Salmon Genome Duplication 100M Years Ago
A whole-genome duplication event in the ancestor of salmonids has provided a unique window into how evolution unfolds after such an event, with 800 high-quality sequencing datasets generated
A whole-genome duplication event occurred in the ancestor of salmonids around 100 million years ago, shaping the evolution of the salmon family. This event, where an organism's full genetic sequence is 'copy-pasted', resulted in two copies of the entire genome.
The study, which generated close to 800 high-quality sequencing datasets and 80 billion pairs of DNA sequences, has provided a rare opportunity to study the processes of evolution after DNA doubling. The AQUA-FAANG project, a €6 million EU-funded collaboration involving many research organizations and industry partners across Europe, has made this research possible.
Whole-genome duplication (WGD) events have occurred at key stages of evolution, including in the ancestor of all living vertebrates more than 500 million years ago. However, when these events are so ancient, it's difficult for scientists to uncover many details about how WGD shaped evolution. The salmonid family, which includes Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout, offers a unique window into how evolution unfolds after WGD.
The extra gene copies created by WGD may take on new roles, changing how or when they are expressed, and providing evolution with more genetic material to work with. With duplicate gene copies available, evolution can edit or repurpose some sections of the genome while preserving others, creating opportunities for traits to evolve.
## Why it matters The study of WGD in salmonids is significant because it provides a clearer understanding of how evolution unfolds after such an event. The retention, loss, or repurposing of duplicated genes can lead to changes in traits such as disease resistance or reproduction. By studying the genomes of salmonids, scientists can gain insights into the processes that shape the evolution of vertebrates.
The research has implications for our understanding of evolution and how it is driven by changes in DNA. By analyzing the genomes of salmonids, scientists can identify patterns and processes that can inform our understanding of evolution in other organisms. The study of WGD in salmonids is an important step towards understanding the complex and dynamic process of evolution.
