International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 162-173 http://ecoevopublisher.com/index.php/ijmeb 162 Research Insight Open Access Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Mammalian Trait Evolution Jing He, Jun Li Animal Science Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding author: lijun@cuixi.org International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity, 2024, Vol.14, No.4 doi: 10.5376/ijmeb.2024.14.0018 Received: 07 Jun., 2024 Accepted: 15 Jul., 2024 Published: 21 Jul., 2024 Copyright © 2024 He and Li, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: He J., and Li J., 2024, Molecular mechanisms underlying mammalian trait evolution, International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity, 14(4): 162-173 (doi: 10.5376/ijmeb.2024.14.0018) Abstract This study systematically reviews the molecular mechanisms underlying mammalian trait evolution, revealing the significant roles of genetic mutations, natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and epigenetic modifications in trait evolution. It delves into the roles of genomic innovations such as transcription factors and their regulatory networks, non-coding RNAs, differential gene expression, gene duplication and divergence, horizontal gene transfer, genome rearrangements, as well as key molecular pathways such as signaling pathways, metabolic pathways, and sensory adaptation-related pathways. Through case studies on the evolution of fur and skin pigmentation, mammalian teeth and dietary adaptations, and reproductive strategies and mechanisms, the concrete manifestations of genomic innovation and environmental adaptation in trait evolution are demonstrated. The study also discusses the application of high-throughput sequencing technologies, comparative genomics and phylogenetics, functional genomics, and gene editing technologies (such as CRISPR/Cas9) in evolutionary research, emphasizing the impact of the environment on gene expression and trait evolution. These findings provide profound insights into evolutionary biology and related fields. Keywords Mammals; Trait evolution; Molecular mechanisms; Gene regulation; Epigenetics 1 Introduction Mammalian trait evolution encompasses a wide array of complex characteristics, including behaviors, physiological adaptations, and morphological changes. These traits have evolved through intricate genetic and molecular mechanisms, often in response to environmental pressures and ecological niches. For instance, the transition of mammalian species to marine environments has led to convergent evolution in traits such as muscle physiology and sensory systems, driven by parallel shifts in evolutionary rates of specific genes (Foote et al., 2015; Chikina et al., 2016). Similarly, the evolution of longevity in mammals has been linked to genetic changes in pathways related to cell cycle, DNA repair, and immunity, highlighting the role of molecular constraints in shaping lifespan traits (Kowalczyk et al., 2020). Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying mammalian trait evolution is crucial. It provides insights into the genetic basis of adaptation and the connection between genotype and phenotype (Pardo-Díaz et al., 2015). This knowledge can elucidate how specific genetic changes contribute to the development of complex traits, such as the cognitive abilities observed in certain fish species, which may offer parallels to mammalian brain evolution (Schartl et al., 2013). Additionally, identifying the molecular events that drive phenotypic changes can inform our understanding of human-specific traits and their evolutionary origins, as seen in the loss of regulatory DNA sequences that correlate with unique human anatomical features (McLean et al., 2011). Moreover, a comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms can aid in predicting evolutionary responses to environmental changes and in identifying potential targets for medical and conservation efforts. This study is to synthesize current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms driving the evolution of mammalian traits. By integrating findings from various studies, this study aims to identify common genetic pathways and molecular events that have contributed to the diversification of mammalian species. We desire to uncover patterns of positive selection, gene duplication, and regulatory changes that have facilitated the adaptation of mammals to diverse environments and lifestyles. Through this comprehensive analysis, the study excepts to provide a cohesive understanding of how molecular changes drive phenotypic evolution in mammals, offering insights that are both scientifically valuable and practically relevant.
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