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Comparative Hox genes expression within the dimorphic annelid Streblospio benedicti reveals patterning variation
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|January 8, 2024
Summary
Hox gene expression in the marine annelid Streblospio benedicti shows similarities but also key differences between two offspring types. These variations in Hox gene patterns correlate with distinct larval morphology and life histories, offering insights into evolutionary body plan changes.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Hox genes are crucial transcriptional regulators defining anterior-posterior positional identity in Metazoans.
- Their evolutionary conservation is evident across species, yet lineage-specific gains and losses contribute to morphological novelty.
- Understanding Hox gene dynamics within a species can illuminate mechanisms of body plan evolution.
Conclusions:
- Developmental divergence in Hox gene expression within a single species can occur.
- These within-species variations in Hox gene regulation are linked to the evolution of distinct larval body plans.
- This study offers a novel perspective on how morphological differences arise during larval evolution.
