On the evolutionary origin of discrete phenotypic plasticity

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Developmental biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Phenotypic plasticity is key for adaptation but its genetic basis is unclear.
• Discrete phenotypic plasticity is challenging for quantitative genetic models to explain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the evolutionary acquisition of phenotypic plasticity using a gene regulatory network (GRN) model.
• To investigate the emergence of discrete phenotypic plasticity within a population genetic framework.

Main Methods:

• Developed a simple GRN model integrated with a population genetic framework.
• Simulated a species with a sensor gene adapting to two distinct environments.
• Incorporated developmental processes where phenotype develops post-genotype.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated adaptation through the acquisition of two distinct optimal phenotypes without genotypic change.
• Observed the emergence of discrete phenotypic plasticity after prolonged evolution.
• Highlighted the capacity of GRNs to generate diverse phenotypes in response to environmental shifts.

Conclusions:

• GRNs provide a mechanism for evolving discrete phenotypic plasticity.
• Mechanistic developmental models offer insights distinct from traditional quantitative genetics.
• Integrating GRNs into evolutionary models is valuable for understanding phenotypic evolution.