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The origin of Hox genes in early animal evolution: a basis for the evolution of germ layer patterning ?
Reference
G09218
Principal Investigator / Supervisor
Professor Peter Holland
Co-Investigators /
Co-Supervisors
Institution
University of Reading
Department
Animal and Microbial Sciences
Funding type
Research
Value (£)
179,448
Status
Completed
Type
Research Grant
Start date
01/01/1999
End date
01/01/2002
Duration
36 months
Abstract
Why did all major phyla of triploblasts (animals with ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm) arise relatively suddenly in evolution? From current data, I hypothesise that sets of genes that pattern distinct germ layers arose by duplication of a PreHox gene cluster in basal bilateral Metazoa. I hypothesise that one descendent cluster became the well-known Hox cluster, with primary roles in patterning ectoderm and mesoderm; the other descendent is a recently discovered sister or ParaHox gene cluster, with comparable roles in endoderm. These twin clusters allowed independent patterning of germ layers, and ultimately evolution of burrowing, swimming and predation. The hypothesis will be tested and refined by cloning of Hox, ParaHox and PreHox-like genes in invertebrate taxa occupying key phylogenetic positions: appendicularians, catenulids, mesozoa and cnidarians.
Summary
unavailable
Committee
Closed Committee - Genes & Developmental Biology (GDB)
Research Topics
X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority
X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative
X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme
X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme
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