Pix Proteins and the Evolution of Centrioles
Author Information
Author(s): Woodland Hugh R., Fry Andrew M.
Primary Institution: Department of Biological Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
The key function of Pix proteins and centrioles is to make cilia and flagella.
Conclusion
Pix proteins are essential for the formation of motile cilia and flagella, and their presence correlates with the presence of these structures across various eukaryotic organisms.
Supporting Evidence
- Pix proteins are found across a vast range of eukaryotes, but are absent from some.
- Where centrioles are absent, so are Pix proteins.
- Pix proteins have become generally divergent within Ecdysozoa, correlating with a simplification of centrioles.
Takeaway
Pix proteins help make tiny hair-like structures called cilia and flagella that help cells move. If a cell doesn't have these structures, it doesn't need Pix proteins.
Methodology
A phylogenomic approach was used to analyze the presence and structure of Pix proteins across a wide range of eukaryotes.
Limitations
The study may not cover all eukaryotic organisms, and some findings are based on existing published information.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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