IsnaA new study led by the Roslin Institute seeks to unravel the mysteries behind a powerful genetic phenomenon known as “whole genome duplication” that has played an important role in the evolution of many species.
This process involves complete replication of the organism’s DNA, resulting in four sets of chromosomes instead of the normal two.
Over millions of years, these duplicated genomes can return to number two, but not before allowing genes to diversify and develop new functions, according to AI.
The research team believes that this mechanism has fostered the incredible complexity and diversity seen in plants, animals and other organisms throughout evolutionary history.
Cracking the code of evolution
Funded with £5.3 million over four years, this international research initiative involves researchers from several prestigious institutions including the University of Bath, Edinburgh’s Faculty of Life Sciences and the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
The study will analyze genetic data from a variety of species, including fish, plants, fungi and single-celled organisms.
“Whole-genome duplication” provides a fundamental evolutionary advantage, allowing genes to take on new roles, potentially leading to the emergence of unique traits and adaptations.
Professor Dan Macqueen, the leader of this project, emphasizes the importance of these reproductions in shaping the course of life on our planet and says: Whole-genome duplication is a central but often misunderstood aspect of the evolutionary narrative for many species. Our goal is to reveal important insights into how these events affect life on Earth.
Dr. James Clark from the University of Bath is overseeing the plant aspect of the project. The aim of his research is to map the pathways of genome evolution in plants after reproduction.
Changing DNA and changing the shape of life
Dr. James Clarke explained: Plant genomes double more than animal genomes. We believe that this process, called rediploidization, has contributed significantly to the development of various plant forms, including flowers, and diversity in vibrant plant groups such as grasses.
Dr. Clarke is also interested in quantifying how whole-genome duplication may be related to species diversity.
He added: “By characterizing the instances of genome duplication and the subsequent recombination process, we hope to determine whether these events have led to the increase of species or the emergence of new plant forms.”
Professor Mark Blaxter from the Wellcome Sanger Institute points out the connection between the duplication of the whole genome and human evolution. He said: The analysis of the human genome shows that our ancestors experienced not only one, but two rounds of whole genome duplication.
He added: These events most likely provided the necessary genetic diversity for significant evolutionary advances. We now know that this doubling of genetic material is a common occurrence in all life forms.
The project will use advanced genomic data and advanced sequencing technologies to investigate the significance of these duplication events across the evolutionary tree.
Professor Blaxter explained: “This new BBSRC (Biological Sciences and Technology Research Council) award will allow us to use our exceptional genome sequencing capabilities at the Wellcome Sanger Institute to provide reference genomes for critical species.”
He added: This fundamental work is critical to understanding the patterns and processes associated with genome duplication and builds on our wider efforts in the Darwin Tree of Life project, which aims to sequence all species in the UK and Ireland.
As researchers embark on this ambitious mission to understand the implications of genome-wide replication, they hope to shed light on the rich tapestry of evolutionary history and the complex processes that have shaped life.
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