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Lateral gene transfer in eukaryotes.
1Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Biomedical Center, Box 596, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden. Jan.Andersson@icm.uu.se
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|March 12, 2005
Summary
Lateral gene transfer, the movement of genes between species, is a key driver of evolution in prokaryotes and increasingly recognized in eukaryotes. This process significantly impacts eukaryotic genome evolution, especially in protists, influencing their adaptation and phylogeny.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Evolutionary Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Lateral gene transfer (LGT) is a well-established mechanism in prokaryotic genome evolution.
- Recent evidence suggests LGT also plays a significant role in eukaryotic genome evolution.
- The rates of LGT vary considerably across different eukaryotic groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and impact of lateral gene transfer in eukaryotic genome evolution.
- To compare LGT rates across diverse eukaryotic lineages.
- To understand the functional and evolutionary implications of LGT for eukaryotes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of genomic data from various eukaryotic taxa.
- Comparative genomics to identify horizontally transferred genes.
- Phylogenetic analyses to trace gene origins.
Main Results:
- Eukaryotes, particularly protists with phagotrophic lifestyles, exhibit significant rates of LGT, comparable to prokaryotes.
- Animals and fungi show limited evidence of LGT, with notable exceptions.
- Gene transfers from prokaryotes provide eukaryotes with new functions, aiding environmental adaptation.
- Intra-eukaryotic gene transfer occurs, notably in phagotrophic eukaryotes and plant lineages.
Conclusions:
- Lateral gene transfer is a crucial, albeit variable, factor in eukaryotic genome evolution.
- LGT contributes to the acquisition of novel traits and adaptation in eukaryotes.
- Understanding LGT is essential for eukaryotic genomic research, origin studies, and phylogeny.