Diversification and Molecular Evolution of ATOH8, a Gene Encoding a bHLH Transcription Factor Interspecies Comparison of ATOH8 Gene
2011

Evolution and Diversification of the ATOH8 Gene

Sample size: 42 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Chen Jingchen, Dai Fangping, Balakrishnan-Renuka Ajeesh, Leese Florian, Schempp Werner, Schaller Felix, Hoffmann Michael M., Morosan-Puopolo Gabriela, Yusuf Faisal, Bisschoff Izak Johannes, Chankiewitz Verena, Xue Jinglun, Chen Jingzhong, Ying Kang, Brand-Saberi Beate

Primary Institution: Ruhr-University of Bochum

Hypothesis

Is the function and regulation of expression of ATOH8 conserved across different evolutionary lineages?

Conclusion

The ATOH8 gene shows significant evolutionary diversification, which may contribute to its varied functions in different tissues and organisms.

Supporting Evidence

  • ATOH8 is a bHLH domain transcription factor involved in various developmental processes.
  • The gene structure of ATOH8 varies among vertebrates, with some species showing unique features.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicates significant sequence divergence of ATOH8 across species.
  • Regulatory elements of ATOH8 differ between mammals and non-mammals, indicating evolutionary changes in gene regulation.

Takeaway

Scientists studied a gene called ATOH8 in many animals to see how it has changed over time. They found that this gene is important for different jobs in different animals.

Methodology

The study involved collecting ATOH8 sequences from various vertebrate and invertebrate species, analyzing their phylogeny, and examining gene structure and regulatory elements.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on a limited number of species and may not capture the full extent of ATOH8 diversity across all taxa.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0023005

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