Dorsoventral Patterning in Hemichordates: Insights into Early Chordate Evolution
2006
Unique Development in Hemichordates Suggests Some Unique Features of Chordates
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Christopher Lowe, John Gerhart, Marc Kirschner
Hypothesis
How do hemichordates utilize Bmp and Chordin in their development compared to chordates and arthropods?
Conclusion
The study reveals that hemichordates use Bmp and Chordin differently than chordates and arthropods, suggesting independent evolution of nervous system centralization.
Supporting Evidence
- The hemichordate Saccoglossus kowalevskii uses Bmp and Chordin to establish its dorsal-ventral axis.
- The first phase of neurogenesis in hemichordates does not respond to Bmp–Chordin concentration changes.
- The study suggests that the nervous system centralization in chordates and arthropods evolved independently.
Takeaway
This study shows that hemichordates develop their nervous system in a unique way that is different from both chordates and arthropods, which helps us understand how these animals evolved.
Methodology
The authors examined gene expression patterns in hemichordate embryos in response to Bmp and Chordin.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website