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The coordinated expression, interaction and evolution of the neuroendocrine genes
1Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry-605 014, India. basant68@email.com
Integrative Biology : Quantitative Biosciences From Nano to Macro
|September 20, 2012
Summary
Neuroendocrine genes evolve cohesively, revealing natural selection
Area of Science:
- Genomics and Evolutionary Biology
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- The neuroendocrine system regulates physiological functions via neuropeptides and hormones.
- Understanding the genomic basis of neuroendocrine system evolution is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the evolution, network properties, and expression profiles of neuroendocrine genes.
- To investigate the role of natural selection in shaping the neuroendocrine system at the genomic level.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of gene expression profiles and local network properties.
- Correlated evolution, relative-rate tests, relative-ratio tests, and codon usage bias analysis.
- Examination of 10 key neuroendocrine genes in mammalian reproduction and homeostasis.
Main Results:
- Neuroendocrine genes exhibit conserved expression profiles and network properties across tissues.
- Coordinated evolution of 10 neuroendocrine genes involved in reproduction and homeostasis was demonstrated.
- Genes predominantly evolve under similar purifying selection, indicating strong natural selection.
Conclusions:
- Natural selection plays a key role in creating and maintaining the neuroendocrine system at the genomic level.
- System properties at physiological scales may influence genomic-scale component properties, and vice versa.
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