Summary
Changes in the regulation of conserved toolkit genes explain how new body forms emerge.
In depth
Examples: snake limb loss via changes in Hox and Shh regulatory regions, bat wing from altered BMP signalling and Fgf8, cichlid jaw changes. Regulatory evolution preserves essential gene function while changing where genes act.
Modular regulatory elements allow changes in one body part without affecting others. Gene regulatory network rewiring explains novelties like butterfly eyespots.
Key idea: evolution often tweaks when and where genes act rather than inventing new genes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Evo-Devo of Body Plans?
Changes in the regulation of conserved toolkit genes explain how new body forms emerge.
Which area of biology covers Evo-Devo of Body Plans, and how advanced is it?
Evo-Devo of Body Plans is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks, Spemann Organiser, Wnt Signalling.
Can you give an example of Evo-Devo of Body Plans?
Stickleback pelvic reduction came from deletion of a Pitx1 enhancer.
What should I learn before Evo-Devo of Body Plans?
Work through the Beginner topics in Developmental Biology first, such as Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo, then return to Evo-Devo of Body Plans. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Evo-Devo of Body Plans?
The closest topics to Evo-Devo of Body Plans are Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks, Spemann Organiser, Wnt Signalling, Hox Genes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Evo-Devo of Body Plans?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Evo-Devo of Body Plans. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is Evo-Devo of Body Plans different from Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks?
Evo-Devo of Body Plans: Changes in the regulation of conserved toolkit genes explain how new body forms emerge. Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks: Logic circuits of transcription factors and enhancers that specify cell states in the embryo. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Evo-Devo of Body Plans step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Developmental Gene Regulatory Networks and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.