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[Pangenesis, genes, epigenesis].
Fernanda Gonçalves Arcanjo1, Edson Pereira Silva2
1Mestranda, Programa de Pós-graduação em História das Ciências e das Técnicas e Epistemologia/Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; pesquisadora, Laboratório de Genética Marinha e Evolução/Departamento de Biologia Marinha/ Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF). Outeiro São João Batista, s.n. 24001-970 - Niterói - RJ - Brasil fgarcanjo@gmail.com.
Historia, Ciencias, Saude--Manguinhos
|October 12, 2017
Summary
Charles Darwin's 1868 pangenesis theory, emphasizing development in heredity, is reassessed. Its historical value is confirmed, with echoes in modern evolutionary biology of development (evo-devo) and epigenetics.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Genetics
- Developmental biology
Context:
- Charles Darwin's 1868 work, "The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication," introduced the theory of pangenesis.
- Darwin's theory posited that development was crucial for understanding heredity and evolution.
- This article examines the historical context and relevance of Darwin's pangenesis theory.
Purpose:
- To reassess the Darwinian theory of pangenesis.
- To evaluate its historical significance and scientific value.
- To explore its connections to contemporary research fields.
Summary:
- The article concludes that Darwin's theory of pangenesis was highly relevant for its time.
- It highlights the theory's foundational role in early concepts of heredity.
- Modern scientific fields like evolutionary biology of development (evo-devo) and epigenetics show conceptual parallels to pangenesis.
Impact:
- Recontextualizes Darwin's pangenesis theory within the history of evolutionary thought.
- Demonstrates the enduring influence of Darwin's ideas on modern biological sciences.
- Provides a historical perspective on the development of concepts in evo-devo and epigenetics.
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