Long-Distance Gene Control Appeared Over 650 Million Years Ago, Study Suggests

 


A recent study led by Dr. Roberto Feuda from the University of Leicester has uncovered that genes essential for complex behaviors—such as learning, memory, aggression, and other cognitive functions—originated approximately 650 million years ago. This discovery provides new insights into the evolutionary origins of the monoaminergic system, which involves neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline .

The research utilized advanced computational methods to reconstruct the evolutionary history of genes responsible for the production, detection, and degradation of these monoamines. The findings suggest that these genes emerged in the bilaterian stem group—a lineage of animals exhibiting bilateral symmetry . This innovation likely played a pivotal role in the Cambrian Explosion, a period of rapid diversification of life forms on Earth, by enhancing the flexibility of neural circuits and facilitating more complex interactions with the environment .

This study not only sheds light on the ancient origins of complex behaviors but also opens new avenues for research into how these foundational genetic systems have influenced the evolution of cognition and behavior across different species.

#GeneRegulation
#Epigenetics
#Genomics
#EvolutionaryBiology
#MolecularBiology
#AncientGenes
#GeneExpression
#Neurogenetics
#CambrianExplosion
#MonoaminergicSystem

World Cell Biologist Awards: 


Website Link : cellbiologist.org

Follow Us On : 
Tumblr ; tumblr.ccom/

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases in Andhra Pradesh

Image
  Recently, the state of Andhra Pradesh has witnessed a rise in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, prompting government action. The Chief Minister has ordered an investigation into the outbreak. Earlier this year, Maharashtra also reported rising cases of GBS. About Guillain-Barré Syndrome Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. GBS is characterised by muscle weakness and paralysis. It typically starts with weakness, tingling, or numbness in the limbs. Symptoms can progress rapidly, leading to paralysis that may last from six months to a year. The syndrome affects nerves responsible for muscle movement and sensation. While it can occur at any age, it is more common in adult males. Causes and Triggers The exact cause of GBS remains unknown. However, it often follows infections, either bacterial or viral. The immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s nerves after such infections. Some rare cases have been linked to va...
Read more

Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas

Image
  The Indian Institute of Technology Madras recently launched the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA). This initiative aims to enhance cancer research in India. It addresses the under-representation of Indian genetic data in global cancer studies. The launch comes ahead of World Cancer Day and marks the increasing cancer incidence in the country. Overview of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas The BCGA is a comprehensive database of genetic variants linked to breast cancer in India. It collects data from breast cancer patients across the country. The goal is to identify specific biomarkers for early detection and develop targeted treatment strategies. Significance of the Initiative This initiative is crucial for understanding the unique genetic landscape of Indian cancers. The database will aid in the identification of cancer-specific biomarkers. It will also facilitate the development of diagnostic kits and targeted therapies tailored to the Indian population. Research and Collaboration...
Read more

New Study Reveals Dire State of Global Fish Stocks

Image
  A recent study published in the journal Science has found that global fish populations are facing more serious problems than we previously thought, with more fish stocks being overfished or in danger of collapse. Key Findings The study shows that current fishing practices are taking more fish than can naturally be replenished, mainly due to both local and large-scale industrial fishing. Researchers looked at data from 230 different fish stocks and discovered that past reports had overestimated how many fish were available and how quickly they could recover. Issues with Catch Limits Policymakers set limits on how many fish can be caught based on scientific advice to prevent overfishing. However, these limits have often been set too high, which has resulted in nearly one-third of fish stocks labeled as “sustainably fished” by the FAO actually being overfished. What is “Phantom Recoveries”? The study also found cases of “phantom recoveries,” where fish populations appeared to be doi...
Read more