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The genome-centric concept: resynthesis of evolutionary theory
1Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. hhqheng@gmail.com
Summary
The genome-centric concept challenges the traditional gene-centric view in biology. This new framework explains evolutionary theory by focusing on genome context and interactions, not just individual genes.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Genomics
- Systems Biology
Background:
- The gene-centric concept, foundational to modern biology, faces challenges in explaining evolutionary theory.
- Gene-based research successes highlight limitations in the current gene-centric paradigm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address paradoxes within the gene-centric concept.
- To propose a genome-centric concept as a new theoretical framework for evolutionary biology.
- To resynthesize evolutionary theory by integrating complex system interactions.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of paradoxes in gene-centric evolutionary theory.
- Analysis of methodological breakthroughs in genome evolution.
- Examination of interactions across different biological system levels.
Main Results:
- The genome context, including genomic topology, defines biological systems.
- The genome serves as the primary selection platform for evolution.
- Natural selection applies uniquely at the biological level, not directly to non-living or societal levels.
Conclusions:
- A genome-centric concept offers a robust framework for understanding evolution.
- Interactions within complex biological systems are key to self-organization and natural selection.
- Shifting focus from individual genes to genome context resolves current theoretical roadblocks.
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