Evolution of the Mammalian Lysozyme Gene Family
Author Information
Author(s): Irwin David M, Biegel Jason M, Stewart Caro-Beth
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
The mammalian lysozyme gene family is larger than previously known and contains at least eight distinct genes.
Conclusion
The mammalian lysozyme gene family is much larger than previously appreciated and consists of at least eight distinct genes scattered around the genome.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified at least nine annotated lysozyme-like genes in the human genome.
- Phylogenetic analyses suggested that most lineages of mammals have eight different types of lysozyme-like genes.
- Gene duplications that gave rise to these genes are likely ancient.
Takeaway
Scientists found that there are more types of lysozyme genes in mammals than they thought, which might help us understand how these genes work in different ways.
Methodology
The study involved extensive similarity searches of the human and other vertebrate genomes, phylogenetic analyses, and genomic neighborhood analyses.
Limitations
Some genes identified were only partial sequences due to incomplete genomes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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