Part 2: How Does New Genetic Information Evolve? Gene Duplications

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In our first animation of thiswe learned how point mutations can edit genetic information. Here we see how duplication events can dramatically lengthen the genetic code of an individual. As point mutations add up in the duplicated region across generations, entirely new genes with new functions can evolve.\r
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In the video we see three examples of gene duplications resulting in new traits for the creatures who inherit them: the evolution of a venom gene in snakes, the evolution of leaf digestion genes in monkeys, and the evolution of burrowing legs in hunting dogs. \r
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Learn more on our website at \r
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SCIENCE ADVISORS:\r
Jianzhi George Zhang, PhD\r
Joanna Masel, PhD\r
Kini R Manjunatha, PhD\r
Nicholas Casewell, PhD\r
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SPONSOR:\r
This video was sponsored in part by Gene-Tools LLC, a company producing molecules used to study cancer and gene function. If your lab studies genetics, cancer, or developmental biology, make sure to check them out at \r
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NOTES:\r
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How do new genes evolve?\r
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Read about the many different ways in which entirely new genes come into existence: \r
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Observed gene duplications In Beria\r
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Here, gene duplication was directly observed from generation to generation. After duplication, a new function was seen to evolve.\r
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Observed or inferred gene duplications In mice\r
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Here, genetically identical mice were allowed to breed for several generations and then gene number variations were compared in the final populations.\r
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Here, gene number variations were compared among populations of wild mice.\r
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For X Snake venom evolution\r
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For X is what its called in the blood. \r
Trocarin D is what its called in the venom gland.\r
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Snake venom is modified saliva\r
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The venom gland is derived from what are called “Dental Glands” which are found in reptiles and produce oral secretions like our saliva glands. In particular, the venom gland appears to be homologous to the Duvernoys gland in non-venomous snakes. Little research has been done on the function of Duvernoys glands in non-venomous snakes but in most species, its secretions appear to be used as lubrication to aid in swallowing. Enzymes are also produced that may aid in killing, paralyzing, and digesting prey but these functions appear to be limited in their power and are only found in certain species. \r
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How do blood clots form?\r
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Read an overview of how the blood clotting cascade functions and may have evolved:\r
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Watch a cool 3D animation showing how For X inters with other molecules and structures in the blood to form clots!\r