The zootype concept provides a framework for understanding conserved developmental genes.
Hox genes play a crucial role in animal body plan development and evolution.
Purpose:
To propose a novel hypothesis on the primordial function of zootype genes.
To investigate the role of zootype genes in neuronal network formation and axon pathway specificity in bilaterians.
Summary:
This hypothesis posits that zootype genes primarily function to establish neuronal networks by regulating axon pathway specificity in bilaterian animals.
This proposed function is considered both the primary role in development and the primitive function in evolution.
The hypothesis is examined in light of current knowledge regarding Hox genes, including their evolution, genomic organization, expression, and targets.
Impact:
This research could redefine our understanding of early gene functions in animal evolution.
It offers a new perspective on the developmental roles of zootype and Hox genes in establishing neural architecture.