Predicting evolutionary potential. I. Predicting the evolution of a lactose-PTS system in Escherichia coli

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Microbial genetics
• Systems biology

Background:

• Genomes encode potential for novel functions enabling adaptation.
• Experimental evolution studies novel functions but has not predicted outcomes.
• Predicting evolutionary trajectories of gene function is a key challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a model system for predicting the evolution of novel functions.
• To assess the utility of sequence-based phylogenetic inference and biochemical activity in predicting gene evolution.
• To investigate the evolution of a lactose metabolism pathway in Escherichia coli.

Main Methods:

• Developed a model system using Escherichia coli.
• Focused on the evolution of a lactose PTS transport system and phospho-beta-galactosidase hydrolase system.
• Utilized sequence-based phylogenetic inference and biochemical activity data as predictive measures.

Main Results:

• Both phylogenetic inference and biochemical data predict cryptic celABC genes evolving into a lactose PTS transport system.
• Phylogenetic inference suggests bglA evolving into phospho-beta-galactosidase.
• Biochemical data suggests cryptic bglB evolving into phospho-beta-galactosidase.

Conclusions:

• The study presents a predictive model for novel function evolution.
• Different data types (phylogenetic vs. biochemical) can yield differing predictions for specific gene evolution.
• The findings contribute to understanding the predictability of evolutionary processes.