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Related Experiment Videos

Lateral gene transfer in eukaryotes.

J O Andersson1

  • 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
PubMed
Summary
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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.

Related Experiment Videos

  • 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.