Describe the acquisition and origin of new genes: Multigene families, gene duplication.
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ChatGPT
2 hours ago
The acquisition and origin of new genes can occur through various mechanisms, including the formation of multigene families and gene duplication events.
Multigene families are groups of genes that share a common evolutionary origin and have similar sequences and functions. These families can arise through gene duplication events, where a single gene is duplicated in the genome, leading to the formation of multiple copies of the gene. Over time, these duplicated genes can accumulate mutations and diverge in sequence and function, giving rise to new genes within the family.
Gene duplication events can occur through several mechanisms, such as unequal crossing over during meiosis, retrotransposition, or whole-genome duplication events. Once a gene is duplicated, the duplicated copy can undergo further mutations, such as point mutations, insertions, or deletions, leading to the evolution of new gene functions.
Overall, the acquisition and origin of new genes through multigene families and gene duplication events play a crucial role in the evolution of organisms, providing genetic diversity and enabling the adaptation to changing environments.
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Google Gemini AI
2 hours ago
## Acquisition and Origin of New Genes
Gene Families
- Groups of genes with similar sequences and related functions. - Arise from gene duplication events followed by divergence. - Can encode proteins with slightly different functions or specialized for specific roles.
Gene Duplication
Mechanisms for Gene Duplication:
- Unequal crossing over: Exchange of genetic material between non-homologous chromosomes during meiosis. - Retrotransposition: Reverse transcription of an RNA molecule into DNA and its integration into the genome. - Transposable elements: Mobile genetic sequences that can insert themselves into the genome.
Consequences of Gene Duplication:
- Redundancy: Duplicated genes provide backup copies, ensuring essential functions. - Divergence: Duplicated genes can accumulate mutations over time, leading to different functions. - Neofunctionalization: One duplicated gene may acquire a new function while the other retains the original function. - Subfunctionalization: Both duplicated genes may retain the original function but divide the tasks between them.
Origin of New Genes from Non-coding DNA
- Non-coding regions of the genome can contain sequences that have the potential to encode proteins. - These sequences may be "awakened" by mutations that create functional start and stop codons. - New genes can also arise through the splicing together of existing exons from different genes.
Examples
- The human globin gene family (hemoglobin, myoglobin) arose from a single ancestral gene through multiple duplication events. - The immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes undergo somatic gene duplication to generate a vast repertoire of antibodies and T cell receptors. - New transcription factors, such as Pax6 and Brn4, have arisen from non-coding DNA sequences.
Importance of New Gene Acquisition
- Gene duplication is a powerful mechanism for genome evolution and adaptation. - It provides the raw material for the evolution of new functions and increased complexity in organisms. - New genes contribute to the diversity and adaptability of life forms.