Evolutionary origin of bioluminescence in the ostracod Vargula tsujii and the integration of conserved secretory genes with novel biochemical pathways to produce light-producing signals.
- The paper explores the evolutionary origin of bioluminescence in the ostracod Vargula tsujii.
- Bioluminescence is an ecologically impactful innovation that has evolved convergently multiple times to influence predator-prey interactions and courtship signals.
- The study finds that the evolutionary novel c-luciferase gene is co-expressed with conserved genes related to toxin production and high-output protein secretion.
- This suggests that the "legacy-plus-innovation" mode of secretory evolution, previously applied to sensory modalities, also encompasses bioluminescent light as an important medium of ecological interaction and evolutionary innovation.
- The study contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary origins of bioluminescence and its significance in ecological interactions.
Key points:
- Bioluminescence has evolved convergently multiple times to influence predator-prey interactions and courtship signals.
- The evolutionary novel c-luciferase gene is co-expressed with conserved genes related to toxin production and high-output protein secretion.
- The "legacy-plus-innovation" mode of secretory evolution applies to bioluminescent secretions.
- The study has implications for our understanding of ecological interactions and evolutionary innovation.
