The Evolution of Limbs: How Ancient Genes for Reproduction Were Recycled to Form Fingers
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: General Science (Biology - Evolution, Genetics, Hox Genes).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (S&T): Awareness in the fields of Bio-technology. This discovery is a classic example of fundamental research in evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo), which has long-term implications.
Key Highlights from the News
The transition from fins to limbs in aquatic animals to walk on land is a significant event in evolutionary history.
A new scientific study finds that the genetic mechanism that helps form fingers in limbs was originally used to construct parts of the cloacal tissues (reproductive and excretory organs) in fish. 🧬
This means that evolution "recycled" (recycling existing components to serve new purposes) an existing genetic component for a new purpose. This phenomenon is called Exaptation.
This discovery was made through a study on DNA segments that control a group of genes called Hox genes in zebrafish.
This study answers scientists' long-standing questions about how these genes, found in both fish and humans, form different organs.
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