Evolutionary analysis of genes associated with the sense of balance in semi-aquatic mammals.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Semi-aquatic mammals represent a transitional phase in the evolutionary spectrum between terrestrial and aquatic mammals. The sense of balance is crucial for mammalian locomotion, and in semi-aquatic mammals, the structural foundation of this sense (the vestibular system) shows distinct morphological adaptations to both aquatic and terrestrial environments compared to their terrestrial counterparts. Despite this, the precise molecular mechanisms driving these adaptations remain elusive. Our study endeavors to unravel the genetic components associated with the sense of balance in semi-aquatic mammals and to examine the evolutionary trajectories of these genes, shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptive evolution of balance perception in semi-aquatic ma

SUBMITTER: Dong Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11721335 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature