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Repeated Evolution of Asexuality Involves Convergent Gene Expression Changes.

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Molecular Biology and Evolution
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The evolution of asexual reproduction involves surprisingly similar gene expression changes across different lineages. This suggests a constrained evolutionary path, with repeated changes in the same key genes for asexual phenotypes.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Genomics
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Asexual reproduction has evolved multiple times from sexual ancestors.
  • The molecular underpinnings of this evolutionary transition are largely unknown.
  • Previous studies focused on single lineages, limiting understanding of convergent evolution.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate convergent gene expression changes across five independent transitions to asexuality in stick insects.
  • To determine if similar molecular pathways are repeatedly involved in the evolution of asexual reproduction.
  • To identify tissue-specific gene expression patterns associated with asexuality.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative gene expression analysis between asexual and sexual female stick insects.
  • Analysis across whole bodies, reproductive tracts, and legs.
  • Identification of convergent gene expression changes across independent asexual lineages.

Main Results:

  • A significant amount of convergent gene expression change (up to 8% of genes) was identified, exceeding chance expectations.
  • Convergent changes were tissue-specific, indicating distinct molecular adaptations in different tissues.
  • Genes involved in meiotic spindle formation and centrosome organization showed convergent changes in reproductive tracts, potentially affecting unreduced egg production.
  • Changes in legs and whole bodies were linked to female sexual trait decay, including sperm storage and pigmentation.

Conclusions:

  • The repeated evolution of asexuality appears to be a highly constrained process, repeatedly targeting the same key genes.
  • Convergent gene expression changes provide insights into the molecular basis of asexual phenotypes.
  • Tissue-specific molecular adaptations underlie the evolution of asexuality and the decay of sexual traits.