Evolution of Lbx Genes in Bony Vertebrates
Author Information
Author(s): Wotton Karl R, Weierud Frida K, Dietrich Susanne, Lewis Katharine E
Primary Institution: King's College London, Department of Craniofacial Development
Hypothesis
Which Lbx genes were maintained in extant vertebrates, and how these genes and their functions evolved, is not known.
Conclusion
The study establishes the evolutionary history of Lbx genes in bony vertebrates, showing that only Lbx1 and Lbx2 genes were retained, with some Lbx2 genes being highly divergent.
Supporting Evidence
- Lbx genes have essential roles in development, including crucial functions in neural and mesodermal cell specification.
- Phylogenetic analyses show that in extant, bony vertebrates only Lbx1- and Lbx2-type genes are maintained.
- Some Lbx2 sequences evolved faster and were probably subject to neofunctionalisation.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at Lbx genes in different animals to see how they changed over time. They found that only two types of these genes are still around in bony fish and other vertebrates.
Methodology
The study used bioinformatics approaches to characterize the organization of Lbx loci in extant osteichthyan vertebrates and determined the relationship of Lbx genes and genes associated with Lbx loci.
Limitations
The study relies on genomic data, which may be incomplete for some species.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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