Major Source of Evolutionary Differences Among Species Uncovered

Summary

Some species, like humans and chimps, have almost identical sets of genes, but still behave and appear very different from each other. Scientists have recently discovered an explanation that could account for the significant differences between humans and other genetically similar vertebrate species, and why humans are more likely to get some diseases than other vertebrates. A group of scientists from the University of Toronto sequenced and compared thousands of genetic messages in the brain, heart, and liver organs of 10 different species like humans and frogs. They discovered that a process called alternative splicing,which can cause a single gene to control several proteins. It may have changed how genetic messages were sent during vertebrate evolution, creating fundamental differences between species. Also, alternative splicing could help scientists figure out why humans are more susceptible to diseases like Alzheimer's and certain types of cancer and develop more effective methods for treating these diseases. It could show how humans are unique from other closely related vertebrates.

 

Relevance

This article connects to what we have learned about genetics and evolution. In genetics, we have learned about the One Gene, One Polypeptide concept, and this shows how sometimes one gene can control the production of multiple proteins instead of one. Also, this article relates to evolution since we have been discussing how mutations in DNA create variation among a population. In the article, alternative splicing causes mutatations that can be passed to offspring. Eventually, the population can evolve into two different species, like humans and chimps.

 

Source

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/12/121220144124.htm