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Patterning and post-patterning modes of evolutionary digit loss in mammals.

Kimberly L Cooper1, Karen E Sears2, Aysu Uygur3

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Summary

Digit reduction in mammals evolves through diverse developmental pathways. Some species use cell death to sculpt digits, while others alter early limb patterning, revealing evolutionary plasticity.

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Area of Science:

  • Developmental biology
  • Evolutionary biology
  • Comparative anatomy

Background:

  • Digit reduction is a common evolutionary adaptation in cursorial mammals.
  • The developmental mechanisms driving digit loss have been poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the developmental mechanisms underlying digit loss in various mammalian species.
  • To understand the evolutionary plasticity in limb development.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of limb development in jerboa, horse, camel, and pig.
  • Examination of cell death and gene expression patterns during chondrogenesis.

Main Results:

  • Digit loss can occur during early limb patterning or later chondrogenesis stages.
  • Jerboa, horse, and camel exhibit significant cell death for digit sculpting.
  • Pig digit loss involves early patterning changes, including Ptch1 downregulation, without increased cell death.

Conclusions:

  • Vertebrate limb evolution shows remarkable plasticity in developmental mechanisms.
  • Morphological convergence, especially in artiodactyls, involves diverse evolutionary strategies.