The genetics of phenotypic plasticity in nematode feeding structures

Autor: Ralf J. Sommer, Mohannad Dardiry, Masa Lenuzzi, Suryesh Namdeo, Tess Renahan, Bogdan Sieriebriennikov, Michael S. Werner
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2017
Předmět:
Zdroj: Open Biology, Vol 7, Iss 3 (2017)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2046-2441
DOI: 10.1098/rsob.160332
Popis: Phenotypic plasticity has been proposed as an ecological and evolutionary concept. Ecologically, it can help study how genes and the environment interact to produce robust phenotypes. Evolutionarily, as a facilitator it might contribute to phenotypic novelty and diversification. However, the discussion of phenotypic plasticity remains contentious in parts due to the absence of model systems and rigorous genetic studies. Here, we summarize recent work on the nematode Pristionchus pacificus, which exhibits a feeding plasticity allowing predatory or bacteriovorous feeding. We show feeding plasticity to be controlled by developmental switch genes that are themselves under epigenetic control. Phylogenetic and comparative studies support phenotypic plasticity and its role as a facilitator of morphological novelty and diversity.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals