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The choice of model organisms in evo-devo
Ronald A Jenner1, Matthew A Wills
1Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK. rj223@bath.ac.uk
Nature Reviews. Genetics
|March 7, 2007
Summary
Choosing new model organisms is essential for a balanced view of evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo). This study addresses the challenge of selecting optimal criteria for these crucial selections, considering resource limitations.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary developmental biology
- Genomics
- Comparative biology
Background:
- The field of evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo) heavily relies on model organisms.
- Concerns exist that the current selection of model organisms may present a biased perspective on the role of development in evolution.
- A broader and more representative sample of organisms is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the need for a more balanced understanding in evo-devo.
- To identify and evaluate criteria for selecting new model organisms.
- To guide the judicious selection of model organisms within resource constraints.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on current model organisms and evo-devo research.
- Analysis of criteria used in model organism selection.
- Framework development for evaluating potential new model organisms.
Main Results:
- Identification of key criteria for model organism selection, including developmental diversity, genetic tractability, and ecological relevance.
- Assessment of biases associated with traditional model organism choices.
- Proposal of a systematic approach to selecting novel model organisms.
Conclusions:
- The strategic selection of diverse model organisms is critical for advancing evo-devo research.
- Establishing clear criteria can mitigate bias and optimize resource allocation in organism selection.
- Future evo-devo studies will benefit from a more inclusive and representative set of model systems.
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