Evolution of UCP1 and Non-Shivering Thermogenesis in Mammals
Author Information
Author(s): Hughes David A, Jastroch Martin, Stoneking Mark, Klingenspor Martin
Primary Institution: Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology
Hypothesis
This study aims to determine the evolutionary mode of UCP1 in Eutherians, where there is clear evidence of UCP1-dependent non-shivering thermogenesis (NST) in brown adipose tissue.
Conclusion
The unique thermogenic function of UCP1 in Eutherians may be best explained by neutral processes, suggesting that the primary biochemical properties of UCP1 may not differ between Eutherians and non-Eutherians.
Supporting Evidence
- UCP1 is essential for non-shivering thermogenesis in Eutherians.
- An increase in the rate of amino acid substitutions on the branch leading to Eutherians was observed.
- Evidence for branch and site heterogeneity in selection pressures was found.
Takeaway
This study looks at how a protein called UCP1 has changed over time in mammals, especially in how it helps them stay warm without shivering.
Methodology
Phylogenetic analysis of amino acid sequences by maximum likelihood was used to determine the mode of UCP1 protein evolution in Eutherians.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in alignment methods could affect the results.
Limitations
The study's conclusions are based on models that may not account for all variations in selection pressures.
Participant Demographics
The study analyzed UCP1 sequences from 39 species ranging from teleost fishes to mammals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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