On the evolutionary origin of discrete phenotypic plasticity.

ABSTRACT: Phenotypic plasticity provides an attractive strategy for adapting to various environments, but the evolutionary mechanism of the underlying genetic system is poorly understood. We use a simple gene regulatory network model to explore how a species acquires phenotypic plasticity, particularly focusing on discrete phenotypic plasticity, which has been difficult to explain by quantitative genetic models. Our approach employs a population genetic framework that integrates the developmental process, where each individual undergoes growth to develop its phenotype, which subsequently becomes subject to selection pressures. Our model considers two alternative types of environments, with the gene regulatory network including a sensor gene that turns on and off depending on the type of environment.

SUBMITTER: Sakamoto T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11373660 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature